Organizing your kitchen drawers is essential for a functional and efficient cooking space. Stephanie Howley, a designer and director of kitchen design, shares her expert advice on how to keep your cooking essentials in order. With her 12 clever and practical tips, you’ll be able to easily find everything you need when preparing meals.
One of the first steps in organizing your kitchen drawers is to consider the type of cooking essentials you have. Whether it’s cutlery, utensils, spice jars, baking dishes, or cookware, each item requires a specific approach for storing it properly.
If you’re left-handed, it’s best to organize your drawers in a way that works for you. Consider placing your knife block and utensil holder on the left side of the countertop, ensuring easy access to these items while cooking. This will make chopping and using utensils much more convenient.
When organizing your kitchen drawers, it’s important to think about the most practical and efficient placement for each item. For example, store your glassware next to the sink or dishwasher for easy clean-up, and consider keeping frequently used utensils in a top drawer for quick access.
One clever way to organize your cooking essentials is to use vertical dividers inside your drawers. This design allows you to store items of different heights without them getting mixed up or cluttered. For example, you can use vertical dividers to separate your spice jars, making it easy to find the ones you need.
Another essential tip is to clearly label your drawers. This will help you quickly locate the items you need, especially when you have guests helping in the kitchen or want to delegate tasks. Additionally, labeling your drawers creates a visually clean and organized space.
Investing in drawer organizers is definitely worth the planning. These organizers come in various sizes and layouts, allowing you to create custom storage solutions for your specific needs. By using drawer dividers and inserts, you can maximize the space in your drawers and keep everything tidy.
Remember to consider the height of your items when placing them in the drawers. For example, keep your most frequently used cooking utensils at a height that is easy to access, and store less frequently used items at the bottom. This way, you won’t have to rummage through the drawers to find what you’re looking for.
Overall, organizing your kitchen drawers is a simple yet effective way to keep your cooking essentials orderly. By following these 12 tips from Stephanie Howley, you’ll be able to create a clean and efficient cooking space that makes meal preparation a breeze.
Organize kitchen drawers
Kitchen drawers are essential for keeping all your cooking essentials organized and easily accessible. By organizing your kitchen drawers, you can save time and effort when preparing meals.
Declutter and clean
The first step to organizing kitchen drawers is to declutter and clean them. Remove any items that you no longer use or need, and wipe down the drawers to remove any dust or dirt. This will give you a fresh and tidy starting point.
Categorize items
To keep your kitchen drawers well-organized, categorize your items. Place similar items together, such as utensils, cutlery, spice jars, and batteries. This will make it easier to find what you need quickly while cooking.
Invest in drawer dividers
Drawer dividers are a great solution for keeping your items separated and organized. You can use dividers to create sections for different types of utensils, or to divide your drawers into smaller compartments for better organization.
Consider drawer inserts
If you have deeper drawers, consider using drawer inserts to make better use of the space. Inserts can help you stack dishes, pans, or glassware neatly, and prevent them from sliding around when the drawer is opened or closed.
Locate frequently used items
When organizing your kitchen drawers, make sure to place frequently used items in easily accessible locations. For example, keep your most used utensils and cooking tools in a drawer near your stove or prep area. This will save you time and effort when you’re in the middle of cooking.
Utilize vertical space
If you’re running out of drawer space, consider utilizing vertical space by adding hooks or mounting racks inside your drawers. This can be a great way to store cutting boards, measuring cups, or other flat items that can be hung.
Label containers
If you store items in containers or jars, consider labeling them. This will help you quickly identify what’s inside, especially with items like spices or baking ingredients that may look similar.
Follow the “first in, first out” rule
When organizing your kitchen drawers, you can apply the “first in, first out” rule. This means that you should place new items behind older ones to ensure that you use them before they expire or go bad. This is particularly useful for pantry items like canned goods or dry ingredients.
By following these tips and advice, you can easily organize your kitchen drawers and create a well-organized and efficient cooking space. You’ll be able to find your cooking essentials easily and keep your kitchen looking clean and clutter-free.
1 Give yourself convenient access to regularly used items
When organizing your kitchen drawers, it’s important to consider easy access to the items you use most frequently. By keeping these regularly used items within reach, you can make your cooking experience more efficient and enjoyable.
