15 Things Your Kitchen Doesn't Need

[@TheMinimalMom]

Thank you so much for watching! I'd love to know what you've declutter and don't miss in your kitchen! And here are the links mentioned in this video: My Plaid Shirt: amzn.to/3s4EIrY Dansko House Shoes: amzn.to/46QFGqE Drawer Knife Block: amzn.to/3QkK63v Knife Magnet: amzn.to/3S14msk Bamboo Drawer Dividers: amzn.to/3S3vXJr Dish Clothes: amzn.to/401EH4D Slide Out Cutting Board & Baking Sheet Rack: amzn.to/3rVrkGJ

[@maribelquesada5651]

Hello Dawn, I love your bedroom it’s so peaceful.. I’m guesssing it wasn’t always, what did you minimize.. did you have nightstands and dressers before. My bedroom always has random stuff

[@MsArtistwannabe]

I just ordered a pair of the nice house shoes. Thank you for the recommendation.

[@danicegewiss862]

I got rid of so much from my kitchen. Occasionally I get rid of a few more items.

[@sandysmom100]

I just took out all my toxic pastiche kitchen cooking utensils . I was asking a seller and creator on Etsy about something I wanted to buy to create a minalmaist Japanese style family room ..I already decluttered . I wanted to ask him if you used a stain on his low dining Japanese tables he makes and does finish them with polyurethane or beeswax if you choose that . He told me , did I realize all wooden spoons and kitchen utensils are sealed with polyurethane . We are trying to go completely chemical free .Now this weekend I’m going through everything , wgat msde in china that usually has lead in the paint . So I’m going through everything we have .

[@karensouthward4472]

Dawn Where did you get your cool kitchen “chopping”knife? It looks very effective. And it fits in your drawer knife block - not too tall/deep. Thanks for the great suggestions. I’ve been following you in TYHB for three years and my kitchen was my starting place!

[@daniellescrochet]

I love my slap-chopper, and use it all the time. Which just goes to show, how personal decluttering is to each person and family.

[@cogit8able]

I use my pampered chef chopper multiple times per week and per meal even.

[@cogit8able]

I dislike crying over onions.

[@DebDebbiesWorld]

I have one of those and do use it all the time. were a small family so its a good size for the size meals I do, stores easy in a drawer, can toss it in a dishwasher, its great.

[@elmichele]

I use mine all the time. 😂

[@lynne3989]

What's a good brand of the slap chopper?

[@danielharmon15]

One tip when transferring chopped vegetables, always scrape with the non blade side of the knife. Otherwise it dulls the knife quickly. Happy cooking!!

[@ColinIngus1]

Sorry but I have to disagree. The protrusion of the blade side plus the fact its much thinner enables scooping more practically. It doesnt matter that the blade loses its edge over time, that is inevitable whatever you use it for. That is what honing rods and whetstones are for. 👨🏻‍🍳😉

[@Maderlololohio]

I just sharpen the knives w eachother

[@MadisonBriggsArtchick]

My thought exactly during that clip!

[@reinhard8053]

But you don't use it with force for that. So the normal usage of knives would be much more dulling than pushing some vegetables into the pot.

[@sandyhoward1661]

I think this works for people that don’t entertain and have large parties. I could never have one spatula and one spoon. Many times i am cooking on all 5 burners of my stove at one time. We are having 34 family members for lunch on Sunday. I have many sets of dishes and glassware. They all have a place, my cabinets are not cluttered looking.

[@williamsmith4899]

You are not the typical person that gets inspiration from Dawn's channel. Sounds like your kitchen is the way you like it - and that is great. If absolutely every member of my extended family came to my house it would be less than 10 people - you are lucky to have such a big family!

[@rdb4996]

You are right! And blessed 😊 But you can apply the same ideas to any other room. Like your bathroom: for example do you need 4 combs, 6 brushes in a household of 4? Do you need 4 face creams, cosmetic testers etc?

[@emmashafer6463]

Minimalism isn’t cookie cutter, it will look different for everyone. You have a huge family to host, so you will have a lot more kitchen inventory. But, I am sure there are other areas in your life where you have less stuff than the average person. We are all different people, and our spaces need to work for us :)

[@llkg9]

In other videos, Dawn addresses those differences we all have. And for situations like that, she often recommends keeping in the kitchen what you need often, and keeping elsewhere (eg, in the basement but easily accessible) things you need to keep but use less often. And if you're having dozens of people over EVERY week, even Dawn would probably agree that you'd want to keep those items in your kitchen.

[@austenpoet]

Then that part of the video doesn't apply to you Karen 🤦🏻‍♀️

[@BarbaraButzow]

Dawn, I love that your videos go sraight to the point without all the blah blah of other videos. I get sick of listening to others who have a lot of useless superfluid chat. Your minimalism even extends to your presentations. Thank you.

[@debbykidd9813]

Wow. I LOVE my knife block. I've had it since I was in my twenties! I'm sixty now. Yes, I need duplicates of many things. I do a LOT of cooking and don't like to re-use tools in multiple dishes. You and I are very different I think. I agree with SOME of what you say, but don't mess with my kitchen 😛 My items are serving me. I've "decluttered" everything I DON'T use, but I LOVE my kitchen.

[@pkmcnett5649]

Same. There is no room in drawers and is so handy.

[@debbykidd9813]

@@pkmcnett5649 I have plenty of drawer space, but nothing as convenient as my knife block next to my stove. I also have no food in my kitchen. All of my food stays in my pantry except for my jars of bacon grease and some everyday spices

[@dianedavidson5283]

I didn't care for her adjective "tacky" knife block. So she doesn't like hers. I like mine.

[@TreJ999]

Yes, I think if you like something… keep it!! I have turquoise handles on my knives and love the cute pop of color on my counter. She is just giving her opinions. Do you! 😃😃

[@annabrahamson4320]

Agreed, she must not cook.

[@MsArtistwannabe]

I cook a lot. I don’t want to keep washing utensils to keep cooking . Utensil bucket saves me a lot of time. So easy to just grab one and use it. Rather than having to keep opening a drawer. Just makes the drawer get dirty faster. Also, makes putting utensils away much easier and faster.

