Kitchen Drawer Organization: A Zone Method for Every Drawer

Kitchen drawers get messy when items live far from where they're used. The zone method puts things within one step of the task.

Map your zones

• Cooking zone (next to the stove): spatulas, tongs, ladles, pot holders.
• Prep zone (by the main counter): knives, measuring cups, peelers, cutting boards.
• Storage zone (near the fridge): foil, wraps, bags, containers.
• Serving zone (near the table or dishwasher): flatware, serving spoons.

Empty, sort, return

Empty one drawer at a time. Remove duplicates (most kitchens have three can openers), broken items and anything not used in a year. Return only what belongs in that zone.

Inserts that help

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• Expandable bamboo drawer organizers fit odd drawer widths.
• Adjustable drawer dividers for deep drawers with lids and tools.
• An in-drawer knife block is safer than loose knives.
• A wrap and foil organizer for the storage zone.

The junk drawer, tamed

Keep one junk drawer with small trays: batteries, tape and scissors, pens, takeout menus, and a catch-all. Empty the catch-all monthly.

Next up: the pantry. See our 12 pantry essentials under $25.