One way to achieve convenient access is by using vertical dividers or organizers in your drawers. These dividers can help you create separate compartments for each category of items, such as utensils, cutlery, or cookware. By organizing your items vertically, you can maximize the use of the drawer’s height and ensure that everything is easily visible and accessible.
Another practical solution is to place containers or jars inside your drawers. These containers can store essential items like pens, knives, or batteries, making them easily locatable and accessible. You can even label these containers or jars to ensure that you always know where each item is stored.
Stephanie Goto, a designer and director of design at Goto Design, suggests keeping commonly used items near your work area. For example, if you frequently use a certain knife or chopping board, consider keeping them in a drawer or cabinet next to your prep area. This approach saves you time and effort by reducing the need to constantly move around the kitchen in search of your essentials.
Furthermore, decluttering your drawers can also contribute to a more organized and accessible space. Ensure that each item has its designated place and remove any unnecessary items that are taking up valuable space. This approach not only saves space but also allows you to easily find and access the items you need.
For deeper drawers, consider using drawer organizers that are specifically designed for larger items such as pans or dishes. These organizers help separate your cookware and dishes, making them easier to find and access when you need them.
Lastly, if you have open cabinets or drawers, stacking wooden or wire baskets can provide additional storage and help keep your items organized. These baskets can be used to store items like menus or other less frequently used essentials.
When organizing your kitchen drawers, think about the items you use most often and how you can arrange them in a way that maximizes convenience and accessibility. By implementing these practical and efficient solutions, you can create a well-organized kitchen space that makes cooking a breeze.
3 Think outside the cabinet
If you’re looking for the best way to organize your kitchen drawers, don’t limit yourself to just the cabinets. Consider utilizing other areas of your kitchen to maximize storage and keep your cooking essentials orderly.
A designer tip is to locate the items you use most frequently and then place them in the most accessible spots. Store essential cooking utensils, such as spatulas and tongs, near the stove for easy access. George the organization suggests storing dishes near the dishwasher or sink for easy cleanup.
If you have items that are used less frequently, consider storing them in drawers next to the stove or oven. This way, you can neatly store spice jars and other cooking essentials that may take up valuable space in your cabinets.
Invest in the best organizers for your kitchen drawers to ensure that everything is stored in a way that makes sense for your specific needs. Consider using drawer dividers to separate items and keep them organized. This can be especially helpful for cutlery or utensils, where you can easily categorize them by type or size.
Another approach is to use containers to store smaller items, such as batteries or spice jars. By using clear containers, you can easily see what you have and keep them neatly organized.
If you have a deeper drawer, consider investing in drawer blocks. These can help organize items such as knives or other cooking tools, making it easier to find what you need.
When planning your drawer organization, it’s worth considering the height of your items. For example, if you have tall items such as storage containers or jars, place them towards the back of the drawer. This way, you can easily see and access the smaller items in front.
Don’t forget about left-handed individuals. If you or someone in your household is left-handed, consider organizing the drawers in a way that suits their needs. For example, place the knife block and other essential items on the left side of the drawer, so they can easily access them.
By thinking outside the cabinet and utilizing different areas of your kitchen, you can organize your drawers in a way that works best for you. Whether you prefer a decluttering approach or a more categorize-and-store method, the key rule is to keep everything clean and organized, making it easy to find what you need when you need it.
4 Clear clutter and clean
When organizing your kitchen drawers, it’s important to start with a clean slate. Clear out everything from the drawer so you can see what you’re working with. Stephanie Howley, a designer at George & George, suggests separating items into categories such as cooking utensils, cutlery, pans, and dishes. This way, you can easily see how much of each type of item you have and which ones are worth keeping.
Once you have cleared out the clutter, give the drawer a thorough cleaning. Wipe down the inside with a damp cloth to remove any dirt or crumbs that may have accumulated. This will ensure that your essentials are stored in a clean and hygienic environment.
5 Zone drawers to suit your workspace
When it comes to organizing your kitchen, having designated zones in your drawers can make cooking and meal prep much easier. By creating specific areas for different types of items, you can quickly and efficiently find what you need while keeping everything neat and tidy.
