How many times have you heard a host or hostess say, “Oh no, I don’t need any help in cleaning up. This is a one person kitchen?” So many of these important rooms are indeed small, but in many instances, they are big enough but stuffed with gizmos and appliances (and in-laws) that we don’t really need to see and use every day. Counter space should be reserved for those things we use often; otherwise it is a situation tantamount to keeping Christmas trees and stockings up all times of the year. Clutter by any other name, however fancy and expensive, my friends, is still clutter.
Take, for example, a cappuccino or bread-maker or pasta machine. No one is saying these aren’t wonderful things to have; they certainly are. The question is, “where are you gong to put these rather large items in your kitchen? The truth is, that more often than not, these conveniences become sources for dust, clutter and guilt feelings when we don’t use them. Consider a US News and World Report poll that found that one in five Americans owns a fondue pot but only one percent has actually used it in five years! Thus it also goes for yogurt makers, popcorn and ice-cream makers and sandwich presses. Don’t buy them. Who in Sam Hill makes ice cream today anyway? (No one I know or have ever met, that’s for sure!)
Space is what you need. Whether its inner, outer, gimme or counter, you need it and these inconveniences are standing in your way!
Do not however, in your purging enthusiasm, even consider throwing out or giving away the following:
1. the food processor.
A must have and use for anyone who cooks at all. I use mine several times a day and could never be without it.
2. the blender.
An appliance you will always need; keep it on hand.
3. the microwave.
The queen of convenience for the busy cook. Never store it away anywhere.
So there you go. Get busy. Company’s coming and so put those things away somewhere and trip the light fantastic. Be careful though. You don’t want to trip over anything else!
Related Articles:
“The Colander: An Important Kitchen Tool”