The Chaotic Kitchen Cupboard

So we have this kitchen cupboard… it holds all of our “beverage supplies”. Brit and I have a bit of a beverage addiction, some might say. We love coffee, tea, hot chocolate, SodaStream and pretty much any other type of beverage or mixer you can think of. As enjoyable as this is, it creates quite a supply of “stuff” that easily gets out of control. Here is how I found clarity in my kitchen.

I have tried over and over again to organize the area; however, I have only recently been successful in making it functional. If Brit decides he needs his caffeine fix for the day, somehow everything that was inside the cupboard ends up outside the cupboard. If Brit doesn't know very clearly where to put something back {even though he JUST got it from there}, it’s going back in whatever place it fits, which might not even be in the same cupboard or room!

{Although I tried to organize into categories, it's still not functional. If Brit wants English Tea, we're I'm going to be picking up every tea we have off the counter soon}

Unfortunately,organizing space in a way that works for me, does not always work for Brit. One key thing I've learned in my organizing adventures {and in living with a significant other}, is that you have to create a space that works for EVERYONE using it. Let me introduce you to my 4-step system.

Step 1: Clear
After brooding over how I could alleviate this issue while remaining in a happy, amicable relationship, I decided to start with a clean slate. I removed all of the contents of the shelf and I separated everything into categories. 

{We had a total of 7 SodaStreams, 8 teas, 4 different hot chocolate mixers, several miscellaneous, and some beverage accessories}

This made it easier to find out exactly how I wanted to tackle the space. With everything out on the counter and separated, I could not only see what I was working with, but also consider several options for the space. 

Step 2: Clean
I cleaned {eh hem, so embarrassing} and measured the space. How crumbs get in a beverage supply cupboard, I have no idea, but note to self, maybe try to clean cupboards semi-annually annually {who am I kidding?}.

{Martha Stewart would be so disappointed}

We use grip liners on most of our shelves. So after sweeping up all of the mystery crumbs, I cleaned the liner and replaced it. Now my clean, fresh, empty space is ready to be organized!

Step 3: Contain

To the Container Store! But, not before I did some serious research. After measuring the space, I went online to see if I could find some containers that would fit nicely on the shelf while allowing some order. I also went to a couple of locations in my area, but I couldn't find anything that fit my measurements {such is the life of a woman}. 

I knew exactly what I wanted, clear containers we could easily grab and put back, so I went to the Container Store after work a few times {it's on my way home, so dangerous!} and I found these Linus™ Pantry Binz and Linus™ 3-Section Organizer!   

Now, I know the Container Store can be pricey and overwhelming for some, but in doing research, I was able to find exactly what I wanted for a price I was willing to pay. Before purchasing any kind of organizing supplies, I highly, HIGHLY recommended measuring and researching what you're looking for. This way you can be confident it will fit, and you will enjoy finding the solution to your personal cupboard chaos. 

Step 4: Clarity

I was able to fit everything nicely into each purchased container. The containers are categorized by drink type and also by usage. Another great benefit to this is that it's easier for us to see what we have. Before, Brit had unknowingly purchased two SodaStream flavors that we already had. Now, when we grab a new flavor, we are able to quickly take inventory of what we have and won't purchase anymore repeat offenders.

{Easy to use, easy to grab, and easily organized!} 

The containers are organized by hot chocolates and some mixers, specialty teas and beverage accessories {such as straws and umbrellas for those summery cocktails}, frequently used teas, and our SodaStream flavors.

{Hot chocolates and some of Brit's favorite English drinks} 

{With the SodaStream container, I even had some extra space behind it to store the duplicate flavors}

{Now all of our tea is easy to reach, and it's easy to pick a tea without having to hassle with stacked boxes}

I'm so stupidly excited about this new shelf set up. And, so far so good in maintaining organization and functionality! I'll keep you updated with any changes or challenges we may endure. 

What are some ways that you have organized a difficult, frequently used shelf or space? Any tips on some things that have worked for you?

Thanks for visiting!