4 Things to Keep Out of Your Kitchen Cabinets (and Better Spots for Them)
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4 Things to Keep Out of Your Kitchen Cabinets (and Better Spots for Them)
Your kitchen is a sanctuary of culinary delights, but how you organize it can make a world of difference when it comes to preserving the quality and longevity of your essentials. ,
Kitchen cabinets often seem like the perfect storage solution, there are several items that should never find their way behind those doors. From humidity to temperature fluctuations, improper storage can lead to damage, spoilage, and safety hazards.
To ensure your kitchen remains not just functional, but organized, here’s a  guide on what should never go in your kitchen cabinets and where to store them instead.
Cookbooks
It’s easy to assume that cookbooks belong right where you need them close to your kitchen. However, experts advise against storing them in kitchen cabinets where heat and humidity can cause significant damage. Cooking, dishwashing, and even the occasional spilled cup of water create moisture that can warp pages and deteriorate the spine of your beloved cookbooks.
Instead of stashing them in your cabinets, consider finding a cooler, dry location to store your cookbooks. A dedicated bookshelf in a nearby dining room or even a small nook in your living room can serve as the perfect spot.
Paper Towels
Paper towels are an essential item in every kitchen, but storing them in a lower cabinet near water can be a recipe for disaster. Imagine a spill that dampens the roll, rendering it useless.
Not only does this waste paper towels, but it also creates a mess. The solution is simple, keep paper towels in a dry, easily accessible location, like a pantry or a dedicated cabinet far from any moisture.
Spices
Your spices are the heart of your culinary creations, and keeping them fresh is essential for maximizing their flavor. Storing spices in kitchen cabinets that are near the stove or sink is a mistake that can lead to flavor loss over time. Heat and humidity are the enemies of your spice collection, as they degrade the potency and aroma of your favorite seasonings.
Store your spices in a cool, dry spot away from heat sources. A dedicated drawer, a cupboard away from the stove, or a countertop rack can help preserve their freshness. By minimizing exposure to heat and moisture, your spices will retain their flavor for longer, enhancing the quality of your dishes.
Cleaning Products
While it may seem like a good idea to store cleaning products and chemicals within easy reach, this practice can pose serious risks to your health and safety. If cleaning agents are stored in a cabinet near your food, cookware, or utensils, there’s a risk of accidental contamination.
Additionally, cleaning supplies should be kept out of reach of children and pets to avoid accidental ingestion.
Conclusion
Proper kitchen organization isn’t just about tidiness; it’s about ensuring your items last longer and perform better. By following these storage guidelines, you can avoid unnecessary damage, spoilage, or safety hazards that can arise from improper kitchen storage.
The key is to be mindful of temperature, humidity, and the potential for contamination.
