Читать книгу 1001 Ideas for Kitchen Organization, New Edition - Joseph R. Provey - Страница 13

Refrigerators, walk-in pantries, and refrigerated wine cellars were made for storage. It may not be as evident, however, that other appliances present storage opportunities. Your range probably has a storage drawer at the bottom or along the side. It’s usually big enough for keeping broiling and roasting pans. Look above the range, too. Some range hoods include built-in warming shelves and racks that keep needed utensils close at hand. Having two dishwashers has also gained favor in one- or two-person households. Put the plates, bowls, glasses, and flatware you use daily in one of the dishwashers; run a load; take the items out as you need them; and put them in the other dishwasher when they’re dirty again. The dual dishwashers do double-duty: washing and storing.

An appliance’s main function is to do its job, but some have built-in storage, too. This coffeemaker has a warming drawer that keeps cups where you need them.

SMARTtip

Space-Saving Containers

When space is tight, use stackable square or rectangular containers on counters and shelves and in the fridge because they take up less space than round ones and are easier to keep organized than plastic bags. Seek out containers that nest or collapse when not in use. Use rectangular baskets and other containers to store small items on shelves. They store compactly, and you can quickly pull them down to the countertop, where it’s a lot easier to find what you’re looking for.

Collapsible silicone colanders can help you conserve storage space—and are a colorful change from stainless steel. Where space is tight, consider similar space-saving products, including collapsible measuring cups.

SMARTtip

Jettison Bulky Packaging

Upon buying space-gobbling items, such as family-size bags of chips, repackage them in appropriate containers or bags. They’ll consume less space and stay fresher. In the case of frozen meats, you’ll be able to defrost just what you need and no more. Caution: observe strict sanitary practices when repacking meats and poultry to keep from introducing bacteria as you handle them.

The range shown here includes pullouts and drawers to keep cookware handy. Some range hoods, washers, dryers, and barbecue grills also offer storage.