Though designing a kitchen is fairly simple, making changes in the design and layout after it has been completely constructed is an expensive exercise. Sometimes kitchens are designed without consulting the user and in those circumstances redesigning may be required to make it comfortable for use. Improperly designed cabinets and shelves with unsafe handles or ill-fitting sink and poor quality counter are some of the issues that force owners to redesign their kitchen. To avoid this situation we have collated 13 essential tips to help our readers, so they can pass on this knowledge to their kitchen planners and save money which can be used for more useful purposes.
1. Overstuffed fruit bowl
Fruit bowls are attractive on the dining table and even on the kitchen island giving a stylish edge to the region. While one bowl of fruits is sufficient for a kitchen counter as it can be used for decoration or munching on while cooking, too may fruit bows can crowd the area. Try to limit the quantity and size of fruit bowl in the kitchen for a clutter free region.
2. Flower vase on kitchen island
Though flower vases on a kitchen island or window look attractive and colorful especially in a neutral toned kitchen like this it is still considered a non-functional item. Culinary experts feel that non-functional items in a small kitchen are unnecessary as the region is used to cook food.Sometimes tiny insects from these flowers can stray into the food items on the counter that could be dangerous.
3. Avoid stocking books unrelated to kitchen
Even if the dining region is close to the kitchen do not make a habit of stocking books, and magazines on shelves in the kitchen. Try to keep only recipe books in the kitchen that are frequently used to avoid crowding the shelves.
4. Stack away appliance not regularly used daily
Home appliances and kitchen accessories that are not used on a daily basis should not be placed on the counter. This can lead to overcrowding on the counter and these items can get splattered with food particles during cooking. Stock these essential but not frequently used items in shelves or cabinets specifically created for them to keep them free of dust and grime.
5. Reduce collectibles
Kitchens also become a place to store collectibles gifted by friends and family that may not be used in the region. Keeping souvenirs and memorabilia bought during overseas tours that cannot be used in the kitchen during cooking is a whimsical practice as these objects just consume precious shelf and floor space.
6. Keep checking labels of pantry items
In our endeavor to keep a well stocked modern kitchen sometimes we get so many perishable and non-perishable items that some of them may lie unused far beyond their expiry date. Usually exotic canned and bottled products that are not part of daily cuisine and are purchased for specific recipes are forgotten in the pantry for a long period. It is advisable to check expiry date of all items in the refrigerator and pantry on a regular basis to avoid wastage of items and money.
7. Timeless beauty of silver
Love your family silverware? The kitchen is no place to display heirloom silverware be it tea-sets or dinnerware as they may accumulate dirt or stains. Family treasures like silverware is best suited in a display unit in the dining room or inside humidity controlled cupboards which can be brought out for display when special guests are home.
8. AvoidToo many kitchen plants
Although plants look good in a large kitchen that can accommodate them these should be limited to specific location in the region. In this country style kitchen we see how slim non-flowering plants are located in different areas to allow sufficient work space in the region.
9. Keep away infrequently used utensils
Dishes that are hung on the open shelf and on wire hangers like this may collect dust if left exposed for a long time. Instead of wasting long hours on cleaning such grimy vessels on a regular basis it is best to keep away rarely used pots and pans within cabinets.
10. Avoid stacking old newspapers
Storage area for old newspapers should be limited to old cardboard boxes that can be stacked away in a corner of the hall or dining region cupboard. Stacking them in the open within shelves in the kitchen or dining area will led to accumulation of dust and insects that could be dangerous.
11. Excess baskets and jugs on counter
Baskets and jugs are the most commonly used items in the kitchen and are also extremely useful and versatile. But too many can clutter up the region and in this country style kitchen they cover up majority area of the counter. These objects used for their ability to stock and hold essentials can become an impediment when urgent preparations are being made for a big meal.
12. Carpets in the kitchen
Though floor mats are essential for a kitchen to mop up water or any liquids spilled on the floor, carpets should be kept away from the region for the simple reason of safety. Carpets are unhygienic as they can accumulate spilled food over a period of time and can also catch fire easily from electric sparks or carelessly thrown matches.
13. Appropriate containers for accessories
Essential kitchen accessories like knives, ladles, spoons, tongs etc. take up sizeable space on the counter even if there are separate stands for them. So the best way to accommodate these objects would be to keep them within specific drawers that are appropriate for their size and weight. Kitchen manufacturers sometimes provide inbuilt drawers within cabinets that have special crevices built for easy accommodation of these objects.
As a kitchen is a special place where essential meals of the day are made, every house-owner should have Dynamic Kitchen ideas to make the region ideal for cooking.