You know those annoying activities that waste your time but keep happening? A few seconds here, a few there…over and over… it adds up. Ready for a few easy tips?
Today’s five tips are for the kitchen:
- What state is your Tupperware drawer in? Think about how much time you spend trying to find the right lid to go with your Tupperware or glassware. Annoying, right?
-Consider how much Tupperware or glassware you really need and then pare down.
-Gave your lids a home based on shape. I use small baskets- one for circles, one for squares. It works wonders.
-Don’t let Tupperware that needs to be returned to someone land in your drawer. It’s just one more thing to fish around each time you’re in there.
2. Do you have a hell drawer for utensils? It used to take me forever to find the right measuring spoon in my own kitchen hell drawer.
-Give those items that are used once or twice a year a separate home. (I’m lookin’ at you, turkey baster).
-Get rid of things that seemed like a good idea when you got them. Nice then, wasted space now.
-Try to place similar-sized things together. Marie Kondo would even recommend using cardboard boxes to compartmentalize things by size inside the drawer. Can’t say I’ve got as far as the boxes, but it’s a great idea.
3. Next time a pot scorches, try boiling an inch of water, a dash of dish soap, and 2 Tbsp of baking soda before you start scrubbing. Should come right off.
4. Keep trash liners at the bottom of your trash can, so they’re right there as soon as you take the dirty trash bag out. A little trick I learned working at a summer camp – works just as well at home!
5. Do you spend time stacking and restacking things in your pantry, just so it all fits? Or just to remind yourself what’s there? Next time you find yourself doing this:
-Get rid of (i.e. donate) anything older than 3ish months.
-Set a goal to only buy perishable food for a certain amount of time, during which you will make meals that will use up the non-perishables in your pantry.
Bonus Tip:
When it comes to food, buy only what you need. I know this is easier said than done, but you can do it.
And remember – one thing at a time!
Remember to take a breath as you think about all the things you could do to make your kitchen waste less of your time. Lists are only a tool. You are capable and amazing and a great mom. You’ll chip at this one thing at a time. You’ll be saving time before you know it.
****I’m curious, what do you do in your kitchen to save time? Reply in the comments below. May our ideas inspire each other to save some precious time! Go mama!