The 10 Things You Should Never Store on Your Kitchen Countertops — And Why Most People Still Do It

  1. Bread – It molds or dries out quickly. Store it in a bread box or fridge.
  2. Knife Block – Collects crumbs and bacteria. Use a magnetic strip or drawer insert instead.
  3. Rarely Used Appliances – Only keep daily items out; store the rest to free up space.
  4. Quick-Spoling Produce – Avocados, tomatoes, and onions degrade fast. Store properly to extend freshness.
  5. Spices – Heat and light weaken flavor. Keep them in a drawer or cabinet away from the stove.
  6. Paperwork – Creates visual clutter and stress. Move it to a command center or drawer.
  7. Cutting Boards – Stacked boards look messy. Store upright in a cabinet organizer.
  8. Pet Food/Treats – Can attract pests. Use sealed containers and floor bowls away from prep areas.
  9. Coffee Pods/Beans – Air and light stale your brew. Store in opaque, airtight containers.
  10. Cookbooks – Beautiful but prone to damage. Keep them on a nearby shelf or drawer.

The Payoff:
Your kitchen will feel cleaner, more spacious, and easier to use — no expensive remodel required.

Pro Tip: Decluttering counters is the fastest way to upgrade your kitchen for free. A few smart storage swaps make a big difference.