Utensil Organization

Utensils are a necessary part of cooking. However, they are unruly and present an organizational challenge.

The first thing to do when organizing them is to determine exactly what you use. I like to do this by getting out two containers (pitchers work well) and as you use something move it from one container to the other. At the end of a few weeks, you’ll know what you really use.

Most of us have multiples of lots of items; tongs, wooden spoons and so on. Determine what you really use and need to keep.

Do you REALLY need eight wooden spoons? Be honest and donate the rest.

Now, it’s time to come up with various ways to store your utensils. There are so many available to you that it may be overwhelming. Really think about where you use them the most and store them close by. Use the area that you have space available on/in; the counter top, the drawers, or cabinets.

If you have some area on your back splash, a magnetic knife rack us a great way to use space that is otherwise useless.

If course, the traditional crock is a great way to keep things within reach. If you have space, use a few crocks to divide up your utensils. Make sure you routinely remove everything and clean the bottoms. You will be shocked at how many crumbs there are!

I love the idea of hanging things using a bar like this (Ikea). They are easy to get to. If you don’t use something for a while, it will get dusty though, so make sure you use what you hand up.

If a custom option is in your budget, this one is amazing.

A traditional approach is the easiest option. Inexpensive and easy to put in. Make sure you measure your drawer before you head to the store!