[@meisjeViv]

Agreed, and for that reason I also keep duplicates of flipping utensils. If one or two are in the dishwasher and it hasn't run yet (we don't run it every day) I don't really want to have to dig it out of there and hand wash it. Also I do not have enough drawer space to put my utensils all in a drawer AND a drawer knife block. The knives are on a wall magnetic rail (because admittedly a knife block on the counter sucks). I have the best laid out kitchen I've ever had where I live now but it's still not that spacious... And there's no seperate pantry in this home so the pantry is also in the kitchen cabinets. As is the recycling and the grocery bags and the booze storage 😅

[@redhead911126]

I agree I just wanna grab a utensil quickly and put them away quickly.

[@maoak5470]

Same here. There are only 2 of us and I have 4 or 5 spatulas and rubber spatulas. I still run out before I end up running the dishwasher and have to hand wash some. Do agree about the knife block. I got rid of mine years ago and have 2 magnetic knife holders mounted to the wall.

[@MP-wv2hn]

How about keeping the utensil basket in a cabinet and pull the whole thing out when it's time to cook? Or keep it on the countertop. It's your kitchen, do what works for you. But, I do like these videos and suggestions because they keep me thinking and provide some alternatives maybe I've not thought of.

[@peggiescraftcafe7117]

Also, I don't have that many drawers. Having utensils out and easy to grab is the way to go for me.

[@crazymom1880]

I will NEVER give up my anti-fatigue mat! Rugs, yes, they can go. But I have the greatest anti-fatigue mat ever - the brand is "wellnessmats" and it is WONDERFUL! It doesn't roll or slip, and it feels so cushiony under your feet. It's a true lifesaver for someone with joint issues, and worth every penny, even though they are pricey!

[@kayelle8005]

Yes and I don’t wear shoes in my house

[@charlyheather1822]

until I saw this video i did not even know what anti-fatigue mats are / that they exist. i don't think i ever stand still in one place long enough for one to be helpful to me, though...

[@kayelle8005]

@@charlyheather1822 I used to never stand still either working the jobs and managing my home but now with chronic illness it’s a different story. 🙃

[@gracewins7318]

​@@kayelle8005I didn't ever wear shoes indoors either until this summer when out of the blue developed Plantars Fascitis. Now I have to wear them as soon as my feet hit the floor. And due to my elderly mother having a stroke taking her home all scatter rugs removed. Don't miss them a bit with always shaking them, vacuuming them also. Different seasons of life call for necessity of whats best or fits that timeframe for sure. I'm finding out.

[@kayelle8005]

@@gracewins7318 absolutely. Different reasons and different seasons. Shoes works for Dawn and for you. I’m trying to give my feet a break from being squeezed into shoes that inevitably damage your toes and their ability to balance and grip the earth. I have to wear orthotics when I’m out of the house though. 🤗

[@susanlawson5926]

I do have a splurge in my kitchen. Holiday towels! I don’t decorate that much anymore, but I do love a pretty dish towel for the season. Afterwards I put it in the bin for that holiday, so my towels don’t get pushed into a empty space…I live for the empty or slightly filled space!!! THANK U SO MUCH!!!

[@mariaboivin1840]

I also have holiday tea towels but l use them everyday it brings me [a smile to my older face] memories of great times when l use them especially when l have washed them and hang them to dry ❤❤😁

[@lee-annsmith8566]

There are a ton of good tips here! I do want to point out that for folks in older homes with small kitchens and few cabinets and drawers, it is really hard to NOT fill them as much as possible 😂

[@west-Co_exploration]

Not sure about the ton of great tips... But you are definitely right. There are a whole lot of kitchens in this world that do not have any extra drawer or cabinet space... Much less enough countertop space to even cook a meal. It's easy to get on KZbin and pontificate about decluttering when you have way more space then you can use. For those of us with tiny kitchens and barely enough cabinet space for plates and glasses, almost all of these "tips" are simply the equivalent of telling starving people in a third world country to just eat more

[@bumblebee_ms]

In Europe they have the tiniest kitchens which makes you be an extreme minimalist by circumstance.

[@JasminAsterios]

​@@bumblebee_ms I, for myself, had never ever had the idea of putting some decoration in my Kitchen. 😅

[@bumblebee_ms]

@@JasminAsteriosI never did before either until this year, I hung glitter stars off my 3 lights over the kitchen bench and love it more than the tree. Simple is better.

[@ac1646]

@@west-Co_exploration I too have a tiny kitchen. I have taken on board these tips. I'm not quite sure why you find them so offensive! 😊

[@mariebo7491]

That flannel shirt is definitely working for you 😍

[@wendyg.97]

Agreed! I wondered about it in her wardrobe video, but it looks great, especially over the monochromatic black. 🙂

[@jvalderas4011]

Last week I finally put all the "Tupperware" in the cabinet with the lids on and my husband was amazed. He thought it was a great idea! 🤩I've been purging random things throughout the house (like 12 sets of full size sheets and 2 trash bags full of towels, all of which went to a dog rescue) and he's starting to join the party without me nagging! Thank you for sharing your tips and tricks!💌💯

[@MaxineCourt]

Since coming across your channel and Cas' 4 months ago my life has changed. Our home is now decluttered and organised and more peaceful. Still a ways to go and I try to do a little bit more each time I watch your videos, today I will be having a sweep through the kitchen. Unfortunately my husband is not quite on the same page as me and he believes there will be nothing left in the house by Christmas!! :) Love from Perth, Australia

[@Sunflower.7]

😅

[@llkg9]

I've been on my decluttering journey for years now, but hardcore(ish) for almost 6 months now. I really tried to avoid all my husband's stuff, but he'd still complain about miscellaneous items that I've decluttered. Then, 2 weeks ago, he pulled EVERYTHING out of his super packed "Man Cave" shed and started getting rid of it all. I like to think my efforts have finally starting to wear off on him. ☺️ So... keep it up, don't try to force it on him, and he'll probably eventually come around as he experiences the benefits.

[@anitachopping]

Sounds so similar to me. Also from Perth Australia

[@marthastrayton]

😂😂😂

[@SuperBookdragon]

My fridge pics make me incredibly happy. They are not going away.

[@63electricmayhem]

No one's making you.

[@llamalluvv]

I have spider and snake magnets on my fridge, and they make me smile whenever I see them. Same with my daughter's art of the week. Never going to take those down.

