Kitchen Organization: Before and After

Problem. The main counter area to the right of the sink is holding mail, keys, pens, a cleaning spray bottle, and several tumblers. This eats into your prep space and makes it look visually cluttered, plus it's a magnet for more miscellaneous items.

Fix. All these items need a designated home away from the prime food prep and cooking zones. A counter caddy for mail and keys, and perhaps a small tray for the tumblers to keep them corralled if they're frequently used, otherwise, putting them in an upper cabinet. The cleaning spray can go under the sink.

Problem. The cabinet under the sink is a jumble of food storage containers mixed with what looks like baking sheets and other kitchen items, all stacked directly on the shelf. This makes it hard to find a specific container and is inefficient use of the vertical space.

Fix. Utilize vertical space with a shelf organizer for baking sheets/lids and stackable bins for the food storage containers. Group similar items together so you can easily pull out a bin to find what you need.

Problem. You have a few K-cups sitting loose next to the coffee maker. While it's just a few now, this often escalates and can make your coffee station look messy.

Fix. A small K-cup holder or drawer will contain these pods, keeping the area tidy and organized. If you have more K-cups stored elsewhere, this provides a small, accessible stock.

Problem. I see an assortment of spice jars and potentially oils just free-standing behind the stove, very close to the burners. This is a fire hazard, makes cleaning difficult, and clutters the cooking area.

Fix. Move these items off the stove. Use a tiered spice rack in an adjacent cabinet or a small caddy if you frequently use them to keep them together and easily accessible, but away from heat.