Kitchen Unpacking and Organizing: Move-In Ready for Family Dinners

The kitchen is the heart of the home where family members gather for meals, snacks, and shared moments. When it comes to organizing and unpacking, the key is creating an efficient layout where everything is easily accessible. It’s about functionality, ensuring that all your must-have items are within reach without creating unnecessary clutter.

A popular method for kitchen layout is the work triangle, where the sink, fridge, and stove are positioned in a triangular formation for efficiency. While this method is tried and true, it’s not always the best fit for every kitchen. I prefer to focus on functionality rather than strictly following the triangle if it causes friction in the space.

Tips for Organizing Your Kitchen:

• Spices Above the Stove: Keep spices close to the stove for easy access while cooking.

• Plates Nearby: Store plates within arm's reach of the cooking area for convenience.

• Drawers for Utensils: Organize utensils in drawers so they’re easy to grab when you need them.

• Tupperware in Deep Cabinets: Utilize deep cabinets for storing Tupperware, keeping them organized and out of sight.

• Coffee and Tea Station: Place your coffee machine, tea bags, and mugs in a reachable spot, ideally on the counter near the sink.

• Appliance Storage: Avoid crowding countertops with appliances. Store them in the pantry or spare cabinets to maximize counter space.

• Cleaning Supplies Under the Sink: Use sliding vertical storage for cleaning products under the sink. It’s an easy way to keep things organized without overcrowding.

• Countertop Organization: Keep countertops clean and clutter-free. Use rotating trays to store oil, vinegar, or even a bread box for daily essentials.

• Drinks Near the Sink: Store mugs and drinking glasses near the sink for convenience. For cocktail glasses, keep them higher up, so they’re easy to grab when needed.

• Drawer Storage for Bags and Aluminum: Use drawers to store plastic bags, foil, and aluminum. It keeps them neat and easily accessible.

• Deep Drawers for Bowls and Cups: Larger drawers are perfect for storing baking bowls and cups, allowing easy access and organization.

Professional Unpacking

Unpacking and organizing your kitchen can take anywhere from 5 to 8 hours depending on the size of the space. A professional organizer will work efficiently to sort and place everything where it makes the most sense, balancing the flow of the kitchen with your specific needs. The goal is to create a space that feels “move-in ready” and perfect for family dinners.

Remember, the layout should enhance your cooking experience, not make it more complicated. By keeping things functional and streamlined, you’ll have more time to enjoy meals with your family and less time spent searching for your favorite kitchen tools!

To see kitchen and pantry must have solutions check out this blog.