How To Keep Your Counters Free of Clutter
This Article Written By
Carly C.
Author / Co-Owner
Hi there, my name is Carly! I am a massive New England Patriots fan, I cannot start my day without Starbucks, and… growing up, I was my mom’s messiest kid. Who would’ve thought I would be the one to own a cleaning business.
Hey there! It’s Carly from FreshLee Cleaning Co. here, ready to share some life-changing tips on one of the most common home struggles—keeping those countertops free of clutter. Whether it’s your kitchen or bathroom, counters can quickly become a catch-all for everything from mail and keys to skincare products and cooking gadgets. Before you know it, those sleek surfaces start to look like a chaotic mess!
But don’t worry—I’ve got you covered! With a few simple habits and clever organization strategies, you can keep your counters looking tidy and chic all the time. Let’s dive in and declutter those countertops together!
Start with a Clean Slate
First things first—let’s get those counters completely clear. I know, it might seem daunting, especially if it’s been a while since you’ve seen your entire countertop, but trust me, it’s worth it. Remove everything and give your counters a good wipe-down with a multi-purpose cleaner. This not only gives you a fresh start but also helps you see just how much space you have to work with.
Sort and Organize
Now that your counters are clear, it’s time to tackle the items you removed. Lay them out on a table or the floor and sort them into categories: kitchen gadgets, mail, spices, toiletries, etc. Once you see everything laid out, it’s easier to decide what actually needs to stay on the counter and what can find a new home elsewhere.
Pro Tip: If you find items that don’t belong in the kitchen or bathroom, take this opportunity to put them back where they belong. It’s amazing how much clearer your counters can be when things are in their proper places!
Designate a Home for Everything
One of the key secrets to keeping your counters clutter-free is giving everything a designated home. This means that every item, from your toaster to your moisturizer, should have a specific spot where it lives.
In the Kitchen:
- Appliances: Only keep frequently used appliances like the coffee maker or toaster on the counter. Store less frequently used ones in cabinets or pantry shelves.
- Utensils and Tools: Consider a utensil holder for your most-used cooking tools, and store the rest in drawers. Use drawer organizers to keep utensils neat and easy to find.
- Mail and Keys: A small tray or basket by the entrance can help keep mail and keys from taking over your kitchen counters.
In the Bathroom:
- Toiletries: Use trays or organizers for skincare products, toothbrushes, and other daily essentials. Store backups or less frequently used items in cabinets or drawers.
- Makeup: Invest in a makeup organizer or use small baskets to keep everything tidy and accessible.
Use Storage Solutions
When it comes to keeping counters clear, good storage solutions are your best friends. Here are a few ideas to help you maximize space without sacrificing style:
- Baskets and Bins: Perfect for organizing small items that can easily clutter up counters, like spices, medications, or beauty products. Plus, they’re easy to move when you need to clean!
- Lazy Susans: Great for keeping frequently used items accessible without taking up too much space. Ideal for spices, oils, or condiments in the kitchen.
- Vertical Storage: Make use of wall space with shelves, hooks, or magnetic strips. This helps keep items off the counter while still being within reach.
Create a Daily Cleanup Routine
The key to maintaining clutter-free counters is consistency. Make it a habit to tidy up your counters at the end of each day. It doesn’t have to be a big ordeal—just a quick 5-minute sweep to put things back where they belong. This will prevent items from piling up and make your morning routine so much smoother.
Pro Tip: For my neurospicy readers, set aside one room a day to focus on so it’s not so overwhelming.
Keep Only What You Need
Minimalism isn’t just a trend; it’s a great strategy for maintaining a clean, clutter-free space. Before putting something back on your counter, ask yourself if it’s something you use daily or at least several times a week. If not, consider finding it a new home in a drawer, cabinet, or storage bin. The fewer items you have on your counters, the easier they are to keep clean!
Seasonal Decluttering
Even with the best habits in place, clutter can sneak up on us. That’s why I recommend doing a seasonal declutter of your counters. Take a few minutes every few months to evaluate what’s on your counters and whether it still deserves a place there. You might be surprised at how much you can clear away!
Need Professional Help?
Keeping your counters free of clutter might seem like a never-ending battle, but with the right strategies and a bit of consistency, it’s totally achievable. Not only will your kitchen and bathroom look cleaner and more organized, but you’ll also find that having a clutter-free space can help reduce stress and make your home feel more peaceful. So, grab those organizers, make a plan, and let’s tackle that counter clutter once and for all! You got this! And as always, if you need a little extra help keeping your home in tip-top shape, FreshLee Cleaning Co. is here to lend a hand.