According to a national survey conducted by Pollfish on behalf of the Duck brand, almost three-quarters of Gen Z and millennial respondents, ranging from 16 to 42 years old, reported needing improved organizational systems in their homes, including kitchen counters.1
But fear not! We’ll help you identify the 13 most common countertop items sabotaging your kitchen’s style.
1. Knife Blocks
While convenient, knife blocks are notorious for collecting dust, bacteria, and mold, especially when knives are stored damp.
They can also dull your blades over time. Consider using an in-drawer knife organizer instead, preferably a washable variety to keep your counters tidy and your knives sanitary.
If drawer space is limited, opt for a wall-mounted knife holder. This alternative frees up valuable countertop real estate and adds a sleek, professional touch to your kitchen décor.
2. Soap Bottles
Nothing undermines a beautifully styled kitchen quite like a supermarket soap bottle. Decant your soap into more stylish dispensers or forgo the bottles with a deck-mounted soap pump to maintain a polished look.
Choose dispensers that match your kitchen’s aesthetic, or invest in luxurious hand and dish soaps with attractive packaging.
This simple upgrade will make your countertops look intentional and elevated.
3. Paper Towels & Holders
Paper towels are an unavoidable kitchen essential, but they don’t need to clutter your countertop. Instead, look for creative storage solutions that keep them within reach but out of sight.
Consider installing a wall-mounted paper towel holder inside a cabinet door or opt for a sleek, under-cabinet dispenser.
You can also store paper towels in a nearby pantry or drawer, ensuring they’re easily accessible when needed.
4. Small Appliances
Countertop appliances like toasters, blenders, and coffee makers can quickly consume valuable space, making your kitchen feel cramped and cluttered.
Be selective about which appliances earn a permanent spot on your counters, and store the rest in cabinets or pantries when not in use.
If you’re short on storage space, consider investing in multi-functional appliances that can handle multiple tasks, reducing the number of items you need to keep on hand.
5. Mismatched Utensil Holders
Utensil holders are practical, but a mismatched collection can make your counters look disorganized and chaotic. Streamline your utensil storage by choosing a cohesive set of holders that complement your kitchen’s style.
Get creative with your utensil holders by repurposing items like flower pots, vases, or decorative containers.
This unexpected touch will add personality and character to your countertops while organizing your utensils.
6. Excessive Decorative Items
While a few carefully curated decorative items can add warmth and personality to your kitchen, too many can make your counters feel cluttered and overwhelming. Be intentional with your décor choices, selecting pieces that serve a purpose or hold sentimental value.
Follow the “less is more” philosophy when styling your countertops.
A statement piece, like a beautiful vase or a unique sculpture, can make a stronger impact than a scattered collection of knick-knacks.
7. Overflowing Fruit Bowls
A bowl of fresh fruit can add a pop of color and freshness to your kitchen, but an overflowing fruit bowl can quickly become cluttered. Keep your fruit display simple and well-curated, focusing on key items that add visual interest.
Consider using a wire bowl or basket to showcase your fruit while allowing for air circulation, which helps prevent spoilage.
Regularly sort through your fruit bowl, removing overripe or damaged pieces to maintain a fresh and appealing display.
8. Stacks of Mail & Papers
The kitchen counter is often a dumping ground for mail, school papers, and other documents, creating a cluttered and disorganized appearance. Designate a specific spot for incoming papers, such as a wall-mounted organizer or a nearby desk or shelf.
Establish a routine for regularly sorting through your mail and papers, recycling or shredding items you no longer need.
You’ll create a more peaceful and inviting kitchen environment by keeping your counters clear of paper clutter.
9. Excessive Spices & Condiments
While having a well-stocked spice rack is essential for any home cook, an overabundance of spices and condiments can quickly overwhelm your countertops.
Be selective about which items you keep within reach, and store the rest in a nearby cabinet or pantry.
Consider investing in a sleek, wall-mounted spice rack or a magnetic spice jar system that keeps your favorite seasonings organized and easily accessible without wasting valuable counter space.
10. Bulky Cookbooks
Cookbooks can be a valuable resource and inspiration in the kitchen but can also contribute to countertop clutter. Instead of keeping a stack of bulky cookbooks on your counter, display a select few you use regularly or have attractive covers.
For the rest of your cookbook collection, consider storing them on a nearby shelf or in a dedicated cabinet.
You can also explore digital cookbook options, which allow you to access various recipes without taking up physical space.
11. Mismatched Dish Towels
Dish towels are a kitchen essential, but a jumble of mismatched towels can make your counters look messy and disorganized.
Invest in a cohesive dish towel set that complements your kitchen’s color scheme and style.
Establish a designated spot for storing clean dish towels, such as a drawer or a wall-mounted rack, and regularly launder and replace them to maintain a fresh and tidy appearance.
12. Excessive Cleaning Supplies
While keeping your kitchen clean and well-maintained is important, an overabundance of cleaning supplies can clutter your countertops and detract from your kitchen’s overall aesthetic. Store cleaning products in a nearby cabinet or under the sink, keeping only the essentials within reach.
Consider streamlining your cleaning routine by investing in multi-purpose products that can handle various tasks, reducing the number of bottles and sprays you need to keep on hand.
13. Outdated or Rarely Used Gadgets
Kitchen gadgets and tools can be tempting impulse purchases, but they often end up cluttering your counters and collecting dust. Take a critical look at your collection of gadgets and tools, and be honest about which items you use regularly.
Donate or dispose of outdated or rarely used items, freeing up valuable counter space for the tools you rely on most. Curating your collection of kitchen gadgets will create a more functional and efficient workspace.
By banishing these 13 countertop clutter culprits, you’ll be well on your way to achieving a designer-approved kitchen that’s both stylish and functional.
Remember, the key to maintaining a clutter-free space is to be intentional about what you allow on your counters and to establish regular routines for organizing and decluttering.
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Davin is a jack-of-all-trades but has professional training and experience in various home and garden subjects. He leans on other experts when needed and edits and fact-checks all articles.