Easy Ways to Hide Clutter in the Kitchen
When my four oldest kids were all living at home, clutter in the kitchen was a continual problem. I wanted a neat and clean house, and I had to find ways to hide the clutter in the kitchen, especially when entertaining guests. I figured out a few different ways to hide and contain the mess, and it resulted in better methods of organization. I was able to eliminate the junk drawer, and most of the time the kitchen looked neat and tidy.
Use Pretty Baskets to Hide the Mess
Within the past decade, baskets have become more popular than ever. These days it is easy to find beautiful lined baskets. Plain varieties can be spray painted to coordinate with absolutely any color, and they are perfect for trying to hide kitchen clutter. Buy two or three coordinating baskets, and place them out of the way. I kept a basket on top of the refrigerator and two others on top of my freestanding pantries. I used the baskets to hide kitchen clutter that included children’s artwork, coupons, writing instruments and more.
Hide Clutter in a Large Breadbox
A large breadbox can be used to hide more than just bread and related items. It can be used to successfully hide kitchen clutter. Store bread in the refrigerator or in a kitchen cabinet, and use the breadbox to quickly hide clutter when guests are due to arrive. A large breadbox can hold papers and many other miscellaneous items that do not have a home.
Give Each Family Member a Clutter Container
No one should have to corral clutter all on their own. If the entire family is causing a mess in the kitchen, than everyone should be held responsible for their clutter. Give each family member a small plastic tote with a lid of a different color. If space allows, keep the containers under the sink, in an adjoining utility room or in a large cabinet. When trying to quickly clean up the kitchen, each person can easily put their small items in their perspective container until those things can be put away in their proper place.
Source: Personal and Professional Home Design and Decorating Experience