November is finally here, which means it’s all of a sudden the holiday season again. It’s so easy to get caught up in the cooking and baking that goes into just one family gathering, especially meal-heavy days like Thanksgiving. But if your kitchen is feeling overcrowded and chaotic, the holiday breaks can feel more like work than celebrations. Instead of subjecting yourself to the madness, take a look at the tips below to help keep your kitchen organized throughout the holiday season. You’ll appreciate it later!
In the Fridge
Transparent Baskets
Instead of throwing things in the fridge wherever they fit, find some clear baskets to group similar items together. You’ll be able to find what you need much more quickly and shifting multiple items at once will be easier when you’re trying to make room for yet another pie.
Labeled Sections
Along with the baskets, you can divide your fridge into sections (i.e. putting all the drinks on the right of the top shelf, etc.) and label each section for easier organization. Guests will appreciate how easily they can find what they’re looking for, and you won’t get stuck with your head in the fridge looking for that specific dressing your mother-in-law requests.
No More Bulky Packages
Sometimes what takes up the most space in the kitchen isn’t the food itself but the package it comes in. Instead of trying to cram everything in, consider taking ingredients out of their packages and storing them in plastic freezer bags or interlocking tupperware-like containers.
On the Counter
Spice Displays
There are a few spices that show up in many autumn and winter dishes, but finding them every time can be a pain. Instead, use cute or classy spice containers to display a few of the most common (cinnamon, nutmeg, clove) on the counter near your most-used prep area. You won’t have to search and you’ll have a festive kitchen on top of that!
Adjustable Countertop Shelves
When you’re making a big meal, there are some dishes that you’ll need to leave on the counter for a time, taking up valuable preparation space. Think about using portable, adjustable shelves for baked dishes and pies - not only will they have time to set, but you can put one dish on the shelf and another below it.
Dishwashing System
Everyone knows you’re supposed to clean as you go, but often that ends with the counters and the dishes are forgotten. Instead, before you start cooking set up a dishwashing station with everything you need so you can rinse dishes and put them right into the dishwasher. That way, dishes won’t pile up on the counter (though your kids might need a few reminders!).
In the Cabinets or Pantry
Pull Out Cabinets
In the hustle and bustle of cooking for many family members, it’s tempting to just throw pots and pans into the cabinet wherever they fit, making it difficult to find what you’re looking for later. Brands like Rev-A-Shelf and Shelves that Slide offer a unique solution - cabinet shelves that slide out so you can more easily reach the items in the back. Installing a few can make it easier to put dishes away now and even after the holidays are over.
In-Wall Pantry
If you’re not lucky enough to live in a house with a pantry, you might want to think about talking to a professional to build-in a set of shelves or a full pantry. Not only will you have extra storage space, a pantry can help clear out clutter and give you some peace of mind.
Baskets and Labels
The same ideas we listed above for your fridge can also be used in a pantry, including using transparent baskets and labels. Invest in some bigger, sturdier baskets for larger containers, and using removable labels lets you reorganize with the seasons.
