10 Things to Remove to Declutter Your Kitchen

The kitchen is special in every home, where memories are created, and meals are shared. However, it can quickly become cluttered with more than just pots and pans over time. Many unused gadgets, outdated appliances, and even forgotten papers can accumulate. Whether preparing for a move or simply craving a more minimalist kitchen, embarking on a journey of decluttering and downsizing can be genuinely transformative. Dive into our guide for practical kitchen organization ideas and discover the top 10 items to remove or downsize to reclaim a clutter-free kitchen. If you think about your and your family's health and safety, some of these are easy!

Top 10 Items on Your Kitchen Downsizing Checklist:

1. Expired Food: Begin by thoroughly inspecting your pantry and fridge. Discard expired items to free up valuable space and ensure freshness and efficiency in your cooking routine. Think Health and Safety (WHIMS). If it is old, toss it!!
2. Cracked or Chipped Items: Bid farewell to cracked mugs, chipped plates, and worn-out containers that no longer serve their purpose effectively. They are dangerous again. Think about health and safety.
3. Cookbooks: While treasured, cookbooks can occupy significant shelf space. Consider digitizing your favourites or keeping only those you frequently consult for recipes. I'm guilty of organizing many recipes with good intentions.  Now, I use the computer to find a recipe with the ingredients I have in the kitchen.
4. Duplicates of Utensils: Assess your spatulas, ladles, and other utensil collections. Keep only the essentials, and consider donating or gifting duplicates that clutter your drawers. Again, health and safety check: Those black utensils are unsafe and leave microplastics in your food. 
5. Serving Platters and Extra Dishes: Evaluate your assortment of serving platters and excess dishes. Keep versatile pieces you use regularly, and consider donating those seldom used. Stick to one or two colours so that everything will match.
6. Small Appliances and Gadgets: Take stock of appliances like juicers, bread makers, or specialty gadgets. Keep those that enhance your daily routine and part ways with rarely used or redundant ones. I love my Instant Pot, so I don't need to keep the slow cooker now as it is a duplicate. 
7. Unused Cookware: Review your cookware collection and keep items that align with your cooking style and needs. I would rarely use a bunt pan. Will you? If needed I could borrow one from a friend for that special occasion. Consider donating pieces that no longer serve a practical purpose in your kitchen.
8. Excessive Glassware: Assess your glassware collection and retain essential pieces for entertaining. My family prefers wine glasses that can go in the dishwasher, so some wine glasses take up precious space on our shelves. Donate any extras to streamline storage space and usage.
9. Mismatched storage containers: This is an easy one. Match your containers; if they don't have a lid and a bottom, they can go!! Also, remove the ones that are stained, smelly, or missing a piece. 
10. Anything that doesn't belong in the kitchen—toys, clothes, shoes, books, bags—should be removed from the floor, countertops, or cupboards. 

Decluttering and downsizing your kitchen isn't solely about minimizing physical clutter; it's about creating a space that supports your lifestyle and brings you joy. By embracing letting go of excess, your kitchen will become functional, safe, and enhance your daily life. Start your journey today with these kitchen tips to help you towards a clutter-free kitchen that reflects your style and values.