
Kitchen countertops are often the heart of cooking spaces, but they can clutter quickly with kitchen items. When this happens, they become less functional and more difficult to maintain. If you want to keep your cooking area clean and organized, you should avoid leaving these 15 items out.
Knife Blocks

While knife blocks are convenient, they can easily harbor bacteria, especially in hard-to-clean slots. Additionally, these take up unnecessary space. You can arrange knives on magnetic wall strips to keep them neatly stored in your kitchen. A drawer insert can also keep knives organized.
Fruit Bowls

Although a fruit bowl can be visually appealing, professionals like the National Pest Management Association recommend keeping fresh produce off the countertops due to its tendency to attract pests and spoil more quickly. For best practice, store fruits and vegetables in the refrigerator or pantry to keep your counters hygienic.
Mail and Paper Clutter

You might need to change the habit of using your countertops as a landing spot for mail, papers, and other clutter. This looks messy and makes it harder to clean. To keep your space organized, store papers in a designated drawer or organizer. Ideally, these items should not have a place in the kitchen.
Coffee Makers

Even though coffee makers are a morning necessity for many, it’s best not to leave them on the countertop. Instead, consider storing them in your cabinets or creating a designated coffee station to maximize the countertop area. Once you have this in place, clutter can be reduced on countertops.
Dish Soap and Sponges

It’s not nice to leave items like dish soap and sponges on kitchen countertops. Leaving dish soap and sponges on the countertop looks untidy and creates a breeding ground for bacteria. Pros recommend storing these items under the sink or in a caddy to keep countertops clean and clutter-free.
Large Appliances

Bulky appliances like mixers, blenders, and toasters often occupy valuable countertop space in the kitchen. Professionals suggest storing these items in cabinets or pantry areas when not in use to keep your countertops clutter-free and give you more space for food preparation.
Cookbooks

Cookbooks may seem handy, but them on your countertops can take up space and make your cooking area feel cramped. Once you’re done using your cookbook, ensure you store them on shelves. They should only be on the countertop when you’re actively using them for a recipe.
Bread Boxes

Kitchen staples like bread boxes are now considered bulky and unnecessary. If you still have bread boxes in your kitchen, you should consider other ways to keep bread. Instead, store bread in the pantry or refrigerator to free up counter space and keep the place looking modern and streamlined.
Spice Racks

Designating a space for spices in the kitchen is essential. Spices can quickly create clutter when placed on countertops, and prolonged exposure to light and heat can affect their flavor. It’s best to keep spices in a drawer or cabinet to protect their quality and keep the place organized.
Microwaves

Microwaves are generally kept on countertops, but this practice can take up valuable space. These days, some interior designs make provision for microwaves in the form of built-in cabinets. So, copy such designs when renovating your kitchen or mount the microwave above the stoves.
Open Food Containers

Containers of food, such as snacks or dry goods, can cover up the space on your countertops. Besides, it attracts pests and creates a cluttered appearance. To maintain a clean space, it’s best to store food in sealed containers and arrange them in pantries.
Cutting Boards

Though convenient, leaving cutting boards on your countertops can make your kitchen cluttered. After using a cutting board, clean it and store it in a cabinet. If you want to be a little fancy, you can fix a pull-out cutting board drawer to free up counter space.
Pet Food Bowls

Kitchen countertops are not the place to place pet food bowls. Pet food bowls on the countertop can introduce bacteria and pet dander into your food preparation area. Professionals advise keeping pet supplies in designated areas away from food prep spaces for a cleaner kitchen.
Decorative Items

We understand the need to beautify your place with decorative items. These items can enhance a kitchen’s appeal, but placing flower vases or figurines on countertops occupies valuable space. To maintain functionality, you should avoid unnecessary decor. Clear, clutter-free countertops are more functional and easier to clean.
Kitchen Appliances You Rarely Use

Small appliances like juicers, waffle makers, or slow cookers can occupy much space on your kitchen countertops. Since they aren’t used frequently, you should find a place for them. It’s advisable to keep them in cabinets or pantries to free up countertops for everyday tasks.