In fact, some items are best kept out of cabinets—not just because they clutter things up. Moisture, temperature swings, and cooking steam can damage these items over time. “Kitchen cabinets should create a practical, clear system—not hold everything that doesn’t fit anywhere else,” says Laurie Hise, founder of Passionate Penny Pincher. If you want your kitchen to be both beautiful and efficient, keep these things somewhere else!
1. Cookbooks
It seems logical to keep cookbooks in the kitchen since that’s where you use them. But avoid it if you can—steam and moisture from cooking and washing can warp pages, ruin covers, and even damage handwritten recipes. A better spot is a dry, cool place like a living room shelf or a dedicated kitchen bookshelf away from steam.
2. Paper Plates and Cups
Paper plates and disposable cups are lifesavers when guests arrive or you’re short on time for dishes. But if stored in a damp spot, plates can soften and napkins may get moldy. Keep these in the pantry or on a higher, dry shelf to keep them fresh and ready.
3. Kitchen Paper Towels
Many toss spare paper towels under the sink automatically, but that’s not always the best move. “If the cabinet is near water and something spills, those paper towels might end up in the trash,” warns organization expert Jessica Litman. Instead, store them on an upper shelf or in the pantry to keep them dry and ready.
4. Spices
Of course, spices belong in the kitchen—but location matters. Stored near the stove or steaming pots, they lose flavor quickly. Keep them in a cool, dry drawer or a cabinet away from heat, or display them in a stylish rack on the counter.
5. Cleaning Supplies
Dish soap can stay on the counter, but keep other cleaning products away from food. “Most cleaners contain strong chemicals that can contaminate nearby dishes or food,” says Katie Dills, president of The Cleaning Authority. Plus, if you have kids or pets, an easily accessible cabinet with chemicals can be a safety risk.
6. Large Bottles of Oil
Got a jumbo bottle of olive oil? Stashing it in the cabinet might not be the best idea. Heat and moisture speed up rancidity, especially near the stove or on a warm shelf. Keep a smaller bottle handy for daily cooking and store the rest in a cool pantry or cellar to keep it fresh longer.
Next time you rearrange your kitchen, think about where things really belong. Even a small change can make cooking smoother and help your stuff last longer.
