**How to Get Your Silverware Drawer Out (and Keep it That Way)!).
Are you tired of digging through a cluttered silverware drawer, only to find that your favorite fork has gone missing? Do you struggle to close the drawer because it’s overstuffed with utensils, lids, and miscellaneous kitchen gadgets? If so, this article is for you! In this article, we’ll explore the art of getting your silverware drawer organized, and some tips to keep it looking like new.
Step 1: Sort and Purge
Breathe new life into your silverware drawer by starting with a thorough sorting and purging. Remove everything from the drawer and sort items into three piles:
- Essentials: This includes your favorite utensils, such as plates, bowls, cups, and silverware.
- Maybe: If you’re unsure what to do with an item, put it in this pile for later consideration.
- Toss: This pile is for items that are broken, damaged, or no longer useful.
Once you’ve purged the unnecessary items, give your silverware drawer a good clean to get rid of any accumulated crumbs, dust, or spills.
Step 2: Categorize and Group
Now that you have a clean slate, it’s time to organize your essentials into categories. Here’s a suggested way to group your utensils:
- Silverware: Forks, knives, spoons, and spatulas.
- Plateware: Plates, bowls, and cups.
- Gadgets: Colander, garlic press, citrus squeezer, etc.
Once you’ve grouped your items, you can start assigning a home for each category within the drawer.
Step 3: Use Storage Containers and Dividers
To keep your items organized and easy to access, consider using storage containers and dividers. You can find plastic or wooden drawer organizers specifically designed for silverware, or create your own using cardboard or foam inserts.
Assign a specific spot for each item, making sure to leave some space in between for easy retrieval. Label each container or divider so you can quickly identify what’s inside.
Step 4: Maintain Your Silverware Drawer
To prevent your silverware drawer from returning to its former disarray, establish some habits:
- Put items back in their designated spot after use.
- Wipe down the drawer with a damp cloth when cleaning.
- Store expired or broken items separately (e.g., in a labeled container).
- Consider implementing a "one in, one out" policy to prevent clutter from building up again.
Tips and Variations
- Consider a drawer liner or insert to protect your items and make cleanup a breeze.
- If you have limited drawer space, consider using a turntable or carousel to maximize storage.
- For a more elegant look, choose a drawer organizer with a fancy design or decorative hardware.
- If you have a large household, consider assigning a specific silverware set to each family member to prevent conflicts and make cleaning easier.
By following these steps, you’ll be well on your way to a silverware drawer that’s functional, organized, and a joy to use. Remember to maintain your newly organized space, and your kitchen will be a more peaceful and efficient space for cooking and entertaining.
How do I get this drawer out to replace the bottom part of it ?