Here are 5 zone drawer ideas to consider:
1. Cooking essentials
- Use this drawer to store frequently used cooking utensils, such as spatulas, tongs, and whisks.
- Invest in drawer organizers or dividers to keep these items separated and easy to locate.
2. Baking supplies
- Keep all your baking essentials, such as measuring cups, spoons, and oven mitts, in one drawer.
- Use smaller containers or organizers to separate and categorize different types of baking tools.
3. Spice and pantry items
- Designate a drawer for storing your collection of spices, herbs, and other pantry essentials.
- Consider using spice jar organizers or racks to keep everything visible and easily accessible.
4. Cutting and chopping tools
- Create a dedicated space for your knives, cutting boards, and other chopping tools.
- Invest in a knife block or magnetic strip to safely store and organize your knives.
5. Miscellaneous items
- Use a deeper drawer to store less frequently used items, such as batteries, pens, or other miscellaneous kitchen essentials.
- Consider using smaller containers or organizers to keep these items neatly stacked and separated.
By organizing your kitchen drawers into specific zones, you’ll be able to easily find and access the items you need, saving you time and reducing frustration while cooking. Whether you’re a left-handed chef or a right-handed cook, designing your drawers to suit your workspace is a practical and efficient way to keep your kitchen well-organized.
6 Dedicate deep drawers to pots and pans
If you have deep drawers in your kitchen, they can be the perfect space to store your pots and pans. These larger items can take up a lot of space in your cabinets and can be difficult to organize. By dedicating a deep drawer to your cookware, you can keep everything easily accessible and well-organized.
When storing pots and pans in a deep drawer, it’s important to consider the materials that they are made of. Some cookware, such as non-stick pans or glassware, can scratch easily, so it’s a good idea to invest in drawer organizers or use pan protectors to prevent any damage.
One practical way to store pots and pans is to stack them neatly inside the drawer. You can begin with larger items on the bottom and stack smaller pans on top. This will help you save space and make it easier to locate the cookware you need.
If you have deeper drawers, you can also consider using dividers or organizers to separate your pots and pans. This will allow you to categorize them by size or type, making it even easier to find the right one for your cooking needs.
Another clever solution is to store your pots and pans with the lids. You can use lid holders or mount hooks on the inside of the drawer to hang the lids. This will keep everything together and prevent any lids from getting lost.
If you have left-handed members in your household, you can also think about the placement of the drawer. Ideally, you would want the drawer to be on the side of the kitchen that is most convenient for them to access while cooking.
By dedicating a deep drawer to your pots and pans, you can create a well-organized and efficient cooking space in your kitchen. Everything will be easily accessible, allowing you to quickly locate the essential items you need for your recipes.
7 …and to chinaware
Making sure your kitchen drawers are well-organized is not just for cooking essentials. You will often need a clean and organized place to store your chinaware as well. When everything is clearly labeled and categorized, it’s much easier to locate what you need.
George Howley, the director of kitchen design at Design for Life, suggests using drawer organizers to keep your chinaware neatly separated. You can use dividers or small containers to hold plates, bowls, and mugs.
If you have a drawer that’s deep enough, you can also consider using drawer blocks or wooden organizers to store your cups and saucers. This will help prevent them from moving around and getting damaged.
When it comes to organizing your drawers, it’s worth taking the time to think about how you use your chinaware. Do you have certain items that you use for special occasions? Consider storing those on the bottom of the drawer so they don’t get in the way of your everyday essentials.
Another practical advice for chinaware organization is to keep your menus, cooking instructions, and spice jars inside the same drawer. This way, you can quickly locate everything you need when you’re cooking.
If you have a drawer big enough, you can use small containers or jars to hold your spices. This will not only keep them organized, but also ensure they stay fresh.
Organizing your chinaware will not only make it easier to locate items, but also protect them from scratches and breakages. By planning and categorizing your drawers, you can create a clean and clutter-free kitchen.
8 Divide and conquer
When it comes to organizing your kitchen drawers, one approach that can make a big difference is to divide and conquer. By making use of dividers, you can easily separate different types of items, making them easier to find and access when you need them. This method is especially useful for utensils, such as knives, as well as for storing containers and lids.
