How to declutter a kitchen like a pro – 5 simple steps from home organizing experts that will seriously streamline your kitchen

A clutter-free kitchen is essential for creating a functional and inviting space. Not only does it make cooking and meal prep more efficient, but it also reduces stress during vital family activities and makes cleaning up easier.

If your kitchen feels on the brink of a container tsunami whenever you open a cabinet, these professional decluttering tips will ease the task of streamlining in no time.

Step 1: Empty and categorize

To properly declutter your kitchen, you'll need to first know what you've got. Remove everything from your cabinets, drawers, and countertops.

Ben Soreff, professional organizer at House to Home Organizing, says, 'Decluttering a kitchen properly takes time, so make sure you have set aside enough focused time to finish what you start.

'Take everything out of all the cabinets. Everything. Then review. Every item in the kitchen belongs in a category. Typical kitchen categories are baking, cooking, entertaining, morning beverages, and pantry goods.'

Step 2: Assess and purge

The second stage involves assessing what you want to keep and what you're better getting rid of. This is even more important when decluttering a small kitchen.

Karina Toner, operations manager at Spekless Cleaning, says, 'Keeping only what you use ensures you’re not overwhelmed by unnecessary items. Start by getting rid of any items past their expiration date – there's typically more of these than you'd think.

'Next, look at each item and ask: "Do I use this regularly?" and "Does it spark joy?" Donate duplicates, rarely used gadgets, or mismatched items, and recycle any packaging that takes up unnecessary space.'

To help with deciding how much to keep, Ben Soreff, professional organizer advises separating different categories into containers, especially for pantry goods. He says, 'I like clear pantry bins like iDesign Recycled Plastic Extra-Large Bins from Amazon, as they create a limit on the number of items you can keep from any one category.

'Most people have deep pantries and so all the items stuck at the back are going to expire years before you use them. These bins allow you take out items like rice or pasta easily, get what you need, and put them back.'

He adds that this is the best time to get rid of those items you've collected but don't really have the room for. 'Mugs and water bottles are a great example,' he says, 'people tend to collect them as corporate gifts and simply shove them on the mug shelf, regardless of space or whether they'll be used much.'

Step 3: Clean your cabinets

Once empty, take the opportunity to deep clean your cabinets and drawers, watching out for these common kitchen cabinet cleaning mistakes.

Toner says, 'Clean surfaces help prevent clutter from returning and gives you a fresh start. Wipe down all shelves, drawers, and countertops using a multipurpose cleaner. I like Mrs. Meyer's Multi-Surface Cleaner from Walmart – it's an eco-friendly option that cuts through grease and smells amazing.'

Conclude with a sweep of the floor and a thorough vacuum using one of the best vacuums.

Step 4: Reorganize purposefully

Arrange items based on usage and accessibility.

Soreff says, 'Keep in mind the most basic 'law' of organizing: items we use often need to be more accessible and items we use less frequently – such as Thanksgiving platters, for example – need to be stored more remotely.

'Then it's about finding the best location for the remaining items. Anything we use frequently needs to live in an area with easy access. Everyday plates and bowls should be near the dishwasher and mugs near the kettle or coffee machine.'

When it comes to storing your utensils, our experts advise using a drawer organizer such as this OXO Good Grips Expandable Drawer Organizer from Amazon, which has adjustable section sizes. Toner says, 'This is perfect for arranging utensils and tools neatly while saving space.'

Soreff advises ensuring that items can be easily put in and taken out of their cabinet or drawer. He says, 'Cramming every dish, bowl, and cup in the cabinet is very easy, but getting them out again is a nightmare. In terms of access, turn tables work well for oils, spices, vitamins and supplements.'

Consider too the mobility and additional accessibility needs of those in your household. If you need pots and pans everyday, having them in an awkward corner cabinet won't be practical.

This handy Kamenstein 16-Jar Chrome Wire Revolving Filled Spice Rack from Walmart comes with all the key spices you'll need – including basil, oregano, and coriander – with easy-to-read labels and free refills for five years.

Step 5: Maintain regularly

Decluttering is not a one-time job, so to maintain its effect you'll want to set a schedule to tidy up and reassess your kitchen.

Toner says, 'Regular maintenance prevents clutter from building up again. As well as returning items to their designated spots daily, I advise a quick cleanout weekly, focusing on areas prone to messes like the fridge.

'Remember: decluttering your kitchen isn’t just about creating a visually appealing space – it also improves functionality and reduces stress. So start small, stay consistent, and enjoy spending time in your refreshed, organized kitchen.'

Toner recommends Rubbermaid Microfiber Cloths from Amazon, adding, 'They're great for quick cleaning and wiping surfaces without streaks.'

Check out our guide on how often you should clean your kitchen, and watch out for the dirty hidden areas of the kitchen we often forget.

FAQs

What's the biggest mistake people make when decluttering a kitchen?

One common mistake is trying to tackle the entire kitchen at once, which can feel overwhelming. Instead, break the process into smaller areas, like a single drawer or one cabinet, and complete each section before moving on. This method keeps the task manageable and ensures thoroughness.

What should I do with unwanted kitchen items?

Donate or sell usable items such as cookware or small appliances locally. For broken or unusable items, look for recycling programs in your area or dispose of them responsibly. This approach minimizes waste while helping others.

How can I keep my kitchen organized long term?

Consistency is key. Set up a routine to go through your kitchen every three to six months, checking for unused items or expired food. Use storage solutions such as clear containers or labeled bins to maintain order and prevent clutter.

So there you have it – how to declutter a kitchen in five simple steps. A well-organized kitchen doesn’t just improve efficiency; it enhances your daily routine and peace of mind.

Next, check out the things that people with nice-smelling kitchens always do.