As an older person, I don’t want to waste energy when I don’t have to. Running around a disorganized kitchen can use up loads of valuable energy!
Here are my 13 ways to organize your kitchen for maximum efficiency. They are simple and easy to do and the results will surprise you!
A well-organized kitchen makes cooking easier, faster, and safer, for everyone, but especially for seniors who want to minimize strain and unnecessary movement.
Even if you only implement a few of these suggestions, you will have made your kitchen a much safer and friendlier workspace!
1. Declutter and Keep Only Essentials
Do you have appliances, piles of crockery, and drawers full of cutlery you don’t use? Is your kitchen a mess?
Remove less-frequently used items to a storage area to free up space. If you have duplicate items, consider donating them to a local charity.
Then put daily-use items in easy-to-reach spots.
2. Optimize Cabinet Storage with Lazy Susans
Lazy Susans are like the secret superheroes of kitchen organization – quietly spinning their way into your heart and making everything just a little bit easier to access.
Whether you’re reaching for a spice, a can of soup, or a jar of jam, a Lazy Susan turns a frustrating search into a smooth, effortless twirl.
Best of all, I love a Lazy Susan, because I don’t have to struggle to reach items at the back of a cabinet. One spin, and they appear in the front row for me!
3. Create a Work Triangle
Arrange the fridge, stove, and sink in a triangular layout for easy movement.
Keep prep tools near the cutting area and cookware close to the stove.
You’ll be able to easily access the three most important features of your kitchen without running around from one side of the room to the other.
4. Use Clear Containers and Labels
Clear containers are a must for an organized kitchen. You can instantly see what you have, and what you need to replenish.
I use clear containers for dry goods like cereals, pasta, rice, and grains. They’re also perfect for baking essentials like flour, baking powder, and icing sugar.
For the grandkids, I have containers with fun treats that they love!
Adding labels to your containers gives you even more control and takes your organization skills to the next level!
5. Make Small Appliances Easily Accessible
Store frequently used appliances, like a toaster or coffee maker, on the counter for convenience.
Place heavier appliances like mixers or slow cookers on an appliance lift or a great looking bamboo rolling tray. You can then push them out of the way and easily pull them out for use.
I love anything made from bamboo – it’s a natural and sustainable product that looks stylish and modern and won’t harm the environment.
6. Improve Lighting for Better Visibility
Good lighting is essential in a kitchen, especially for the elderly when our eyesight is not as good as in our younger days.
If you have large windows, don’t block the light with heavy curtains! Allow natural sunlight to filter in, creating a bright and fresh ambiance.
For kitchens that are smaller and less well lit, consider installing under-cabinet lighting like this to illuminate countertops. These units don’t require power points and are easy to install.
7. Add Non-Slip Mats
Non-slip mats on the kitchen floor are like a safety net for your feet!
They provide extra grip, helping to prevent slips and falls, especially when the floor gets wet from cooking or cleaning.
Not only do they keep you steady on your feet, but they also add comfort by cushioning your steps, making long hours in the kitchen more pleasant. And, they’re easy to clean, making them a practical and safe addition to your cooking space.
8. Use Magnetic Strips For Knives
Digging through a drawer for a knife can result in cut hands or fingers – something you don’t want!
And, I find that keeping knives in drawers makes it so difficult to find the one I want in a hurry.
Install a magnetic knife holder on a wall and get your knives out of the drawer. They will be safely stored, visible, easily accessible (to adults), and you’ll save drawer space for other items.
9. Create a Comfortable and Safe Setup
Use an anti-fatigue mat in front of the sink or prep area to reduce foot strain.
Ensure frequently used items are within arm’s reach to avoid bending or stretching.
10. Maintain a Simple and Efficient Workflow
Clean as you go to keep countertops clutter-free.
Keep frequently used spices and seasonings near the stove.
Store cleaning supplies under the sink in a neat and accessible manner.
By setting up your kitchen with efficiency in mind, you can make cooking a more enjoyable and stress-free experience while reducing physical strain.
11. Optimize Drawer Storage with Dividers
My kitchen drawers often turn into a cluttered mess! I start off great and then, a few weeks later – I have a jumble of stuff!
I found that drawer dividers make a world of difference in keeping drawers organized. They’re budget-friendly, easy to install, and instantly provide compartments for sorting and storing.
12. Keep Heavier Items At Waist Level
Keeping heavier items at waist level reduces strain on your back and makes lifting easier.
Store things like pots, pans, and bulkier appliances in accessible cabinets to avoid bending or reaching.
This simple adjustment helps create a more ergonomic, efficient kitchen setup!
13. Use Smart Technology for Convenience
If you are tech-savvy, consider adding smart appliances like voice-controlled lights, smart ovens, or programmable coffee makers that can be controlled remotely.
Set timers and reminders on your phone or smart speaker to keep track of cooking times, helping you stay organized and reduce the need for constant monitoring.
Invest in a smart refrigerator with built-in inventory tracking to easily manage grocery lists and prevent overbuying.
If you’re not tech-savvy, don’t stress, many of these new devices are not difficult to operate, and can bring more convenience to your kitchen routine, making it easier to stay organized and efficient!
Hello There!
Hi! My name is Madlyn and I’m a modern tech-savvy Grandma with a passion for all-things-appliances.
If it has an On-Off switch, I want it! I have a job, a home, a husband, kids, grand kids, and pets – the whole nine yards. And, I have kitchen appliances …
My Appliance Journey
Over the years, my hubby and I have spent a fortune on appliances ranging from baby bottle warmers to large fancy fridges for a house full of growing teens.
Some were value for money and lasted for years, while others packed up in less than a month.
Over the years I have gained vast experience with appliances of all types and would love to share my insights with others.
Hopefully this will help you make informed decisions and not waste unnecessary time and your hard-earned money.
What I Do
I’ll be writing about must-have kitchen appliances like kettles, toasters, fridges and washing machines.
I’ll also chat about not-so-must-have kitchen appliances like coffee makers.
Okay! I get it – for coffee addicts like myself, a coffee maker is most definitely a must, and is certainly more important than a toaster.
Being familiar with the iconic brands, I will also give you comparisons, some history (for history lovers) and other insights that I have gained over the years spent in the kitchen.
Who Is This Website For?
Whether you are a single professional, a busy working Mom, a new home owner, or a retiree, I will keep you up to date with the perfect kitchen appliances and kitchen tips for your needs.
Being an elder person myself, I will also offer kitchen appliance tips, kitchen safety tips, cooking tips, and healthy eating tips for the elderly.