Dividers come in many different shapes and sizes, so you can choose ones that fit your specific needs. Some dividers are adjustable, allowing you to customize the size of each section to accommodate different items. Others are fixed and can be used to create permanent divisions. You can even use stackable dividers to create multiple levels within a single drawer.
When organizing your drawers using dividers, think about the items you use most often and where you want to locate them for easy access. For example, if you frequently use a specific set of knives, you may want to keep them in a drawer near your stove. On the other hand, if you have a collection of containers that you use for meal prep, it might make sense to store them in a drawer near your pantry.
One clever solution for organizing drawers is to categorize items by type. For example, you can create one section for utensils, another for cookware, and a separate section for glassware. This will help you quickly locate everything you need while also keeping your drawers clutter-free.
George Howley, an organization expert, explains that “dividing and conquering is essential when it comes to kitchen organization. By separating items into specific sections, you’ll be able to quickly find what you need and avoid the risk of items getting jumbled together.”
When planning how to divide your drawers, keep in mind any special considerations you may have. For example, if you’re left-handed, you may want to store your utensils on the left side of the drawer for easier access. Similarly, if you have wooden utensils that you don’t want to get scratched, you can use dividers to create a separate section just for them.
Investing in drawer dividers is a small but worthwhile expense for an organized kitchen. They can save you time and frustration while also maximizing the use of space in your drawers. Plus, they’re easy to install and can be adjusted or removed as needed.
So, instead of just throwing everything into your drawers, take a more organized approach by dividing and conquering. With the right dividers, you’ll be able to categorize and locate your items with ease.
9 Consider bespoke inserts – especially for spices
Dividers are essential for keeping your kitchen drawers organized. But when it comes to storing spices, you may need some custom solutions. Consider using bespoke inserts specifically designed for spices to maximize efficiency and accessibility.
Spices are pantry essentials, but they’re often the trickiest items to locate in your kitchen. With bespoke inserts, you can easily categorize and access each spice without having to dig through a jumble of containers on your countertop.
Think about the types of spices you use most frequently and how you can best organize them. A director or drawer is a great place to start. Consider using dividers made of materials like wood or plastic, which can be easily cut to fit the size of your kitchen drawers.
One rule of thumb is to separate each spice into its own container to ensure that the flavors don’t mix. You can use small jars or containers with labels to clearly identify each spice. This approach not only keeps your spices well-organized, but it also makes them easily accessible for cooking.
If you have left-handed or right-handed family members, you may want to set up separate spice drawers or sections for each person. This way, everyone can access their favorite spices without any hassle.
Another clever way to organize spices is to use wooden spice blocks. These blocks have individual slots for each spice jar, keeping them organized and preventing them from rolling around inside the drawer.
When it comes to storing spices, it’s important to keep them away from moisture, heat, and direct sunlight. So, look for a cool, dry spot inside your kitchen drawers where you can place the bespoke inserts.
Don’t forget to label your spice containers to easily identify the contents. This will save time and make your cooking process more efficient.
Bespoke inserts are not just for spices – you can use them for other items in your kitchen drawers as well. Consider using inserts for organizing cutlery, utensils, baking essentials, and even pans.
Overall, having well-organized kitchen drawers will help you locate everything you need easily and efficiently. Whether you’re storing dishes, cookware, or spices, using bespoke inserts is a great way to keep your kitchen essentials tidy and accessible.
10 Keep food storage clear
If you have a separate cabinet or pantry for food storage, it’s important to keep it clear and well-organized. Here are some practical ways to organize your food storage:
- Use clear containers: Invest in clear containers for storing grains, pasta, and other dry foods. This allows you to easily see what you have and how much you have left.
- Label everything: Label each container with the name and expiry date of the food inside. This helps you easily locate items and ensures that you use them before they expire.
- Separate different types of food: Use separate containers or shelves for different types of food, such as snacks, canned goods, and condiments. This makes it easier to find what you need and prevents things from getting mixed up.
- Keep frequently used items near the front: Store the items that you use most often near the front of the cabinet or pantry for easy access.
