Читать книгу 1001 Ideas for Kitchen Organization, New Edition - Joseph R. Provey - Страница 12

Don’t buy bigger than you need. Careful selection of coffee makers, toasters, and wine racks can make the difference between ample and inadequate counter space. Similarly, bulky food packaging— especially when it comes to snack foods—can contribute to an overcrowded cabinet or refrigerator. When possible, avoid buying individual-size packages because the packaging-to-contents ratio is high.

Downsizing large appliances can make an even bigger difference when it comes to getting the most from the space you have. Many manufacturers, inspired by trends in Europe, offer compact ranges, fridges, freezers, ovens, and dishwashers. Multipurpose appliances offer space-conserving opportunities as well. Smart refrigerators are available with touch screens that help keep you organized and entertained. (See “Smart Fridges,” page 200.) A convection microwave oven cooks in either mode, making a dedicated microwave redundant in many cases. An over-the-range microwave, combined with a range hood, is another space-conserving combo. There are even under-counter combination washer/dryers.

Split refrigeration allows you to use prime kitchen space more efficiently. Put the fridge near all the action and put the less-frequented freezer on the outskirts. Use the free space you’ve created for items you need for meal preparation.

Compact and multipurpose countertop appliances, such as this combination processor-blendermixer, can save space, too.

SMARTtip

Save Money and Space

Buy nonperishable items and paper goods in bulk, but store only enough for a week or two in the kitchen. Put the rest on utility shelves in a basement, garage, or storage room. When you run low in the kitchen, replenish.

Dishwashers come in many sizes, including this compact 18-inch (45cm) unit. Buy the size that fits your needs, and you’ll conserve space and energy.

Cooktops, such as this compact five-burner unit, offer another way to put storage where you need it. Think how nice it would be to have your pots and pans organized in deep drawers right where you need them.