Store Items Where You Use Them--Kitchen

Tips for Tuesday

Although this makes perfect sense, many people, for whatever reason, don't store items near where they use them. Maybe whoever helped them move in decided where things should go. Maybe the space is better designed elsewhere for what you want to store. Maybe you were pressed for time and just put things wherever they would fit.

Whatever the reason, your life will run more smoothly if you follow this simple rule--store items near where you use them. Here are some tips for the kitchen:

• Plates and flatware should be near the table. This will make it easier to set the table for meals.
• Glasses should be near the sink--your water source.
• Mugs should be near the coffee maker.
• Pots and pans should be near the stove.
• Bakeware should be near the oven.
• Utensils for cooking should be near the stove.
• Plastic bowls for storing food should be near the refrigerator.
• Appliances you use every day can be on the counter. Those you don't use on a regular basis should be in a pantry or cabinet.
• Spices should be near the stove, as should other cooking ingredients.
• Large serving pieces that are used often should be in lower cabinets near the table or stove.
• Serving pieces that are for holidays or special occasions should be stored up high or in the pantry.
• Vitamins and supplements should be near the sink.

If your cabinets aren't suitable for the items where they should be, consider converting some space with pull-out shelves or vertical dividers.