How to Declutter Under the Kitchen Sink

The area under the kitchen sink is notorious for being a cluttered and chaotic space. It’s often the go-to spot for storing cleaning supplies, trash bags, and various odds and ends, making it challenging to find what you need when you need it. However, with a little organization and decluttering, you can transform this often-overlooked area into an efficient and orderly storage space. In this guide, I’ll show you how, with practical tips and strategies, to declutter and organize under the kitchen sink.

Why Declutter Under the Kitchen Sink?

Before we dive into the how-to, let’s explore why it’s essential to declutter under the kitchen sink:

1. Efficiency: An organized space under the sink allows you to find cleaning supplies and other essentials quickly, streamlining your daily routines.
2. Safety: Reducing clutter makes it easier to identify and address any leaks or potential issues under the sink.
3. Space Optimization: By decluttering and organizing, you can maximize the available storage space, making room for items that truly belong.
4. Aesthetic Appeal: An organized space is visually pleasing and can enhance the overall look of your kitchen. Who wouldn’t want a beautiful under the sink cupboard?

Under the Sink Organization Inspiration

Pinterest is an amazing resource for inspiration for planning your organized under sink cupboard. Here are some of my favourites:

Getting Started with Decluttering:

Let’s begin the process of decluttering and organizing under the kitchen sink:

1. Empty the Area

The first step is to completely empty the space under the sink. This will allow you to assess what you have and start with a clean slate.

2. Sort and Categorize

Once everything is out in the open, sort the items into categories. Common categories may include cleaning supplies, trash bags, recycling bins, and household tools.

3. Purge Expired or Unused Items

Go through each category and identify items that are expired, damaged, or no longer needed. Dispose of expired cleaning products and any other items that are beyond use.

4. Consolidate Duplicate Items

You may find that you have duplicates of certain cleaning supplies or tools. Consolidate these duplicates to free up space.

5. Prioritize Essentials

Identify the essential items you use regularly. These are the items that should have easy access under the sink.

6. Relocate Items

Consider if any items would be better stored elsewhere in the kitchen or in a different part of the house. For example, you might move some cleaning supplies to a laundry room or garage.

7. Invest in Organizational Tools

To keep things orderly, invest in some organizational tools such as under-sink shelving units, pull-out trays, or bins.

8. Label Containers

Label containers or bins to make it easy to identify what’s inside. This will help you maintain the organization over time.

9. Clean the Space

Before putting items back under the sink, take the opportunity to clean the space thoroughly. Wipe down the interior of the cabinet and address any lingering odors.

10. Establish Zones

Assign specific zones under the sink for different categories of items. For example, designate one area for cleaning supplies, another for trash bags, and a separate space for household tools.

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Tips for Organizing Under the Sink

Now that you’ve decluttered, let’s explore some tips for effectively organizing under the kitchen sink:

1. Use Adjustable Shelves

Consider installing adjustable shelves if your cabinet allows. These shelves can be customized to fit the height of your items, maximizing storage space.

2. Install Pull-Out Bins

Pull-out bins or trays are excellent for keeping cleaning supplies easily accessible. They prevent items from getting lost in the back of the cabinet. Clear shoe boxes with drawers make amazing storage solutions for under the sink – store your sponges/dishwasher tabs/laundry tabs in these for easy access.

3. Hang Hooks or Racks

Use the inside of the cabinet doors to hang hooks or racks for storing items like scrub brushes, gloves, or dish towels.

4. Keep Trash and Recycling Separate

If you store trash bags or recycling bins under the sink, designate separate spaces for each. This makes it more convenient to access what you need.

5. Store Hazardous Items Safely

If you have young children or pets, be sure to store hazardous cleaning products out of their reach. Consider childproof locks for the cabinet doors.

6. Use Clear Containers

Transparent containers or bins allow you to see the contents at a glance, making it easier to find what you need. You can also decant your cleaning products into bottles so they look more aesthetically pleasing but it’s important to label what each one is.

7. Group Like Items

Group similar items together to create a sense of order. For instance, keep all dishwashing supplies in one area and floor cleaning products in another.

8. Consider Under-Sink Organizers

Under-sink organizers, such as sliding drawers or caddies, can help you make the most of vertical space and keep items neatly arranged. Lazy Susans are great for cleaning products as they make everything easily accessible.

9. Regularly Check for Leaks

Keep an eye out for any signs of leaks or water damage under the sink. Regular checks can help you catch and address issues early.

10. Maintain the Organization

Once you’ve decluttered and organized under the sink, make an effort to maintain the order. Periodically review the contents to ensure that everything remains organized.

Decluttering and organizing under the kitchen sink can have a significant impact on the overall functionality of your kitchen. It’s a small yet important step toward creating an organized and efficient living space. By following these tips and making a habit of keeping the area under the sink tidy, you’ll enjoy the benefits of a clutter-free and visually appealing kitchen. So, roll up your sleeves, declutter under the kitchen sink, and take the first step toward an organized and efficient kitchen space.

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