[@suzannetaylor6285]

Me too ♥️

[@kunduzrouse5088]

Every time I watch your video, I want to declutter my house. You’re so inspiring ❤️😘🎊🎉

[@cassandrapowell1671]

Me too

[@tammyi363]

I donated 2 medium consisting of tablecloths, placemats and dish towels! Like 27 in total. Cleared a whole shelf in the linen closet. Then organized the remaining (which can be narrowed down more) into large tablecloths, small tablecloths and placemats. So simple now to find what I want instead of digging through the big pile. Feels so good to open the closet and see space! Thank you Dawn😊

[@ThereseDavidson]

Whoop whoop! Amazing Progress!

[@williamsmith4899]

Your local animal shelter would be glad to take the old dish towels - or any blankets that you might declutter.

[@charlenesorrells4152]

​@@williamsmith4899l9n

[@joanmarriott]

Wish that I lived closer to you

[@dwanaseratte3009]

I have almost completely decluttered my kitchen, & I'm actually kind of enjoying being in there to cook & clean. I've even started baking my own bread, which I've never had any desire to do before I started to declutter. My weird, old kitchen is now much more functional & while it still needs work, I don't hate it anymore.

[@NovasYouTubeName]

I really love your phrasing “would you be willing to let that go”, I can just feel your genuine care and it makes me feel like “yeah Dawn, I would be willing to do that thank you”! 😁 Also doing a huge homeschool decluttering and a “time will tell” bin is helping my brain lots!!❤

[@ashleapage7372]

I love pampered chef and the chopper! I just take it apart and put all the pieces in dishwasher. So much easier to clean that way

[@jenniferc7005]

If you rinse it right away and throw in the dishwasher… easy

[@Lck1972]

Exactly

[@cindytaylor698]

I really love a runner in my kitchen because it screams “cozy” to me so I’m going to keep it. Everything else in my kitchen is highly simplified. I know you’re fine with me keeping my rug, Dawn. 😂🥰

[@peacenloveforall6]

Re the runner, the decorating channels say runners are "high-end."

[@gwenshin]

I never understand people when they say they like a "cozy" kitchen. To me, a kitchen is a place to work. We do our cooking and cleaning in a kitchen, not take a nap or read a book. I like to save "cozy for the living room and bedrooms, but to each their own.

[@peacenloveforall6]

@@gwenshin I think it is because where people tend to hang out the most, especially when there is a special event going on.

[@AshleyFromTX]

I personally love having clear countertops with no clutter on them. I also don’t use floor mats or put things on my fridge either. These are good decluttering tips!

[@reinhard8053]

I got rid of everything on the fridge my moving and now having an integrated fridge with a wooden front. Bye bye magnets.

[@longgone2023]

Rugs get skidded around by dogs, are good to trip over and we banished them. And my fridges have nothing on them ever.

[@marciabutler987]

I have decluttered my kitchen to the point that I only keep things I need. HOWEVER, I have chosen to keep my utensils and oil/S&P on either side of my stove. Ours is a working kitchen and my husband and I make use of these items several times a day. They are beautiful and functional decor, plus, they make me happy to see! Otherwise, we do keep a clean and decluttered kitchen.

[@annabrahamson4320]

It can go too far. My daughter got rid of a really nice salad spinner only to have to go out and buy one when she needed one!

[@LolaDelMarCaribe]

Yeap everyone is different, I like having all my utensils close especially since I cook a lot. I like my kitchen area to be inspiring and a completely clear counter like that is so uninspiring and not homey to me. I guess I like a happy medium between minimal and necessary. Love seeing my most used and loved things and at close reach. I also intentionally buy beautiful things to use and looks wonderful on my counters.

[@Ouisaa]

I loved all of this. I especially loved how you got straight to the point and didn’t sit in front of the camera on your couch and explain your reasoning for 15 minutes before your video. I appreciate that. I exit videos that begin with that. 😆

[@robingage2855]

This was excellent to hear again! I have completely cleared my countertops, except for my coffee maker and a little plastic oblong container, holding a few mail items/stamps. I live in a tiny house so it’s not super easy but I’ve worked really hard at it since watching you.

[@saracroft21]

Love this! I've binge watched your videos the past weeks and have just so much energy when I listen to you. Thank you so much. I can't express how much I love, your attitude, your kind voice.

[@TheMinimalMom]

Wow, thank you, this means more than you know!!!

[@JasmineBrownOttawa]

YUS! I agree with pretty much everything Dawn suggests in this video. But I do have a set of 12 plates, glasses and cutlery, as we have a large family 😃 Everything else is really pared down, no extras, no single-use gadgets, and nothing that we don't use regularly. Almost everything is off the counter. It feels GREAT. I love not having to constantly figure out what to do with all the stuff in my kitchen.

[@stephaniegaddis1716]

Same for us! We have a household of 8, so the inventory can get out of control really fast!!

[@debbykidd9813]

I currently have a household of three, but have guests on a fairly regular basis. I have eight or more of each flatware or tableware item I have however Pared down my coffee mugs, travel mugs, and cups

[@Taleri]

Age and disability create their own rules for clutter. For most people the kitchen rugs, anti-fatigue mats etc may not be necessary, but they are 100% a necessity for us. They keep our elderly dogs from slipping on the floor (which would have potentially devastating consequences) and - given my husband wears a size 16 4e shoe - are much cheaper and easier to find.

[@SaltCreekFarmstead]

I agree! I’m a gardener, canner, and mini farmer. On preservation days, my anti fatigue mat is absolutely necessary! I have chronic pain and the mat is the difference between being able to walk the next day or not.

[@dawnmountaingirl643]

Please be careful they are a biggest tripping hazard as we get older

[@ucfhillcollege8296]

Maybe bring them on on preservation days? I am happy to have all of them gone. ​@@SaltCreekFarmstead

[@AZHITW]

@@dawnmountaingirl643 I've gotten rid of all my rugs but hold on to one fatigue mat because as you age you lose the fat pads on the soles of your feet; it almost feels like walking on bones. I wear shoes all the time because barefoot is unbearable, so one fatigue mat at the kitchen sink because I'm always using the sink wetting a microfiber cloth in my war against Arizona dust.

[@TheMinimalMom]

This is so interesting to read because my mom has gotten rid of hers so my dad doesn't trip with his cane, thank you for sharing this!