- Store similar items together: Group similar items together, such as baking essentials or canned goods, to make it easier to find what you need.
- Organize by expiry date: Arrange your food storage based on expiry dates. Place the items that need to be used soon at the front, and the ones with a longer shelf life at the back.
- Use containers with lids: Using containers with lids helps keep your food storage clean and prevents spills.
- Utilize the inside of cabinet doors: Attach hooks or hanging organizers to the inside of cabinet doors to hang small items such as measuring cups, spice bottles, or plastic bags.
- Use drawer dividers: If you have deep cabinets or drawers, use dividers to maximize the space and keep items organized.
- Declutter regularly: Regularly go through your food storage to remove expired or unwanted items. This not only keeps your storage area clutter-free, but also ensures that you’re only storing what you need.
By following these tips, you can keep your food storage clear and organized, making it easier to find and use your cooking essentials.
11 Organize drawers vertically
Another approach to organizing your kitchen drawers is to store items vertically. This can be especially useful for deep drawers or drawers located next to your stove.
Stephanie Howley, the director of design at Clean Design, suggests this as a solution for storing and organizing your cooking essentials. “By organizing your drawers vertically, you can easily see and access everything you need,” she explains.
When organizing your drawers vertically, keep in mind the height of the items you’ll be storing. For example, organizing your baking pans vertically will allow you to quickly find the size you need without having to search through a stack of pans.
George Glassware, a kitchen organizing expert, advises that the same rule applies to other items in your kitchen. “Consider organizing your knife drawer vertically so that you can easily see and access each knife,” he suggests. “This also applies to your pantry drawer where you can organize your spice containers vertically for easy access.”
By organizing your items vertically, you not only make your drawers more neatly organized but also save valuable countertop space. With everything at your fingertips, cooking becomes a breeze and you’ll be able to quickly find what you need.
The best part is that organizing your drawers vertically doesn’t require any complicated steps or expensive tools. Simply take a few minutes to plan out how you want to organize each drawer, and invest in drawer dividers if needed. The time and effort are definitely worth it when you discover how much easier it is to find and retrieve your cooking essentials.
12 Don’t be tempted to overfill
One of the most important rules of organizing kitchen drawers is to avoid overfilling them. It can be tempting to cram as much as possible into each drawer, especially when you have limited space. However, overfilling drawers can make it difficult to find what you need and can lead to a disorganized mess.
Stephanie Howley, an organizing expert, explains that it’s essential to design your drawers in a way that allows everything to fit neatly and be easily accessible. This means not trying to squeeze too many items into one drawer.
When organizing your kitchen drawers, it’s a good idea to declutter and separate items into categories. For example, you can have separate drawers for cooking essentials like utensils, spices, and baking dishes. This not only makes it easier to find what you need, but it also ensures that your drawers remain organized.
One way to prevent overfilling drawers is by using dividers or containers. You can use dividers to separate utensils or containers to store spices and other small items. This helps to keep each item in its own designated space, making it easier to find and access.
George, an organizing enthusiast, suggests using vertical organizers for storing dishes and glassware. This allows you to stack dishes neatly and save valuable drawer space. If you have a lot of jars or containers, you can also use a lazy Susan or a turntable to easily access items in the back.
When it comes to organizing your pantry drawers, Stephanie advises a similar approach. Keep similar items together, such as canned goods, boxed items, and snacks. Use dividers or small baskets to separate different categories and keep everything in its proper place.
By following these tips and avoiding overfilling your drawers, you can ensure that your kitchen remains clean, organized, and efficient. Everything will be easily accessible, and you won’t waste time searching through cluttered drawers or cabinets. Plus, having a well-organized kitchen makes meal preparation and cooking a more enjoyable experience.
What should go in kitchen drawers
When it comes to organizing your kitchen drawers, it’s important to have a clear idea of what should go in each one. Here’s some advice to help you make the most of your kitchen drawer space:
1. Utensils
Your kitchen drawers are the perfect place to store your essential utensils. From spatulas to tongs, keeping them neatly organized in a drawer will make them easy to find when you need them.
