The area under your kitchen sink can become cluttered quickly. There are too many cleaning bottles, plastic bags with holes in them, garbage and recycling containers, and maybe pet food, too.
The area becomes a catch-all for used and unused items. It could become a chaotic space and breeding ground for mould, ants, spiders and other creepy crawlers.
Here are 10 things you can probably get rid of right now:
Old sponges and scrubbers
Sponges and scrubbers have a limited lifespan. They become unusable and unsafe if kept for too long. Check for any that are worn out or have a funky smell. Replace them with new ones to ensure your cleaning tools are effective and hygienic.
Half-empty cleaning products
If you have cleaning product bottles that are almost empty or have been sitting around for ages, it’s time to dispose of them. Check if any are expired or no longer needed and recycle or safely dispose of them.
Make sure you use a safe cleaning product that can clean every room in your home. Consider switching to Old Country Clean cleaning products; they are safe for your family and pets.
Unused garbage bags
Old garbage bags that don’t fit your container can be donated. Make sure your new bags fit your current bin.
Rubber gloves
Rubber gloves that are cracked, torn or discoloured should be replaced. New gloves will protect your hands better and make cleaning more pleasant.
Old or broken accessories
What’s the reason for keeping old sink strainers, broken disposal parts or worn out sink mats? If these items are damaged or no longer useful, it’s best to discard them. Keeping only functional accessories helps maintain a tidy and efficient space under your sink.
Old rags
How many do you have and how many do you need? The old frayed or stained cleaning rags should be disposed of as they carry bacteria that can make you ill. Clean, usable rags are always handy, but it’s best to keep only a few and those in good condition.
For the love of vases
We women are guilty of vase collection. I love vases, all shapes, colours and sizes. I make sure I don’t have more than four. I usually buy them at the local thrift store.
If I buy a new one, I recycle an old one. One in, one out works for everything you have in your home. Get rid of vases that are chipped or cracked. Keeping only the vases you love or use will help declutter your space.
By tackling these items, you’ll free up valuable space under your sink and make it easier to find what you need. Plus, a decluttered space makes your kitchen more functional and enjoyable.
Also, check the pipes under your kitchen and bathroom sinks. If your home is older, the screws that hold the pipes might become rusty and loose. When that happens, dripping will start.
Water damage is not visible because of the many items under the sink. This unintentional negligence can cost hundreds or thousands of dollars to repair. Clear the clutter under every sink to prevent this costly experience.
If you take care of your home, your home will take care of you.
Transformational life coach Ranka Burzan owns a professional organizing company in the qathet region and has written several books on reducing clutter. For more information, email [email protected] or call 604.578.8954.
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