[@ButterflyCatcher72]

My husband found it amazing the beginning of this month when I purge my entire house (I do a whole house purge twice a year, I go through EVERY thing) and he found it amazing I would just take a decoration piece off the bookshelf and just toss it. When he asked me why I did that I simply said I'm tired of cleaning it! 😂 I have zero guilt getting rid of stuff, I don't have attachments to things however I dont consider myself a minimalist. I'm more of a practicalist. I like clean lines, I like organization but do I have lots of stuff...yes, everything has a place though and when it doesn't any longer out the door it goes

[@bmonster]

That's amazing. I am the type that doesn't let go because of guilt over the money I spent. I try to sell as much as I can but donating is a lot harder.

[@amisklake5711]

I hope your hubby will always have a place, lol😂 Please forgive my weird sense of humor. It's the first thing I thought of, after your comment. It seems your working hard on your declutterin journey, and Im thinking you must have a lovely home with all your effort.❤️😊

[@rdb4996]

​@@amisklake5711haha 🤭 I know you meant it as a joke, but for some of us decluttering is a necessity to keep our relationships healthy 😊

[@mama--rua]

Stop buying things😅

[@ButterflyCatcher72]

@@mama--rua 😂 where's the fun in that?! Lol

[@ElizabethDohertyThomas]

Dawn, your video about having nothing on the kitchen counter was super inspiring. Whenever that came out (1-2 years ago?) it's still going strong... I'm convinced people think they need tons of counter space because their is so full of appliances and things they only need for one small task.

[@HosCreates]

Some people forget things exist if they are put away I've done that alot I have to have clear bins in my pantry and medicine cabinent for this reason so I can. See it and remember to use it. minimalist mom stays at home so she can put it away I don't have the time. I always have my flour and sugar and masala spice container out so it's right there when I'm in a pinch in the morning or trying to get dinner on the table in 30 min. If my toothbrush is put away I forget to brush. I'm not sure why that's just how my brain works

[@mandySIMS6319]

​@@HosCreatesOh man, that is how things are for me. Although I love seeing areas cleared of things, if certain things aren't in view and reach I'll never use them. I forget about it. Glad I'm not alone

[@juliekonigskind6434]

Dear Dawn, I cannot tell you enough times, just how much I love your content and how happy I am, every time, you upload a new video :) I started my minimalism journey with you and two years in it still feels like the very best decision I have ever made and I even start teaching others the principles I have learned from you. So thank you again and be richly blessed, you and your whole family.

[@dpstoops]

I cannot thank you enough - I cannot imagine the challenge of being a YT creator, but please know your work has blessed my life. THANK YOU.

[@christiebarnhart4157]

As a previous Home Health Executive, we used to do a Fall Prevention class and one of the first things I would go over was removing all rugs. It’s a major fall hazard. Now that I’m a little older and have a bad back and hip, I would not want to fall over a rug and risk being in more pain Thank you for sharing!

[@DerrickMims]

I lived in my last place for over 10 years, and I only tripped and fell once: over a throw rug! 😮

[@cindygrisham4754]

Consider runner backed, slip resistant rugs. I like them. Also, I found on Amazon skip resistant tape by the (large) roll. This stabilized my footstool. I’m looking for other applications. I have two bad knees.

[@sarahsmom1002]

I really look forward to these videos each week. Thanks as always, Dawn!

[@wrylife57]

This is right on point for me. I recently went through a whole-house decluttering process that started in the kitchen. Not only did I get rid of a lot of unused items but I also rearraigned the contents--such as moving heavy crockery to bottom cabinets and moving the lightweight storage containers to upper cabinets (duh!). I already see that I need to do a second round of kitchen decluttering which incorporates some of your points, like fewer storage containers and dish towels. I had been overwhelmed by this task for years but, now that I've started the process, the dam has broken and I am feeling ruthless about getting rid of things. YAY!

[@Joshua24-15Home]

My Mom turned 90! last Sept and for her, the anti fatigue mat isn't a 'want' - it's a necessity! But I hear you! I'm going through my kitchen cabinets AGAIN. I now have one cabinet this is EMPTY! and one cabinet that is only half full (maybe a little less than half!) My small appliances are down to what we use on a regular basis! I've got my eye on a LARGE (this Jammerril Stewart large lol!) casserole dish that is now too large for my family. Hmmmm..... I use my Instant Pot weekly - if not more! So mine stays!

[@flonotflow]

#18. Don't go to Pampered Chef parties. Overpriced stuff that you can get elsewhere for a fraction of the price. We remodeled our kitchen this summer and I got rid of so many duplicates. It was my goal to have way less on my countertops after the remodel, it made such a difference! I even gave up my Keurig, I'm making coffee in something I can put away when I'm done.

[@lauralaforge558]

Plus mlm business models are unethical...

[@MaxsMom-bv6hf]

If you must have pampered chef you can find them for a fraction of the price at the thrift store.

[@mariakristinahawl1640]

I, too, gave up my Keurig, which took up too much space!

[@Clarabellyha]

I thought about getting a keurig but then decided on a French press instead so that it doesn’t sit on my counter

[@suenewark9397]

The jacket from your previous video looks lovely on you and it was so easy to take off, no zip! Easy wearing. I have no fridge clutter, I don't have enough drawer space to put utensils and knives in the drawers, but If I ever move and need a kitchen built, I will be having more drawers so I can have everything off the counter tops. I only have one of everything and a very simplified inventory. I keep containers on with the lids and have just got rid of 14 tupperware boxes (came in sets). This is my second cull on this, put the ones I hadn't used on a top shelf in a cabinet, one I would need a ladder for as a time will tell, not used any of them, no guilt they are going. I totally agree, they came as a set from Woolworths and I have only got the big one left, ideal for transporting cupcakes to a family do! ONCE YOU DE-CLUTTER you can re-assess your actual cooking stuff - I have just got rid of 10 baking sheets and tins (all metal non-stick) which are not good for your health when the non-stick goes, (they were very scratched etc also found them hard to clean) - my husband loves marinated meat and they are so hard to clean, so I have bought 4 pyrex ones - two small and two large, we usually use two for our dinners, but three, maybe four when we have company. Pyrex lasts years, always comes clean with a little soak, I don't dish wash them, I didn't know they did baking sheets until recently. So happy to have six less to store and found a better alternative. When I change something out after a declutter if the items are worn out - I practise intentional shopping and try to look for a better quality, item more suited to our current needs etc. It's okay to declutter and replace worn out items, but always assess what you do actually use and need FOR YOUR SEASON OF LIFE. I love that phrase. In my late 50's, probably been a semi-minimalist all my life, only one wardrobe and one chest of drawers and even that is too much these days! Reducing your inventory, simpifying and creating areas that work for you at a later stage of life makes for greater happiness. As you get older I think clutter is even more detrimental to your health - My mother-in-law was a true hoarder level 3 to 5 depending on the room etc and honestly it was an absolute nightmare to clear her house and so sad when she passed, nothing was in a good enough condition to keep, it was only fit for the skip. I vowed not to do that to my children. She had bought loads of new items but due to the level of hoarding everything was covered in mice droppings, mould, damp etc, she prevented us from going into her house for over 5 years, always came to us, or told us not to come in as we dropped her off etc, we just didn't know her house was in that state! Hoarding is a serious mental illness ... I am grateful to her because it means I will never get like that, just wish we'd know sooner so we could have made her life more comfortable.

