If your countertops are cluttered with rarely-used appliances and your oven serves as storage for your grandmother’s cookware, it’s time for a change. A little holiday kitchen organization can go a long way toward creating the space you need for cooking, baking, and entertaining. Making a mouthwatering holiday meal under these conditions could be a challenge. In fact, the best thing that you can make at this point is reservations. It’s hard to “cook with love” in a dysfunctional kitchen.
To keep your space and your mental health from being exhausted, you need a convenient solution. The good news is that leasing a secure self storage unit can help you get that kitchen holiday ready. My Storage Plus has multiple locations with a wide range of storage unit sizes and types to suit your needs. If you’re looking for short-term storage during the holidays, we’ve got you covered with flexible monthly leasing.
Organizing your kitchen isn’t as difficult as it sounds. Check the tips below, and don’t forget to give yourself the gift of a safe, affordable self storage unit.
Get Your Kitchen in Order
First, Declutter
The first step to organizing your kitchen is clearing your countertops to create ample space for meal prep.
Arrange your small appliances for efficiency. Think about ease of use and leave plenty of room. Next, assess whether any of them need to be repaired or replaced. Your My Storage Plus self storage unit is the perfect secure space to store rarely-used appliances. You can retrieve them after the holidays.
Decide what cookware you’ll need for cooking and banking, and store the rest. No more extra bakeware in the oven.
Remember to give that messy pantry some needed attention. Discard expired or spoiled food. Those chopped nuts from last year are probably rancid.Take inventory of baking supplies and spices so that you can stock up on needed items. Reorganize with containers, baskets, and plastic bins.
Next, Clean the Kitchen
Now that the clutter is gone, give the kitchen a thorough cleaning.
Clean Cupboards and Drawers
Give these areas a deep clean. Take the time to wipe down the shelves and remove any accumulated dust or debris. Use an ordinary paintbrush to sweep away any lingering dust from those hard-to-reach corners. Make your wood cabinets shine with good quality furniture polish.
Tackle the Large Appliances
To make easy work of the microwave, create a mixture of vinegar and water. Combine two tablespoons of vinegar with two cups of water in a microwave-safe bowl, then heat it for five minutes. You can add lemon for a fresh scent. The steam from this mixture will help loosen any grease or hardened food inside the microwave. Wipe away the mess with a soft cloth or paper towel.
The interior of your refrigerator can get a little scary. First, check for spoiled food, especially in the fruit and vegetable drawers. Once you’ve disposed of inedibles, it’s time to remove the remaining food. Scrub the shelves and bins with warm, soapy water. Clean the interior with vinegar and baking soda. Your clean fridge is ready to be filled.
Take care of large appliance exteriors and the stovetop with all purpose cleaners. For stainless steel, there are a variety of products that will remove fingerprints, streaks and grease.
Countertop Cleanup
Next, turn your attention to the countertops. Before returning your appliances, take the opportunity to wipe and disinfect the surfaces thoroughly. Your food prep areas will be clean and ready for use.
Finally, Check Linens and Tableware
If you’re hosting a family meal, check that seldom-used china, crystal, and silver flatware are clean and polished. Look at table linens to be sure they are free of spots and stains.
If your style is less formal, get high-quality paper plates and cups, and plastic flatware. Shop early before the shelves are bare, and keep these items in your self storage unit.
Don’t forget to purchase extra containers so that guests can enjoy leftovers at home. These can be purchased months ahead and stored until the big day.
Stock Up on Holiday Cuisine
Now that your kitchen is in order, it’s time to start stocking up on ingredients you’ll need for the family feasts.
Many stores now offer curbside service or delivery as an extra convenience. Make a list of everything you need, and order your staples for curbside pickup. You’ll spend less time in the store choosing fresh produce, meats, and specialty items. This major timesaver also ensures more control over your budget.
Final Thoughts
With some organization and decluttering, you’ll be creating 5-star holiday means. Get your kitchen holiday ready by packing up the clutter and moving it to an affordable self storage unit. Call My Storage Plus today to find a self storage unit conveniently located near your neighborhood.
