Simple Steps for an Organized Cabinet: A Complete Guide
Ever flung open your cabinet doors only to dodge falling containers and mismatched lids? We’ve all been there! That chaotic jumble of boxes, jars, and mystery items lurking in the back doesn’t have to be your kitchen’s permanent reality. Whether you’re dealing with a pandemonium of pots and pans or an avalanche of snack boxes, I’ve got the perfect solutions to turn your cabinet chaos into calm. Get ready – your kitchen is about to become your new happy place using these simple steps for an organized cabinet!
The Pre-Organization Purge
Before diving into the simple steps for an organized cabinet system, you’ll need to start with a clean slate. Pull everything out and group similar items together. I know it looks worse before it gets better, but trust me on this one!
What to Keep and What to Toss
- Check expiration dates on food items
- Test lids and containers for proper fits
- Evaluate duplicate items
- Remove broken or damaged items
- Identify items you haven’t used in 6+ months
Smart Zoning Strategies
Creating designated zones is crucial for maintaining an organized cabinet system. Think of your cabinets as real estate – location matters!
High-Traffic vs Low-Traffic Items
- Daily-use items at eye level
- Special occasion pieces up high
- Heavy items down low
- Kids’ items within safe reach
Container Solutions That Work
Having the right storage solutions makes all the difference in maintaining simple steps for an organized cabinet. Here’s what I’ve found works best:
Must-Have Organizers
- Clear storage containers
- Lazy Susans for corner cabinets
- Pull-out drawer organizers
- Shelf risers
- Label maker or labels
The Ultimate Stacking Method
Learn to maximize vertical space without creating avalanches of toppling containers!
Strategic Stacking Tips
- Use uniform containers when possible
- Stack lighter items on top
- Implement the “three-high” rule
- Leave breathing room between stacks
- Consider clear drawer systems
Maintenance Made Simple
The key to keeping your organized cabinet system functioning is regular maintenance. Set yourself up for success with these habits:
Weekly Rituals
- Quick inventory check
- Wipe down surfaces
- Adjust items as needed
- Return misplaced items
- Review expiration dates
Problem-Solving Common Cabinet Challenges
Even the most organized spaces face occasional hurdles. Here’s how to tackle common issues:
Solutions for Tricky Situations
- Deep corner cabinets
- Narrow spaces
- Over-door storage
- Under-sink organization
- Awkward-sized items
Making Your System Stick
The best organization system is one you’ll actually maintain. Here’s how to make it last:
Habit-Building Strategies
- Start small
- Create routines
- Use visual cues
- Involve family members
- Schedule regular reviews
Craving more budget-friendly home magic? Dive into my Indoor Decorating Projects treasure trove! It’s bursting with DIY inspiration and wallet-friendly wonders to transform your space. Click, explore, and let your creativity run wild!
Remember, achieving and maintaining an organized cabinet doesn’t have to be complicated. By following these simple steps and implementing the right solutions for your space, you’ll create a system that works for your lifestyle and keeps chaos at bay!
Ok so don’t laugh… I made a pull out storage drawer for under my sink and I LOVE IT!! Well, the hubs had to get under the sink to fix the disposal and took the drawer out and when he put it back in??? He basically just stuck stuff everywhere. I was determined not to let my OCD get the best of me but yeah, I’m heading upstairs to straighten it up now. I am by no means the tidiest person, but I absolutely cannot stand disorganization!
I will only laugh WITH you, but I completely understand! My husband isn’t known for being the most organized, and it drives me nuts. It’s really hard to keep a handle on my OCD as well. He most definitely rolled his eyes when he saw me cleaning out this cabinet! Men. 😉
I do love the idea of painting the drawer. Makes the finished product that much better.
By the way, I would love to have you post on my new blog hop—the Weekend Blog Hop at My Flagstaff Home (www.myflagstaffhome.com). It begins on Thursday evenings and lasts through the weekend, if you’re interested.
Jennifer
Hi Jennifer and thank you! Painting truly does wonders! 🙂
I love this post and I’m excited to read your blog.
By the way, I would love to have you post on my new blog hop—the Weekend Blog Hop at My Flagstaff Home (www.myflagstaffhome.com). It begins on Thursday evenings and lasts through the weekend, if you’re interested.
Jennifer
Hi LZ, here from Inspire Me Monday.
I’m working really hard on organizing. Before I moved (3 weeks ago), I threw out all (ok, most) of the non matching things. And the most of the sippy cups went to my daughter, who doesn’t live with me anymore.
It’s hard to be organized when I’ve been a slob all my life, but I’m finding it so much better to be organized! Who knew?? lol
Hi Melinda! Don’t worry. You are not alone! It is extremely hard to get organized. When my husband and I first got married, and all my stuff (aka. junk) started piling onto the moving truck he asked me countless times why I was keeping some of the items. I never had a good reason, but at least we are both learning, right?!?
organization always makes me smile. Great tips. I invite you to share at my Thursday Blog Hop xo
Thank you, Katherine! I will definitely come by and check it out 😉
Love the idea of painting the drawers! It does make everything looks clean and neat!
Appreciate you taking the time to visit and share with us at Brag About It!
Have a great week!
~Laurie
Thank you, Laurie! Believe it or not, it was not planned! It was one of those things where I started cleaning and then realized that something was missing. Thanks so much for stopping by 🙂
Oh my gosh, THE LIDS!!! I hate those things. They never sit right in the cabinet and if not put back properly they fall out and bonk us on the head. This has motivated me to get it organized!
The lids are the worse! I completely agree, Katie! One of these days we’ll figure out a better method for the madness 😉
Great tips to get the cupboards in shape! Now all I need to do is keep my toddlers out of them and they will stay pretty! 😉 Thanks for linking up at Wonderful Wednesday. I am pinning this!
That will definitely be challenging Jaimi! My daughter is almost 4, and I still struggle with that one! Shoot, I struggle with convincing my husband to keep it nice and neat. 😉
This is definitely a “do every now and again” job isn’t it? Those lids and containers seem to loose their partners on a regular basis! When ever our drawer looks a bit messy I find getting rid of the oddments and putting it all back neatly makes me feel good every time I open it.
No kidding, Julie! I feel like I’m constantly doing little projects like this to keep everything under control. You’d think that they would invent more containers attached with little hook-ons for the lids. You know the thing I’m talking about? We used to use them with my daughter when she was a baby to ensure her gloves stayed hooked to her coat so she didn’t lose them. Lol.