[@debbiecreter2005]

Thank you for this video! Within the last two weeks, I decluttered our kitchen cabinets, 3 bathroom cabinets and closets, linen closet plus our walk-in bedroom closet, dresser and chest of drawers. I let these go way too long. What a great feeling to donate or toss out the items no longer needed, used, or wanted! Plus practicality trumped sentimentality.

[@williamsmith4899]

Local animal shelters would be thrilled to get your old linens - especially, towels and blankets.

[@kakylong2]

Dawn, We've gone through our kitchen 2 times & we still find stuff that we don't need. 😊

[@chris...9497]

After so many years, there are some kitchen items (utensils, cookware, even appliances) that I know will eventually be decluttered. Am I the only one who has emotional or esthetic attachments to certain kitchen items? I'm researched cookware surfaces and now realize I need to transition to wood or silicone utensils, letting go of metal ones. But some of my favorite utensils (acquired over years to find the most effective and comfortable ones) are stainless steel. Hard to let these old friends go, plus I'm just starting the 'test driving' portion of replacing them. It will take AT LEAST until I find a functional, comfortable replacement before I can let go of the faithful utensil the new one will replace. Meanwhile, there will be some temporary duplication. I'm also transitioning into this single-living, nonsocial period of my life, so still downsizing the appliances that will be smaller but not too small for this time of my life. I'm testing the production volume of what I now have. I'm also still editing the cuisines I want to continue to prepare and enjoy, along with their needed 'tools'. Also, I've set up a corner shelving unit to set out those appliances, to encourage use and test interest; in another year I will KNOW what appliances I don't use enough to earn a spot in my kitchen. Stuffing appliances into a deep base cabinet where I can't easily reach them is not likely to encourage me to use them; on display on a shelf, I get reminded to use them and they are SO much more accessible. This is basing my kitchen firmly on practical intentionality. No one says I have to get rid of the excess before confirming it's excess. I can wait to edit certain items out. I'm not so much a minimalist as I am just practical. inventory curation makes sense in terms of time, upkeep, repair, storage, and time management. And as someone who has moved a lot (I once moved coast to coast TWICE in the same year), I know what an upheaval it is to corral all of one's possessions and pay to move them (and heartbreakingly forget others). I like living simply, can get by quite well just by making do, but I'm like a magpie always collecting things that attract my eye and mind. I need to instill discipline, to think ahead to the end game for every item that comes into my home. It's about creating a process, a strategy, for these things. Not to be a minimalist, but to live more simply so I am not possessed by my possessions.

[@kakylong2]

​@chris...9497 Have you thought about putting sticky notes on your appliances & writing the date each time you use it. After a year, if you've not dated it or there is only 1 date, then question if you should keep it. 😊

[@chris...9497]

Yep. About 6 months ago. Actually, not expensive sticky notes; painters tape. @@kakylong2

[@anitarobertson3948]

Re linens: I have different placemats and towels for each season, as well as holidays (Valentine's, Easter/Spring, Hallowe'en, Thanksgiving/Fall, and Christmas/Winter Holiday). I enjoy changing them with the seasons. Yes they take up a good size drawer - but I do follow the container rule: If I buy more I have to remove something bc all must fit and that's all the room there is.

[@TheyGrewAgain]

I also have various holiday/seasonal linens. I pack them away with my other holiday decor when not in use.

[@jinglesh1398]

Great advice. I'm finally able to keep my kitchen clean because of all your tips.

[@marianna6733]

I totally agree. My journey to simplify had started with organizing (i. e. : buying dividers and extra shelves to put even more stuff into my cabinets!). Then I relized I had way too much inventory, as you call it, and that I had to take out stuff instead of organize it better!!! Yestarday, watching one of your videos, I even threw away some forks, now I'm left with 6 of anything (it's two of us, hoping to have some guests, every now and then!) and it's such a relief, now, openig that drower! I don't have the energy to wash dishes after every meal, so I do the dish washer every night. I'm very happy and satisfied with my decluttering! Thank you very much for the joy you bring. Bye from Rome, Italy!

[@amandabrittingham5076]

I've decluttered my kitchen a couple of times and it feels so much better! It's a little ironic that your video today was on kitchens, as we just got back from vacation with extended family who spent an additional night at my house before making the last leg of the trip to their homes. The kitchen became slightly untidy, but as I didn't feel good, I let it go and thought I'll get it tomorrow. Long story short, it's been 3 days now, and my kitchen is a little out of control. I know it will take about 10 minutes to pull it all back together, but as it gets messy it makes me want to run the other direction! Haha. This was a good reminder to take the 10 minutes to reset the kitchen so that the whole house feels so much better! :)

[@shirleybrewer8921]

I need my counters more clear but I don’t want that look as if no one lives here like yours! But that’s ok, we all have our own way of life! You did encourage me to purge some!

[@luvslyfe1]

I can’t imagine not using my instant pot! Pressure cooking, crockpot function, rice, etc, I use it several times a week. Some of the ideas are applicable, so take what info we need and leave the rest 😊

[@reinhard8053]

Me, too. There are definitely gadgets I don't use, but not that. On the other hand I still have my pressure pot (for the stove) lying around, too.

