When was the last time you checked under the kitchen sink cabinet? You may often overlook this area because it is filled with so many odds and ends, and you can’t keep it organised.
Most homeowners tend to think they can store anything under the sink, which is one of the big mistakes to avoid. There are some items cleaning professionals don’t recommend keeping in your under-the-sink cabinet.
Don’t Put These Items Under Your Kitchen Sink Cupboard
When people maximise space in a small kitchen, under the sink is an ideal storage place. The experts warn, however, that keeping these items under the sink is not the best idea for safety reasons.
Paper Towels
As one of the most damp places, under the sink is not the right spot to store paper products. They can be easily damaged by moisture. Instead, store paper products such as napkins and towels in a dry place protected from water and humidity. You can place them in another cabinet to make them more accessible.
Small Appliances
There is never enough space to store small appliances such as a blender, food mixer or pressure cooker, but don’t keep them under the kitchen sink. A leak or excessive moisture could quickly ruin these small electronic appliances. You should put them on a countertop or a kitchen shelf.
You can search for layout ideas for kitchen appliances to use the space efficiently while ensuring that they won’t be damaged.
Cookware and Dishes
Moisture is one of the most important factors to consider when it comes to keeping cookware and dishes under the kitchen cabinets. It can tarnish your stainless steel pots, rust your cast iron skillets, or even weaken the overall quality of your ceramics. Furthermore, the potential for leaks from pipes or appliances in the kitchen adds another layer of risk. You should store them in a dry, safe location away from the moisture.
Harsh Chemicals
Many people prefer to store everyday cleaning products with harsh chemicals under the sink. Professionals recommend keeping cleaning detergents that are not safe in different areas, particularly if you have pets or young children. They can cause potential health issues. Make sure such items are kept higher in the kitchen, bathroom, or utility closet.
Flammable Products
Products such as thinners, polishes, paints, and some household products can burst into flames under the right conditions. For this reason, you should avoid storing flammable products under the sink as well. Instead, it’s safest for them to be in а garage or another well-ventilated space.
Dishwasher Pods
Most people prefer to store dishwasher pods under the sink, which is usually next to the dishwasher in most kitchens. Obviously, this is the right option for easy access. However, it isn’t the safest for pets or children. You can place them on a high shelf in the laundry room, for example.
Pet Food
Pet food shouldn’t be stored next to human nutrition in the pantry, but it should also not be kept under the kitchen sink. As a result of the humidity in this area, mould and mildew can grow on food. Chemicals from cleaning supplies under the sink could contaminate it. You should keep pet food in a separate spot to avoid contamination.
Pantry Items
In a small storage space, it makes sense to make use of every available space that you can. However, keeping cereal boxes, pasta, dried spices, potatoes or onions under your kitchen sink may not be a good idea. It isn’t ideal to store food in a moist environment, as water can spoil them.
How to Organise the Storage Area Under Your Kitchen Sink
Keeping the area under the kitchen sink in tip-top shape requires regular inspection. You should check and organise it monthly, quarterly and annually. If you want to make the area under your kitchen sink more functional, there are easy steps you can follow.
- The first thing you need to do is remove everything from the kitchen cupboard. Get rid of any expired, leaking, worn-out, or nearly empty items you have on hand. You will be able to see what you have and what you need to replace or refresh when you declutter
- Sort the remaining items according to their use. For example, put the cleaning supplies in one group and the dishwashing supplies in another.
- Cover the bottom of the cabinet with a waterproof liner to make regular maintenance easy. Choosing a colourful pattern will not only brighten up the space but will also make cleaning up any spills or leaks easy.
- Take a measurement of the area to determine how much space you have available. This essential step will help you to choose the right storage organiser that fits the size of your under-kitchen spot.
- Keeping spray bottles organised under the sink is easy with a tension rod hanging across a cabinet. By turning them by the spray triggers, you’ll free up more space below for supplies bins and baskets. For a lot of bottles, choose a screw-mounted model. Otherwise, a heavy-duty tension rod will work.
- Consider the option of utilising the cabinet door for extra storage space. You can hang small boxes for sponges and grocery bags on the inside of your door or hooks for cleaning brushes and gloves.
Takeaways
- Group the similar items and make sure all are stored in the appropriate places. This suggestion can help in maintaining a well-organised and clutter-free area.
- Create a cleaning schedule. A regular home cleaning routine can prevent messes under the sink from building up.
- Declutter expired cleaning products and items you no longer use.
- Check for any leaks or water damage on a monthly basis.
- Inspect the plumbing and fittings for signs of wear or damage and repair them if necessary.
- Choose natural cleaning products. There will be less possibility of contamination when storing other items under your sink. You will find various everyday household items like vinegar and baking soda that serve as effective cleaning solutions.
