Instead of placing things horizontally, we place them vertically to maximise space and make each item easily accessible.
The kitchen, the heart of the home, often becomes a battlefield against clutter. Stacked plates, jumbled dishes, hidden spices… the struggle for order can seem never-ending. But don’t despair, the solution may lie in a Japanese technique that is revolutionising the way we organise our homes: vertical order, inspired by the KonMari method.
The KonMari Method
The KonMari method, popularised by Marie Kondo, teaches us to organise and clean our homes, leaving only what we really need and what brings us joy. Traditionally associated with tidying cupboards and drawers, the principle of vertical tidying can be applied just as successfully in the kitchen. Instead of stacking things horizontally, we organise them vertically to make the most of the space and to keep every item within easy reach.
Step 1: Get rid of unnecessary items: do they make you happy?
As in every KonMari organisation project, the first step is cleaning. Take a look at every item in the kitchen and ask yourself: Do I really use it? Is it giving me joy? If the answer to both questions is no, it’s time to say goodbye. Remember, it’s not about getting rid of useful items that you use often. It’s about freeing up space from things that take up space without adding value to your life. Consider selling or donating items that are in good condition and that you no longer need.
Get rid of duplicates and forgotten appliances.
Get rid not only of things that don’t bring you joy, but also of unnecessary duplicates and appliances you never use. How many can openers do you really need? That ice cream maker you used once last year? Freeing up space from these unnecessary or underused items will make a big difference to your kitchen organisation. Selling them on second-hand apps is a great way to get some money back.
Step 2: Organise by function – everything in its place
Once you’ve cleared out the unnecessary items, group the rest by function. Put cutlery under cutlery, pots under pots, spices under spices. This step simplifies the search for specific items and helps you avoid accumulating unnecessary items in the future. With a clear picture of what you have and where you keep it, it is easier to resist the temptation to buy utensils or ingredients you already have.
Step 3: The magic of verticality
Now comes the most important part: vertical storage. Instead of stacking plates and pan lids on top of each other, use vertical organisers and keep them upright in the cupboard. These organisers, available in a variety of materials and sizes, allow you to reach each plate or lid without having to remove the whole stack.
Organisers for pans and trays
For pans and trays, you can use tabs or hooks that allow you to store them vertically in cupboards or drawers. This arrangement not only saves space, but also protects non-stick surfaces from scratches and makes it easier to choose the right pan or tray for the occasion.
Spice view: tiered shelves and dividers
Spices, often forgotten at the bottom of the cabinet, can be organised vertically using stepped shelves or drawers with dividers. The aim is to keep all the jars visible, making it easier to identify each spice without having to buy duplicates. The tiered shelves lift the rear jars so that the front jars are not hidden.
Wrapped fabrics and textiles
Even fabrics and other kitchen textiles can benefit from a vertical arrangement. Wrap cloths and store them vertically in a drawer. This not only saves space, but also makes it easier to see and remove each cloth when you need it.
With the KonMari method and the vertical arrangement in the kitchen, you can turn this space into a functional, organised and harmonious place. Say goodbye to stacked crockery, untidy tools and lost spices. With a little effort and creativity, you can create a kitchen that is not only efficient, but also reflects your personal style and brings you joy.