[@leek7987]

I think that keeping things that are meaningful and useful at times but perhaps not everyday are as important as having empty cabinets, drawers and counters. In my kitchen a stack of 5 bowls takes up the same space as 3 bowls. We are all different and that is good. Miss seeing you and Tom with house projects.

[@kayelle8005]

Some of those projects are on Tom’s channel

[@rdb4996]

And that why you have these items in storage away from your day to day kitchen (in case of a small kitchen) and memory bins

[@leek7987]

@@rdb4996 I can keep them in my kitchen so they will be available for me to use if and when I need them. I "store" them in kitchen cabinets that would otherwise be empty if I stored kitchen stuff in other parts of my house. We all do what makes sense for us not because someone tells us how we are should be doing it. We are able to take good ideas and use them and disregard others that don't work for us. Have a blessed day rdb.

[@stephanie7572]

There are some good tips here for a busy person, someone with a family, etc. As an older adult, I love interesting coffee mugs, bring them on! I think you have to adapt to what you like, what works for your lifestyle. I like the tip about putting storage containers away with the lids on.

[@louisecicconi5]

Yes! I’ve just decluttered my kitchen and I gave away sooo much stuff…utensils, loads of baking pans and muffin trays…mugs…plates…soooo much stuff…feels so much better now😅

[@granitemoss1451]

So I read your comment and 'muffin tins' really struck me. I have regular sized ones and mini ones. The minis were cute when the kids were mini but they're teens now so why am I holding on to these mini muffin trays? If we want muffins or cupcakes, we can just use the full sized ones. Gonna pack those up to donate as soon as I finish this video.

[@servantwarrior880]

​@granitemoss1451 our five girls are now 6, 8, 10, 11, & 12 and I avoid all muffins like the plague because I despise taking the time to make them. Instead I just pour the mixture in a Pyrex pie pan or other size depending on the amount of batter. I have realized my kids like cornbread and muffins in any shape. I do save the muffin tins for cupcakes for birthdays though.

[@audreydecker8881]

I found this video extremely helpful for me in my decluttering venture. It was very timely and thank you so much.

[@lindacarr314]

I recently did a purge in our kitchen. Got rid of the heavy glass baking dishes, anything we hadn't used in over a year. We had 3 junk drawers! We're down to one, and I no longer need to call it a junk drawer because it only contains stuff we use on a regular basis. Thank you for all the tips and encouragement.

[@kathrynratenski-harrison4635]

"I MIGHT NEED IT- I MIGHT BREAK IT- I MIGHT HAVE A BUNCH OF PEOPLE OVER- I MIGHT LOSE IT OR IT MIGHT GET DISTORTED & I DONT HAVE ANOTHER ONE RIGHT AWAY- OR WHAT IF I DONT HAVE MONEY IN THE NEAR FUTURE- ETC.. CREATS ANXIETY. HOW DO U GET IN CONTROL OF ANXIETY ?

[@gailmpintos7232]

I have the same reaction when these ladies just want you get rid of it. I was brought up by people who saved everything! So, I now use Dana's container system. You can save as much as will fit in the container. It eases the anxiety of needing it.

[@bonnierainwater4484]

Yay! I’m feeling pretty good about my kitchen right now… of your list, I have accomplished clearing 9 of the 15.

[@Asphodel27one]

My pyrex pie dishes just went to a local pie shop that will need them for the holiday rush. Several saucepans with lids, extra dishes and small kitchen gadgets/appliances went to a local thrift shop that provides for a very busy food bank in back. A couple estate sale Le Creuset casserole dishes now replace several other items. My cast iron skillets aren’t going anywhere though! Thanks for the encouragement through these videos.

[@akontilis1792]

Ooh good idea about the pie plates.

[@marinakaplais]

In the UK a lot of us have small kitchens and dont have numerous cupboards or drawers to store stuff like utensils and knives. So they have to go on tops

[@mkel858]

You've just gave me incentive to clear my kitchen again I did it awhile back but I can see it needs more thank you!

[@michellev2194]

I have been watching so many of your videos and as we expected a little one to join our lives, your videos have impacted me like no other! I appreciate you giving permission to let things go and using data to tell me if something actually needs to stay. You have completely changed my life for the better. Thank you ❤

[@bnikiz]

We just moved cross country and I’ve been binge watching your videos while we unpack and I have 1 quarantine bin and 4 donate boxes already, all just from the kitchen!

[@cb9825]

Would be even better to declutter before the move. Less boxes! 👍 I wish I knew it before our move LOL

[@kimberlytrevino2210]

Yes yes yes! I got rid of the mats years ago and am so much happier. It was a frustration for me. I do have foot and back problems and also found that the right house shoes is the key. Great advice.

[@Seams_in_the_Wild]

Yes! A mat only helps in one spot, but good shoes help with every step!

[@meganwildeman7587]

This came at the perfect time. Thanks, Dawn, for all you do.

[@susanadams8238]

I love the help you offer me in decluttering my home. My home is better but still have a way to go. I love you ideas. The idea about putting the lids on top of Tupperware, is life changing, I like you ideas about the supportive slippers also. Thanks Sue

[@GeoffBenge-d3k]

I am a true follower! I have been watching your videos for years and scored 17/17 for the list. Thank you Dawn! It really does make working in my kitchen a breeze.

[@jesseostone386]

I have TWO drawers dedicated to utensils, along with one drawer for silverware. I LOVE those bamboo drawer dividers, especially for the Knick-knack, trinket drawer.

[@7binaz109]

Keeping the lids on the storage containers is the BEST! Those darn things were always a mess, even to the point of rolling out of the cupboard! 😂🤣 That and I want to thank Dawn for introducing me to two things I didn't know existed, but now I can't live without, the stretchy drawer dividers and the in-drawer knife block. I just ditched the rug in the sink area, and honestly, life is much easier without it!

[@debbiehadad7968]

You are very good at demonstrating your thought process and that gives me a way to apply your suggestions that work for me.

[@AmySmith-d3j]

Dawn, disassemble the food chopper and throw it in the top rack of your dishwasher. Sure, the blades will dull over time and the clear plastic will etch, but it will still be functional for at least 5 years. So worth it to me!!

[@kateyare4708]

That's how I clean mine, and it well over 5 years old and working fine.

