KITCHEN FIXTURES
Just as the kitchen is the heart of the home, many kitchen islands are the heart of the kitchen space. As a result, they become a resting place for a wide range of items that do not belong there. A cluttered kitchen island detracts from the overall look and functionality of the space. To maintain the practical and aesthetic appeal of this vital kitchen focal point, it is essential to be mindful about what does and doesn’t belong on its valuable surface. By knowing what to avoid, you can keep your kitchen island functioning as a versatile and inviting space for your culinary and household requirements.
Most of us strive to create a kitchen that is usable as well as visually striking. The majority of the items that should be avoided on the kitchen island should have their own designated area in the kitchen rather than taking up valuable counter space. Making sure that everything has a place in your kitchen will help you work more efficiently and feel more organized.
Excessive Appliances
Appliances like air fryers, instant pots, and toasters do not need a home on the kitchen island because they take up valuable work space and make it feel cluttered. While it can be a hassle to get these appliances out when you need them, it is worth it to keep the kitchen island clear. Rather than leave these appliances on display, store them in a designated cabinet when they are not in use. For frequently used appliances, consider a dedicated work area or a modified cabinet so that you can access them easier.
Unused Decorative Items
Decorative items can accumulate on an island and should be purged on a regular basis because, while they add personality, they can also interfere with its primary purpose. Instead, limit your decorations to items that are pertinent to a specific season, occasion, or activity. When the event or season is over, store the items and bring them out again when the situation requires it. To avoid overcrowding the island, limit your decorative items to just one or two carefully chosen pieces.
Paperwork
Because islands double as the kitchen table, it has become a workspace for every activity, including schoolwork and paying the bills. This inevitably leads to the piling up of work and school-related papers. Cooking and papers do not mix well; they can get damaged or discolored when they come into contact with food and create an untidy environment for food preparation.
Create a separate drop zone for mail and bills away from the kitchen island to keep it tidy. Also, make it a rule to remove all paperwork, such as homework, from the island once the work is completed. If paperwork is left behind, designate a basket away from the island where you can store the papers until they are claimed.
Sharp Knives or Tools
Knives and sharp tools do not belong on a kitchen island because they can pose a significant safety risk in high-traffic areas. You cannot constantly monitor the island, but if these objects are left unattended, they can cause unintended cuts to children and pets who can access the island. These objects can also slip off the island and damage the floor. These items belong on a magnetic strip away from the busy kitchen hub, or in a designated drawer.
Paper Towel Dispenser
The island may seem like a convenient place to store a paper towel dispenser, but it is not a necessary addition to the kitchen island or any kitchen countertop. It disrupts the visual flow of the kitchen, takes up valuable workspace, and can be just as effective stored in a convenient cabinet. Consider mounting a dispenser inside a cabinet door that is close to your food prep area. This will keep the paper towels within reach but not disrupt the aesthetic flow of the kitchen.
Cookware
While most people do not store cookware such as pots, pans, and crockery on the kitchen island, they do occasionally make their way there and can take a long time to be stored during busy seasons. Make a practice of clearing away all your cookware as soon as you have used it and it is clean and dry. For frequently used pieces, consider installing a wall-mounted or ceiling holder so that you can access them and store them easily.
Cooking Utensils
Storing cooking utensils on the kitchen island is a common practice, but it is not as helpful as many believe. Visible utensils like spatulas, whisks, and serving spoons can create visual disarray in the kitchen. Additionally, they take up valuable food prep, dining, and serving space on the island. Utensils are best organized into an easily accessible drawer near your food prep and cooking areas.
Electronics
Storing electronics on the kitchen island is not a good idea for many reasons. This includes phones, laptops, and tablets. First, they will be prone to damage from food spills, grease, and moisture. Second of all, they are in a busy area, so there is a greater chance that they will be knocked over or crushed accidentally.
While it is convenient to work at the kitchen island, you should not leave your electronics unattended. Instead, always store them on a desk or in a computer bag after you finish your work.
Miscellaneous Clutter
The kitchen island is a natural drop spot for items like keys, leashes, loose change, and wallets. Items like this can quickly build up and make the island feel messy and disorganized. This will reduce the island’s visual appeal while also making it less useful for food service and preparation.
Instead, create a designated area away from the island, if possible, to drop these items. Sort through it each month to ensure that it doesn’t build up. If you must store these items on the island, use a basket that will fit all the items so that it looks neat and intentional.
Food Staples/Spices
Food items like often-used staples, oils, and spices can feel convenient on the kitchen island, but these items are not necessary and will increase the clutter on the surface. Instead, create a space in your pantry for these items. Keep them organized in containers and spice racks that are easily accessible. Keeping them in a dark pantry or drawer will also keep them from excessive sunlight that can degrade their quality.
