The area under the sink, one that’s usually full to overflowing with cleaning products, tends to be a spot in the house that’s usually not very organised.
But, while you might think ‘out of sight means out of mind’ this space can quickly become chaotic and unsightly.
Australian de-cluttering expert, and founder of Mise en Place, Anita Birges, revealed with a few key items it’s possible to streamline this much-neglected space.
Here, she shows how easy it is to turn a messy cupboard into one that’s ordered and systematic, using her simple three-step solution. Best of all, it costs less than $120.
Australian organising expert Anita Birges (pictured) shows how easy it is to turn a messy kitchen cupboard into something that’s ordered and systematic
1. Clean and clear the space
Ms Birges believes the area under the sink is a great space for storage as it has depth, height and width.
But part of the problem with the space is that it can be tricky to work around different obstacles, such as piping, the expert told Today.
‘If we do it properly, we are going to utilise this space so we can see everything perfectly,’ Ms Birges said.
In the makeover she did for the show, Ms Birges began by moving everything out of the cupboard first.
She explained she did this in order get a sense of what was in the space as well as to see what could be thrown away.
Her suggestion for all those bottles which had a little product left in them (but were the same brand) was to ‘marry them up’ – that is to pour the remainder from one bottle into another, and throw the old container away.
A kitchen cupboard can be one of the most messiest spaces in the home but it is entirely possible to streamline this storage area so that it’s organised and functional
‘Sometimes people think they want to keep it [empty spray bottles] because they might reuse it if they make a vinegar and baking soda concoction to clean something else. But when it comes to down to it, it really causes more clutter,’ she said.
Next she cleaned the under sink space using White Magic Cubes which cost $3.99 for a pack of eight.
This cleaning product removes scuffs, marks and stains easily from a whole host of surfaces without the need for harsh chemicals.
2. Regroup and reload
Rather than put everything straight back in, Ms Birges advised people to consider proper storage solutions to keep the clutter at bay.
Her recommendation is to first measure the space lengthwise but to make an allowance of at least five centimetres for hinges if these stick out.
Before anything was added back into the cupboard, the expert installed a White Magic I-Hook bin, to the inside door at a cost of $39.95.
Next, Ms Birges introduced a double-tier plastic shelf organising unit from Howards Storage World, which cost $59.95.
She said this was a great way to store cleaning products as it was aerated so anything stored wet wouldn’t become mouldy, damp or smelly.
Because it was clear, everything could be seen at glance, and the plastic shelf utilised the height of this space effectively, she added.
‘A really handy tip is using office supplies for little areas like this. Something like a plastic magazine file fits perfectly under here,’ she said.
Not only did she use these for cleaning products but they also doubled as storage for rolls of clothes or paper towels.
3. Create a hanging rack for spray bottles
Ms Birges offered a unique solution for dealing with the problem of spray bottles – a rack where the bottles can be hung from that allows them to be seen at a glance.
Her recommendation was to use a tension rod, something she said was both cheap and easy to find.
Ms Birges offered a unique solution for dealing with the problem of spray bottles – a rod where the bottles can be hung from that allows them to be seen at a glance
She said this way the ‘whole space’ at the top of the kitchen cupboard could be used which meant spray bottles wouldn’t be resting on the bottom.
For those wanting to take their organisation game up a notch, the expert added suction hooks from Bunnings to the inside cupboard door for items such as a dustpan and broom, dish brushes and rubber gloves.
And lastly, for a professional touch, Ms Birges makes sure everything is clearly labelled.
Ms Birges shares her tips and advice on her website, Mise en Place.