[@cv7357]

@@kateyare4708 me too... but it's been over 20yrs! Eventually the bottom rubber part disintegrated so I use it on my cutting board instead. Oh, and the clear plastic part has broken in half down one whole side.😐 ok, maybe I should let it go, but my 7 yr old grandson thinks it's cool to beat the heck out of it while we cook together...so I'll keep for now😍!

[@colleenarthur8472]

Linens: we hardly ever use them on our table, just for holidays. But knowing that the hand crocheted table cloths and runners took someone a LOT of time and energy to create, I am finding new uses - one doily table cloth is now serving as a curtain. It's being used, and it's beautiful, and makes me smile every time I pass it - several times a day!

[@tayh.6235]

That's lovely

[@johannabennetts64]

Yay! You kept the shacket :) So cute. "Permission to break up sets" gave me SO much freedom! I had a huge wooden salad bowl that we got for a wedding gift (sixteen years ago) and it had these awful tongs that went with it. They were useless and hard to clean. You made me realize I could KEEP the bowl and donate the tongs. Duh.... but so good!!! I never thought of it myself, ha! Same with pots and pans... my husband recently suggested we upgrade because again, we've been using them for 16 years. He said, "let's look at a new set" and I said, "NO! Let's look at one spaghetti pot and one large skillet, because that's is ALL I use!" 😂😂

[@austenbrit68]

I have a VERY small kitchen with very little cabinet or counter space so I found a lot of this helpful. I’m already pretty minimalist there because I have so little space, but time to rethink some stuff!

[@ruthtaylor7863]

Tacky? My utensil caddy and knife block are on the counter because I have little cabinet/drawer space. Give tips without judgement.

[@andeeanko7079]

I just love you Dawn! My life looks nothing like yours, I dont have a family nor do I even have my own home currently. I still get value from your videos! ❤

[@jillrector8568]

Thanks Dawn for pointing out breaking up sets of bowls. I don’t order sets of brilliance ware for those reasons. I got only the medium and large that fit together and and use the same lids perfectly and all the little pieces weren’t necessary. Definitely having all the same brand helps things fit together so well

[@SDSueK]

Dawn, you're so right about all of this! It's taking me time to let go of all the extras and duplicates and things I don't use but might need or use "someday". One of the biggest life changers for me, is the food storage containers! I don't cook often, but when I do it was always a struggle to find the right containers in a drawer full. It was hard to let go of the extras, but you're right! I only need a few. And if I run out or don't have what I want, it's because I really need to clean out the old stuff in the refrigerator. It's a bit more effort, but to be able to grab the container I need, WITH a lid, is so helpful! I'm not quite as minimal as you, but as I pare down the kitchen and other areas I really recognize the benefits!

[@jennasaisquoi73]

“…that tacky knife block…” I love my “tacky” knife block, I cook a lot, and having to open the drawer every time I need a knife would just take more time. I love to be organised and keep clutter pared down, but I also don’t mind my kitchen looking like people live here rather than like a magazine spread. 🙄

[@rdb4996]

Some knife blocks do look tacky though 🤭 And they might be a bad idea with young children around. But overall if it works for you and you have the space, keep using it!

[@AK_AF_LB]

⁠@@rdb4996 most knife blocks look tacky. And good point about the kids!

[@neonmoon2119]

Yes!@rdb4996

[@lizbratcher2919]

I think she’s just trying to give people permission to think differently about their space. Not everyone cares about having nothing on their counters but a lot of us think better with less stuff on surfaces.

[@leannewith3]

@@rdb4996 we kept our knife block as a safety thing for our kids. Kids can reach drawers but not a knife block in the back corner of the bench. It all depends on the house and the family.

[@SouthburyGirl]

Just saw this video today and wow, how timely for me! I have been feeling very overwhelmed by the clutter on our kitchen counters! We had our kitchen fully renovated 4 yrs ago and I remember how gorgeous it looked and felt when it was done and before all the STUFF began collecting on the counters! Pretty much everything you mentioned, has built up for us over time. Since we're having some work done right now in our utility room (where I keep my small appliances and a lot of entertaining & seasonal dishware) it's the perfect time to start culling what we are no longer using and then when that's done, start working on the kitchen & pantry. We're getting older and I want to seriously scale down, sell this family size house and get a smaller home... while my husband wants to go bigger! I am definitely going to have to work on him to start thinking smaller scale. lol

[@lindamarsden8024]

Great video, I love the "time will tell bin" when I'm stuck with letting something go. I now buy so much less and I have time to do the things I love.

[@Mrs.J.D.B]

I am decluttering my kitchen right now and REALLY want to reduce the inventory in my house by about half. But i struggle to get rid of things because i get anxious thinking we might need something in an emergency. The fact that you have emergency food storage gives me a great sense of peace that i can do this too, while keeping some stuff/food in the basement for emergencies. Thank you for all you teach us!

[@Rosie_C]

I tend to be such a hoarder and something that has helped me is to temporarily remove items I think I don’t need, then get them out 6-12 months later and decide if I can part with it.

[@MyFocusVaries]

Great list! Years ago I pared down my pots and pans, and now have two good cast iron pans and one large stock pot with a strainer/pasta insert and a small double boiler. We kept two spatulas/flippers because there are often two of us cooking at the same time--we often have three burners going at once. I stopped stocking extra food except for a case of canned chunky soup in our earthquake kit. I put a reminder in the calendar to donate it to the food bank a month before its best before date, and buy a new case.

[@Stephpope19]

Thank you so much Dawn!! You have truly changed the way I look at things in my home and now my home is warm, cozy, and my kids are always in the playroom that I've completely overhauled!! Everything you say is point in about kids needing to be in simplified spaces. Please do a hair tutorial!! Loving the curls!!

[@redhead911126]

I like having things on my fridge my daughter draws but even more importantly I have a magnet calendar and grocery list and I display appointment cards on the fridge so i have some sense of time and will actually remember to purchase important things. I do take time to declutter the artwork and reorganize the empty magnets from time to time though. Clutter does stress me out but i also like to see some character as well, its a fine line im still defining

[@triciamcfarland8823]

I have purged a lot over the past 3+ years, especially since we moved to a smaller home. I absolutely love having my counters cleared. It truly does make you feel good. Less is best…for me. I’ve gotten over thinking of the money I’ve wasted with all my must haves. It’s in the past. This way of living isn’t for everybody but it sure has made a difference for us. Thank you:)

[@nancy3482]

It’s so true about the food storage containers. I started storing mine with their lids on and I’ve never gone back. No more avalanches when I open the door. 😊

[@annetteverel5904]

And less space in your cabinets. Have a piece dedicated to holding lids. Simply.

