How to Organize Kitchen Drawers Like a Pro

Does it feel like your kitchen drawers are a black hole for utensils and gadgets? I’ve been there too! It’s frustrating to dig around for the potato peeler only to find it tangled in measuring cups and corn cob holders.

When I recently tackled organizing my kitchen, I quickly realized that focusing on the drawers made the biggest difference. They’re the workhorses of any kitchen, and getting them organized creates a ripple effect of calm and efficiency.

So, today, I’m going to walk you through how to organize your kitchen drawers like a pro, creating functional spaces that save you time and frustration.

plastic container drawer - how to organize kitchen drawers

If you’re ready to extend that sense of order beyond your drawers, check out my post on How to Organize Your Kitchen. It’s a game-changer for taming counter and cabinet chaos!

Step-by-Step Guide to Organizing Kitchen Drawers

Kitchen drawers are such handy little storage spaces. Given that they can get messy easily though, let’s get them sorted right!

1. Empty All the Drawers

Start with a clean slate by taking everything out of your kitchen drawers. Lay it all out on a table or counter so you can see what you’re working with.

2. Declutter Ruthlessly

Ask yourself, “Do I use this item regularly?” Toss out duplicates, broken utensils, and anything you haven’t used in the past year. Be honest with yourself. it’s time to let go of that garlic press or peeler you never liked using.

3. Categorize Your Items

Sort items into categories like cooking utensils, baking tools, everyday cutlery, and specialty gadgets. Grouping similar items together will make organizing much easier.

Organizing drawer with Shannon's hand

4. Measure and Plan

Before you start putting items back, measure your drawers and determine how to maximize the space. Drawer organizers or dividers are incredibly helpful for keeping things tidy.

5. Arrange for Accessibility

Place the most-used items in the most accessible drawers. For example, keep everyday cutlery near the dishwasher and cooking utensils close to the stove.

6. Maintain with a System

Add labels if it helps you (or your family!) keep things in order. I like to revisit my drawers every six months to make sure they’re still working for me.

junk drawer 1

FAQs

What’s the best way to keep utensils from sliding around in drawers?

Non-slip liners or adjustable dividers can keep your utensils in place and prevent them from sliding every time you open a drawer.

How do I handle oddly shaped or oversized items?

If items like whisks or rolling pins don’t fit well in your drawers, consider using a separate bin or an upright holder on the counter for easy access.

What about junk drawers? Should I keep one?

A “junk drawer” is fine if it’s intentional! Dedicate a small space for odds and ends, but keep it organized with small bins or trays.

Organizing kitchen drawers doesn’t have to feel overwhelming. With a little effort upfront, you’ll save time and stress every day. Plus, there’s something so satisfying about opening a drawer and finding everything exactly where it should be. Once you try this, you’ll never want to go back to the cluttered chaos!

Which kitchen drawers need organizing most at your house? Tell me in the comments below and maybe I can help!

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