• Always keep your kitchen clean and organized for easier use.kitchen image by yong hong from Fotolia.com
  
  An organized kitchen creates more functionality within your dining and culinary space. Keep certain items, such as pots and pans, separate from foods and designate a shelf in a pantry or cupboard for spices. Pots and pans generally should be stored in the bottom of a cupboard, while plates should be stored higher.
  
  

Pantry

• The pantry can be one of the most vital spaces in a kitchen because they generally are much larger than cupboards and can be used to store extra items or food. If you don't have a pantry, buy a rolling pantry at a home improvement or department store. Place it against an empty wall.
  
  Most pantries have four or five sections. Store canned goods or other heavy items toward the bottom. Store flour, sugar and other necessities on one shelf toward the middle. Place light items such as cereal boxes or popcorn on top shelves.
  
  

Drawer Space

• Divide a drawer into sections using small baskets and label the baskets according to what is in them. Place spatulas, ladles and cooking essentials in one drawer and then place spoons, knives and forks in another drawer. Store pot holders or aprons in another drawer.
  
  

Accessories

• Counter accessories make it easy to keep items handy, yet contained. Store wooden spoons in large ceramic containers or keep spices on a rolling spice rack. Use ceramic containers to store sugar or other baking needs. Magnetic spice jars are handy storage items and can be placed on the side of a refrigerator.
  
  

Wall Baskets

• Wall baskets can be found at home decor stores and online. Mount one or two baskets and use them to store recipe cards, aprons or other items.