[@cltinturkey]

GREAT video! The family time and fun is such an important point. My gas water heater is about to burst, at 25 years old, and I'm lucky to have found a tiny leak. The cavalry is coming in 48 hours with the new one, but I've been racing around to get the basement in top shape. It was bad! I've taking out a couple carloads of donations, bags of trash, rehired some items, and it's much nicer. Expensive lesson, but we're saying the house gets a new water heater for Christmas. Lemonade made from lemons!

[@teresarose7524]

the chopper thing in your hand is perfect for nuts. I use evey winter when I need chopped nuts or cookies for crust.. I have the exact one. Onions, a knife is definately better- but nuts- its awesome

[@rosywilson3076]

🤔 I buy chopped nuts from the supermarket because I rarely need them and I don’t have to chop them at all! Just a thought

[@eileenlawton5434]

I only have four drawers in my little kitchen and I’ve already Decluttered so much. I kept wondering how I could get the knife block off my counter. Thank you! I had no idea there was a magnetic way of storing them. I would love the drawer knife block but I can’t with the kitchen I have currently. Thank you so much for sharing!

[@debbiebowles7001]

"Our brains love simplicity" So very true! Clutter can make life more complicated.

[@randalynshaw7262]

I love my countertops clear! I decluttered my juicer. Never miss it! It was making me feel guilty not use it. It was a pain to clean! I now make smoothies. 🙂 Love the video! Thank you!

[@rhondacary7548]

Love you & your videos! They are always so inspiring! That said, I'm still not getting rid of my duplicate utensils, pots/pans, or casserole dishes, lol ;) . With a family of 8 (some with food allergies that require separate foods at meals) we really do use multiples of those things each meal we cook at home. And my pressure matt in front of the stove has been a game changer for me. That said, I love how it is about what is truly being used and what inventory can be managed :) I have downsized a lot of gadget type thing over the last year and it is great! I am slowly finding extra room in my cabinets and things I don't need as much. It definitely helps one determine what is important and what just isn't! Thanks for all you do and have a marvelous day!

[@melissaquantock9566]

Oh my goodness....the kitchen towel drawer...always a struggle to close for me...Thank You...I'm going to thin it Tonight!!! Dawn....your just like visiting with a dear friend....Your appreciated!

[@lellachu1682]

Great suggestions! I love the seagrass rugs in my kitchen because they protect my wood floors.

[@lauralaforge558]

Yup. We are having wood floor and primary reason I am doing a runner is bc of that

[@karenhanson4207]

Ok the rug\anti-fatigue mat just blew my mind! I'm constantly trying to vacuum mine and it looks old and crappy and stuff is always stuck on it. I never even thought that I DIDN'T NEED IT. DUH. I just threw ours away and won't be replacing it. The space looks so much bigger and cleaner now! Thank you!!

[@emmasebastian8018]

So glad you kept that shirt. It looks great on you😍❣️

[@TheMinimalMom]

Thank you!!! 🥰

[@AliciaMoctezuma402]

I’m so glad I came across this video. I’m about to do a kitchen reorganize and this is much needed inspiration to do a thorough job and get it more functional.

[@EFergDindrane]

I'd love to see this sort of thing for people like me in tiny apartment kitchens. I have literally ONE drawer in my kitchen. One. So how do WE keep our 3' of counter space clear or at least tidy? I have stacked boxes, which is better than loose crap, but it's still clutter, and I have no counterspace to chop things. I use the top of the stove.

[@darleneh608]

I second this.

[@AlyssaWolverton]

Check out her rv camping videos. She organizes in there. Different then tiny living but a good start.

[@EFergDindrane]

@@AlyssaWolverton ooh, great idea! Thank you!!!

[@thegmanviews11]

I have decluttered so much stuff thanks to your channel - and have become much more mindful of what I store in my absolutely tiny kitchen. One thing I do that my children seem to struggle with is I keep my containers with their lids. Amazing how tidy my cupboards are when the kids remember to put the lids on the container

[@verhanikawillhelm]

The food storage container thing is so helpful. When I run out, inevitably there are leftovers languishing in the fridge that need to be cleaned out!

[@debbiehadad7968]

I find your videos extremely practical and useful. Thank you so much.

[@pamcadd8658]

While I mostly agree with you, completely cleared counters just don't work in my small kitchen. I don't have drawer space for a knife block, and the main purpose of the knife block next to my sink is to serve as a drip-dry knife holder - knives get rinsed or washed as they are used, then are returned to the block to dry. The toaster oven gets used almost every day, and there wouldn't be a place to put it if it wasn't on the counter. Good for you - but it is harder in a small kitchen after 55 years of managing the inventory.

[@edennis8578]

Amen! I have 4 drawers total in my kitchen (silverware, cooking tools, house tools, and garden tools), and one shallow undercounter cupboard for big/heavy stuff, which is used for fancy china. Therefore, our coffee maker, knife block, toaster oven, microwave, and air fryer, all of which we use nearly every day, are on the 4 feet of counter space.

[@pkmcnett5649]

Same. I literally have NO counter space. It is a very small kitchen for a house. (The garage has more counters)

[@maoak5470]

Have you thought about a magnetic strip mounted on the wall to hold knives? It works great for us.

[@laurenterry1711]

Your videos are really good quality and I like your ideas! I see a lot of people have problems with this or that but the point of minimalism is not to get rid of things you need and want, it’s about getting rid of everything else.

[@mimiscountrycooking1607]

Great advice! I don’t like my counter tops looking cluttered, but I do have things I need to get rid of especially when I haven’t used it in over a year Thanks for the motivation ❤

[@jotippet9053]

Thanks for giving us permission, this such a powerful word and a breath of fresh air. We are moving next week and I have been culling big-time. It’s an eye opener 1) how much STUFF we have and 2) how much we don’t use and actually need.

[@e.r.stowell4491]

We cook for 5, 6 days a week plus baking and hosting, I love my chopping things, blenders and servers so I don't think my kitchen will ever be so clutter free lol