Week 48: Kitchen — Clean Inside Cabinets & Drawers
If your kitchen cabinets and drawers are looking a little “mystery zone” lately, this week’s challenge will bring order (and a little joy) back to your cooking space. It’s time to open those doors and drawers and give everything inside the attention it deserves!
Start by taking everything out — yes, everything. Wipe down your cabinet shelves inside and out, then add a liner if they’ve seen better days. It’s amazing how quickly crumbs, coffee grounds, and mystery sprinkles find their way in there.
Organize Kitchen Tools & Gadgets
As you put things back, think about what you actually use. Those gadgets that only come out once a year? They might be happier stored on a higher shelf, while your everyday tools deserve front-row placement.
I love using stackable racks for my water bottles and travel mugs — the 3-pack set I have makes it easy to see exactly which one I want each morning. I even store the lids right with them, so I’m never rummaging around. (If you prefer a more separated setup, there are dedicated lid organizers too.) Amazon affiliate link https://amzn.to/4bvBMqh
For drawers, I’m a fan of adjustable bamboo dividers and expandable utensil trays. They let you customize each section to fit your exact collection — no more jumbled spatulas mingling with whisks and can openers. Everything has its spot, which makes cooking feel smoother and less cluttered. Amazon affiliate link https://amzn.to/4lrtULB
Amazon affiliate link https://amzn.to/4cs3dCt
And if you’re short on cabinet space, here’s my secret weapon: shelf risers. They double your storage vertically and make it so much easier to grab a plate or mug without knocking over the whole stack. Seriously — game changer. Amazon affiliate link https://amzn.to/42qSEL3
Still stacking pots and hoping for the best? We’ve all been there. A pan rack organizer keeps lids, skillets, and saucepans standing tall and easy to grab. No clattering towers or risky balancing acts required. Amazon affiliate link https://amzn.to/4lJIHBB The product image shows the handles upright but I have the handles facing down.
Bonus Hacks
- Add non-slip shelf liners so dishes don’t slide around.
- Use small label clips or tags inside drawers to remind everyone where things go.
- Stick motion-sensor LED lights inside deep cabinets — you’ll never have to squint into the darkness for the pasta pot again.
Expert Tip
Use this moment to simplify. If something’s broken, expired, or hasn’t seen daylight in years, it’s time to let it go. You’ll be amazed how light and fresh your kitchen feels afterward.
“Outer order brings inner calm.” — Gretchen Rubin
It’s true — once your kitchen is neat, cooking (and even cleaning) feels easier and more enjoyable.
Keep the Momentum Going
We’re wrapping up the 52-Week Cleaning & Organizing Challenge soon, but it’s not the end — it’s the beginning of a simpler, calmer way to live. By this time next year, your home will feel more peaceful, efficient, and totally “you.”
Next week’s challenge: Week 49 — Living Room: Organize Magazines & Papers. Get ready to clear those coffee tables and side tables and make space for what really matters (like a cozy candle and maybe a cat or two).
If you’ve been enjoying these weekly challenges, you can find my Cleaning & Organizing Planner — plus my Holiday Planner — on my Amazon author page. You’ll find all my books and tools for creating a calm, organized home you’ll love spending time in.
Have a great day! xoxo, Dana
