The new year is the perfect time to hit the reset button, and what better place to start than in your kitchen? A clutter-free, organized kitchen can make meal prep easier, inspire healthier eating and set the tone for a more productive year ahead. If your kitchen feels a little chaotic, don’t worry — following this step-by-step guide for a proper kitchen refresh can bring it back to calm.
Step 1: Declutter your kitchen
Clutter is one of the biggest barriers to a functional kitchen. Start by removing everything from your cabinets, drawers and pantry — yes, everything. It might feel overwhelming, but it’s an important step to assess what you actually have. I like to divide this task into food and non-food sections because I do not have the counter space to do it all at once.
Once everything is out, sort items into categories, such as pots and pans, utensils, spices and canned goods. Be honest about what you really use — you may be better off donating that kitchen torch you haven’t touched in five years. Check expiration dates on food items. Toss anything past its prime and donate anything that is still good but you know you won’t use. Minimize duplicates by keeping the best and letting go of extras.
Step 2: Deep clean every nook and cranny
With everything out of the cabinets and drawers, it’s time to thoroughly clean your kitchen. Begin by wiping down all surfaces using warm, soapy water. Make sure to clean shelves, drawers, countertops and often-overlooked areas like the top of the fridge.
Next, tackle the appliances. While your oven, microwave, dishwasher and refrigerator are obviously in this category, it also includes smaller countertop appliances such as air fryers, coffee makers and crockpots. A sparkling sink can be incredibly satisfying, so give it a good scrub, then run a mix of baking soda and vinegar down the drain to clear out any lingering scents. If you have a garbage disposal, feed it half of a lemon to clear out any leftover debris and give it a naturally fresh scent.
Finish off by sweeping and mopping the floors. If you have rugs, shake them out or wash them for a truly fresh feel. A deep clean sets the stage for an organized and refreshed kitchen you’ll love spending time in.
Step 3: Reorganize thoughtfully
Now that everything is clean, it’s time to put things back — but with intention. Think of your kitchen in terms of work zones, such as a prep zone, cooking zone and cleaning zone, and store items near where you’ll use them most. Depending on your space and budget, consider investing in organizers like drawer dividers, lazy Susans or clear bins for your pantry to keep everything tidy and accessible.
Label the containers if you’re transferring items like flour, sugar, oats and pasta into jars. Store everyday items like plates, bowls and utensils within easy reach and close to your dishwasher or sink if possible. Reserve high shelves or out-of-the-way cabinets for seasonal or rarely used items. Thoughtful organization will make your kitchen more functional and enjoyable to use.
Step 4: Add personal touches
Once your kitchen is decluttered, clean and organized, it’s time to add a little personality. Small touches can make your kitchen feel more inviting and enjoyable. Consider adding a colorful rug, a countertop herb garden or a piece of wall art to brighten up the space without adding clutter. Replace old dish towels, potholders or utensils with fresh, stylish options.
If you’re a caffeine lover, set up a dedicated coffee or tea station with your coffee maker or kettle and add a display of mugs and supplies. If you want to inspire yourself to eat more fresh in-season fruit, allocate space on your countertop for a colorful fruit basket filled with some of your favorite grab-and-go options. Incorporating a chalkboard or whiteboard can also be a great way to jot down grocery lists, meal plans or motivational quotes.
Step 5: Maintain your refreshed kitchen
The hardest part of a kitchen refresh is often maintaining it, but adopting simple habits can help keep your kitchen looking great all year long. For example, it’s often recommended to make it a habit to clean up while cooking your favorite shrimp risotto rather than letting dishes and mess pile up. However, changing ingrained habits in how you cook can take time.
My favorite approach to maintaining my kitchen long-term is using a method I call “resetting the room.” Whenever you are done with the space — like after you’ve finished making a meal, before you leave for the day or prior to going to bed at night — stop for a minute, look around and ask yourself if this is how you want the room to look when you return to it. For me, it’s enough to prompt myself into hanging up the towel, popping that extra spoon in the dishwasher and straightening the rug before I walk away. Staying on top of the clutter and messes daily makes for way less stress to deal with on a weekly or monthly basis.
Why a kitchen refresh matters
A kitchen refresh isn’t just about aesthetics; it’s about creating a space that supports your lifestyle and goals. A clean, organized kitchen makes it easier to cook at home, which is better for your waistline and wallet. It can save time by helping you find what you need quickly and reduce stress by eliminating the chaos of clutter.
As you start the new year, giving your kitchen a fresh start can be a powerful way to set a positive tone for the months ahead. So grab your cleaning supplies, roll up your sleeves and enjoy the satisfaction of a well-refreshed kitchen. You’ve got this.
Renee N Gardner is the creator behind Renee Nicole’s Kitchen, a recipe blog based on seasonal ingredients, dedicated to helping home cooks build their kitchen confidence to become home chefs. When Renee isn’t writing, developing recipes or photographing food, you’ll find her in the garden, traveling or enjoying the outdoors with her husband, son and two dogs.