2. Cooking essentials
Your kitchen drawers are also a great place to store your cooking essentials. This includes items like measuring cups, measuring spoons, and timers. By keeping them in a drawer, you’ll have them easily accessible whenever you’re in the middle of cooking.
3. Baking supplies
If you enjoy baking, consider dedicating a drawer to storing all your baking supplies. This can include things like whisks, pastry brushes, and decorating tools. Keeping them organized in a drawer will save you time and ensure you have everything you need for your next baking project.
4. Spices and jars
If you have limited cabinet space, consider storing your spices and jars in a kitchen drawer. Invest in small containers or dividers to keep them organized and easily accessible.
5. Wooden utensils
Wooden utensils, such as spoons and spatulas, can also be stored in a kitchen drawer. Just make sure to keep them separate from other utensils to avoid any cross-contamination.
6. Batteries
If you have small appliances or gadgets in your kitchen that require batteries, consider storing them in a drawer. This will ensure that you always have fresh batteries on hand when you need them.
7. Menu and recipe cards
Keep your menu and recipe cards organized in a kitchen drawer. This will make it easier to quickly locate them when you’re planning your meals or following a recipe.
8. Miscellaneous items
There are always miscellaneous items that need a place to be stored in the kitchen. These can include spare keys, pens, and notepads. Designate a drawer for these miscellaneous items to keep them organized and out of sight.
Organizing your kitchen drawers can be a step-by-step approach to ensure everything is in its right place. Stephanie, an organization expert and designer, suggests starting with the essentials and then organizing each drawer according to how often you use the items. She recommends keeping the most frequently used items near the front for easy access.
How do I organize my ‘everything’ drawer
When it comes to organizing your kitchen drawers, one area that often gets neglected is the ‘everything’ drawer. This is the drawer where you keep all the miscellaneous items that don’t have a designated spot anywhere else in your kitchen. It’s the catch-all drawer for spice packets, cooking utensils, batteries, and everything in between. But just because it’s filled with random items doesn’t mean it has to be chaotic and cluttered. With a little bit of design and organization, you can transform your ‘everything’ drawer into a well-organized space that makes finding what you need quick and easy.
Declutter and categorize
The first step to organizing your ‘everything’ drawer is to declutter and categorize the items inside. Take everything out of the drawer and get rid of any items that are broken, expired, or no longer needed. Then, categorize the remaining items into groups like cooking utensils, batteries, spice packets, and so on. This will help you get a clear picture of what you have and how you want to organize it.
Dividers and containers
Once you’ve decluttered and categorized your items, it’s time to think about how you want to store them. Using dividers and containers can be a great way to keep things separated and easy to find. Consider using small trays or shallow containers for items like spice packets or baking essentials. For larger items like cooking utensils, you can use dividers to create separate sections.
Stack and separate
When it comes to organizing your ‘everything’ drawer, a stack and separate approach can work well. Stack items like spice jars or batteries vertically to save space, and use dividers to separate different types of items. This will not only help you make the most of the space inside your drawer but also make it easier to quickly find what you’re looking for.
Store essentials within reach
As you’re organizing your ‘everything’ drawer, keep in mind that there are certain items you’ll need more frequently than others. Store these essentials within easy reach, such as towards the front or the top of the drawer. This way, you won’t have to dig through everything to find them.
Take advantage of the bottom and back
Don’t forget about the bottom and back of your ‘everything’ drawer. These areas can be great for less frequently used items or things that don’t need to be easily accessible. You can store items like chopping boards or extra dishes here, making the most of the space you have.
Consider your countertop
If you find that your ‘everything’ drawer is still overflowing even after organizing it, it might be time to consider storing some items on your countertop. This can be a convenient option for items like cooking utensils or a knife block. Just be sure to only keep essentials on the countertop to avoid clutter.
Organizing your ‘everything’ drawer may seem like a daunting task, but with a little bit of planning and organization, it can become a well-organized space that makes finding what you need a breeze. Take the time to declutter, categorize, and use dividers and containers to create separate sections. Store essentials within reach and utilize the bottom and back of your drawer for less frequently used items. And if you still find yourself running out of space, consider storing some items on your countertop. With these tips in mind, your ‘everything’ drawer will be a well-organized and functional part of your kitchen.