12 Things That Should Never Go On Kitchen Counters, According to Experts

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The kitchen counter is one of the most used spaces in the house and, sadly, also one of the most abused. It’s a space where you can chop veggies, sip coffee, and host the occasional family debate about who really ate the last cookie. But, as any home organization expert will tell you, it can also quickly become a space that becomes cluttered chaos if you’re not careful.

The key to keeping your kitchen functional and fabulous is knowing what should not be on your counters. Maintaining is about creating a safe, efficient, and enjoyable environment Plus, it’s easier on the eyes.

Remove these 12 things from your counter to transform your kitchen spaces from a catastrophe to a culinary haven.

1. Piles of Paper

We all have that one stack of mail, bills, and art projects we swear we’ll get to—someday. However, home organization experts agree that these piles are better suited for a dedicated mail station or a filing system.

Papers attract dust and also pose a fire hazard if left too close to hot surfaces. Designate a specific spot elsewhere for paper clutter (like the office). The trick is to sort through your papers regularly, maybe once a week, so you don’t recreate a little Mount Everest on your counter.

2. Raw Meat

You might consider prepping tonight’s dinner directly on the counter, especially if you have stone countertops. But it’s a bad idea. Placing raw meat on your countertop is an open invitation for bacteria like Salmonella and E. coli. These germs can easily spread to other foods and surfaces, leading to potential foodborne illnesses.

Always use a glass cutting board designated for raw meat and clean it thoroughly after each use. Your countertops may look clean, but that doesn’t mean they’re free of germs. Regular disinfection is your best friend in keeping your kitchen a safe zone.

3. Wet Sponges

What harm can a little wet sponge do? They may be sneaky culprits for spreading bacteria and mold. Sponges should be wrung out and stored in a ventilated holder to dry completely between uses.

This simple habit can extend the life of your sponge and prevent unwanted odors. Swap out sponges regularly and microwave them for a minute to kill bacteria (just make sure they’re wet first).

4. Electronics

It’s tempting to use the kitchen as a mini command center, complete with charging phones, tablets, and possibly even a laptop. However, placing electronics on the counter is risky. Plus, these gadgets take up valuable workspace.

They’re also vulnerable to spills and splatters, which could lead to costly damage. Establish a charging station away from the kitchen to keep your electronics safe and your counters clear.

5. Cooking Oils

While keeping cooking oils within arm’s reach seems convenient, storing them on the counter can lead to sticky, greasy messes. Oils degrade faster when exposed to light and heat. Instead, store oils in a cool, dark cabinet to maintain their quality.

If wanted, you can transfer oils into attractive, labeled bottles that are easily accessible when needed. This keeps your kitchen looking chic and your ingredients at their best.

6. Cleaning Products

Cleaning supplies are essential for keeping your kitchen sparkling and germ-free, but they don’t belong on your counters. They clutter your space and can also be hazardous if they come into contact with food.

Store cleaning products under the sink or in a designated cupboard, out of reach of children and away from food prep areas. You can use caddies or bins to group products by use, making them easy to grab when needed.

7. Bulky Appliances

Blenders, mixers, food processors, and juicers are handy, but they can quickly dominate your countertop space. It’s best to store them out of sight until you need them. This not only frees up counter space but also creates a more streamlined and organized kitchen.

Consider using your pantry to store bulky items. If that’s not an option, choose one or two appliances you use most often to keep on the counter and store the rest.

8. Food

While it may be common to leave fruit bowls or bread loaves out for easy access, it’s not the best practice for long-term freshness. Keeping food out can attract pests and lead to quicker spoilage.

Experts suggest storing perishables in the fridge or sealed containers to prevent contamination and extend shelf life. For dry foods like pasta and cereal, utilize airtight jars and baskets, and choose a dedicated bowl for fresh produce that needs to ripen to minimize what’s out in the open.

9. Knife Blocks

Knife blocks are a classic countertop staple, but they’re not always the safest or most hygienic option. They can harbor bacteria and take up significant counter space.

Having knives on the counter or in an easily accessible drawer becomes even more hazardous when children are around. Instead, consider using wall-mounted magnetic strips to save space and keep knives within reach while safely out of harm’s way.

10. Spices

Spices add flavor to our meals, but they don’t need to live on your counters. When exposed to light and heat, spices can also lose their potency. To maintain their flavor and aroma, store spices in a cool, dark cabinet or drawer, preferably in airtight containers.

If you want to do extra credit, organize spices alphabetically or by cuisine for easy access. Invest in a spice rack or organizer to keep everything tidy.

11. Kitchen Decor

It’s tempting to accent your kitchen with decorative items like flowers, candles, or other trinkets, but too many decorations can easily overwhelm your counter space. While it’s fantastic to add a personal touch, moderation is key.

A well-curated approach to decorative items that fit your style will strike that perfect balance between functionality and aesthetics. Focus on a fun sign or two on the walls and keep the trinkets to a minimum.

12. Mugs and Water Glasses

Mugs and water glasses are often used daily, but they don’t need to take up valuable counter space. Instead, keep them in designated cabinets or shelves.

Stack mugs and glasses neatly to save space. If cabinet space is limited, consider hanging a mug rack beneath your cabinets for a fun and functional display.

Source

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