Clean Slate Series: The Junk Drawer Makeover

Let’s admit it. We all have that notorious “junk drawer” in the kitchen. You know, that drawer that you shove everything that was on counter into before your guests arrive. If yours is anything like mine, there is absolutely no telling what you will find in there and there’s no real rhyme or reason WHY those things are there. I have to dig through piles of junk just to find a simple pair of scissors. This is why I sometimes purchase things that I already have.  What a waste of time AND money! In my last post, I told you guys I was getting my act together in 2015 by getting organized.  In today’s post, the first of my CLEAN SLATE Series, I will show you how to makeover your junk drawer in 1 hour or less. I’m also revealing the results of my junk drawer makeover. If I can do it, trust me, anyone can.

Give Your Junk Drawer A Makeover In 1 Hour Or Less

1. Dump everything out of your drawer.

Completely emptying your junk drawer allows you to see everything and begin the organizing process. When I emptied my junk drawer, I found totally random things like:

• A disposable camera (do they still make these? It’s probably 10 years old!)
• A keychain with 6 keys on it – I have no clue what doors these keys actually open
• My Masters degree – Hey, don’t judge me! At least it was in a folder.
• Sunglasses – Forgot I had these. They’re pretty cute!

2. Throw away anything you don’t use.

Things that are beyond repair or serve no purpose only contribute to the clutter.

3. Repeat Step 2

I mean EVERYTHING, Sir/Ma’am! Even the souvenir napkin from your cousin Trisha’s wedding. Help me to help you.

4. Remove items that don’t belong.

Find another home for things that you rarely use or for things that should be stored elsewhere. Place loose nails and screws in your tool box. Either file those old receipts, scan them to a computer file or throw them away.

5. Categorize.

Separate your remaining items into categories. Once you have determined your categories, ONLY store items in your drawer that fit into those categories. This gives your junk drawer purpose and a new identity. Some example categories are:

• Mailing Supplies  – envelopes, stamps, labels, letter opener, pens
• Commonly Used Household Tools – i.e. flashlight, emergency candles, lighters, tape measure, tape, scissors.
• Personal Items to Grab on the Way Out – i.e. keys, sunglasses, wallet

6. Organize

Get drawer organizers or small containers to store each group of items. Make sure you select the storage option suited for what you’re trying to contain. A folder maybe a great option for storing coupons; a round mesh storage cup is great for storing push pins or paper clips.

Junk Drawer Makeover: Storage Options

1. Bamboo Drawer Organizer, $4.99 – $8.99 – Bed Bath and Beyond  2. Rubbermaid Drawer Organizer, $17.98 (for set of 6) – Wal-Mart 3. Wire Mesh Storage Cups, $1.00 – Dollar Tree  4. Wire Mesh Drawer Organizer, $1.00 – Dollar Tree

 The Big Reveal: Kiki’s Junk Drawer Makeover

Sharing is caring.  After you give your junk drawer a new identity, post the before and after photos in the comments section. Share this post with your friends that are ready to get organized and live with less clutter.