The kitchen is the heart of the home—but when it’s cluttered, chaotic, or overflowing with unused gadgets and mismatched containers, it can also be a major source of stress. Achieving a tidy and functional kitchen doesn’t mean ripping out cabinets or spending a fortune on storage products. It means understanding how to make the most of your space, your habits, and your routine.
At Mise en Place by Anita Birges, a clean kitchen starts with smart systems, not perfection. With the help of a home organising expert, you can turn your kitchen into a clutter-free, calm, and easy-to-maintain space—no matter its size or layout.
Let’s explore some of the most frequently asked questions about organising the kitchen—and the pro tips every home cook should know.
Why Is the Kitchen One of the Hardest Rooms to Keep Organised?
FAQ: I tidy my kitchen constantly—why does it keep getting messy?
Explanation:
The kitchen is a high-traffic, multi-purpose zone used by everyone in the household. It’s where meals are made, groceries land, school bags get dropped, and random clutter collects.
A home organising expert will tell you that without systems in place, even the neatest kitchen can unravel quickly. The key is making sure:
- Every item has a clear home
- Storage fits how you use your kitchen
- Daily habits support quick resets and upkeep
Where Should I Start When Decluttering My Kitchen?
FAQ: The whole kitchen feels overwhelming—what’s the first step?
Explanation:
Start small. Pick one category at a time—like:
- Mugs
- Spices
- Tupperware
- Utensils
A home organising expert often uses the “one-drawer-at-a-time” or “zone-by-zone” approach. Decluttering by category helps you stay focused, avoid burnout, and see quick wins.
How Do I Organise Kitchen Drawers Effectively?
FAQ: My drawers are always full and messy—any tips?
Explanation:
Yes! Effective drawer organisation is all about containment and clarity. Use:
- Drawer dividers for utensils, cutlery, and tools
- Small containers or bins to group similar items (tea bags, clips, medicine)
- Labels for multi-user households so everyone knows what goes where
- Remove duplicates or rarely used tools (do you really need 4 garlic presses?)
Less is more—when drawers aren’t jam-packed, they’re easier to maintain.
What’s the Best Way to Store Food Containers and Lids?
FAQ: My plastic containers are everywhere—how do I control the chaos?
Explanation:
This is a common pain point. Here’s how a home organising expert would solve it:
- Match lids with containers and discard extras or mismatches
- Stack containers by shape and size to save space
- Use a file-style rack or bin for lids so they stay upright and accessible
- Store containers near where you use them (e.g. below food prep areas)
Keeping it simple and streamlined makes packing lunches or leftovers much quicker.
How Can I Maximise Pantry Space?
FAQ: My pantry is overflowing and hard to manage—what can I do?
Explanation:
Start by removing expired or duplicate items, then:
- Use clear containers or baskets to group like items (grains, snacks, sauces)
- Label everything—even clear containers
- Use tiered shelves or lazy Susans for visibility and access
- Keep everyday items at eye level and rarely used goods higher up
A home organising expert can design a system that works with your family’s eating habits and restocking schedule.
How Do I Maintain a Clutter-Free Kitchen Long-Term?
FAQ: I’ve organised before, but it never sticks. How do I keep it that way?
Explanation:
Sustainability is the secret. To maintain your results:
- Build in weekly resets (e.g., 10 minutes every Sunday to tidy)
- Use the “one in, one out” rule for new tools or gadgets
- Involve the whole household with clear systems everyone can follow
- Be realistic about what you use regularly vs. what’s just taking up space
A home organising expert can also teach you personalised maintenance strategies to suit your lifestyle.
Should I Organise Based on Aesthetics or Function?
FAQ: I want it to look good, but I also need it to work—how do I balance both?
Explanation:
Start with function, then style. A great kitchen organising system:
- Puts the most-used items in the most accessible places
- Reduces decision fatigue and time spent searching
- Feels clean and calming to look at
- Makes it easier for everyone to contribute to the upkeep
Stylish containers are nice—but systems that work are better. A home organising expert will help you achieve both.
Final Thoughts
Your kitchen should be a space that supports your lifestyle—not one that adds stress to it. With a few expert strategies and sustainable systems, even the most cluttered kitchen can be transformed into a functional, beautiful space.
A home organising expert doesn’t just make your pantry Pinterest-worthy—they help you create a kitchen that’s easier to cook in, clean, and enjoy.
If you’re ready to experience that transformation, Mise en Place by Anita Birges is here to guide you, step-by-step, toward a kitchen that truly works for you.
