How To Create a Better Kitchen Workflow

In a busy kitchen, it is easy for people to run into each other, for workspaces to become cramped, and for the entire process of meal prep to become more of a headache than a joy. And when there are too many proverbial chefs in the kitchen, it is not just a nuisance—it can also become a safety hazard. From hot pots of boiling water to sharp knives, a kitchen is a place filled with potential dangers.

It is important to think strategically about the room's layout to cut down on the number of accidents in the kitchen and contribute to a better, more efficient workflow. In this guide, homeowners can learn how to transform their kitchen space, creating an improved workflow that is as aesthetically pleasing as it is functional.

Store Items Near Their Use Space

One of the keys to creating a kitchen workflow that is more efficient and allows for multiple people to be in the room simultaneously is to think strategically about where items are stored. Ideally, items should be organized based on where they will be used.

For example:

• Store pots and pans in the cabinet closest to the stove.
• Store cutting boards and knives near each other.
• Keep baking sheets in a drawer underneath the oven.
• Organize coffee cups next to the coffee maker.
• Keep food storage containers and plastic storage bags near the fridge.
• Keep spices adjacent to the stove.
• Place ladles and spatulas in a drawer by the stovetop.
• Keep plates, bowls, and silverware near the exit closest to the dining space.
• Dedicate a drawer near the sink for dish towels and clean washcloths.

Create a Dedicated Workspace Away From Entrance and Exits

For chopping and food prep, it is essential to have ample room. This is critical in ensuring safety in the kitchen. Ideally, build an area where food prep can take place that is the furthest away from the kitchen entrance and exit. This cuts down on how many people will walk by while someone is dicing vegetables. Additionally, anywhere that raw meats will be prepared should be located away from other food to prevent cross-contamination.

Accomplish this by installing a butcher block countertop in the corner of the kitchen or near the stove. Organize knives and other food prep items in the same area for greater efficiency.

Add a Pot Filler Above the Stove

While using knives might be one of the most dangerous activities in the kitchen, toting around heavy pots filled with water is another potential hazard. Not only is it easy to drop these items, which can result in an injured foot, but splashing and spilling water can create a slick surface on the kitchen floor.

To prevent these accidents and cut down on foot traffic necessary when preparing a meal, install a pot filler. These specialty faucets mount directly to the wall above the stove. Pot fillers feature accordion-style designs, which allow them to be tucked up against the wall when not in use and pulled outward over the top of a pot or pan when in use.

Keep Frequently Used Items Easily Accessible

Certain items are used more often than others in the kitchen. However, when these items are stored in difficult-to-reach places, they can quickly become frustrating and pose a potential safety hazard.

For example, for those who enjoy baking regularly, rather than storing a heavy mixer in an upper cabinet, create a dedicated space on the counter for this appliance. This will cut down on time spent searching for frequently used kitchen items and prevent the need to climb on step stools to pull these potentially heavy items down.

Clear Off Countertop Clutter

When working in the kitchen together, everyone becomes crammed into a small space simply due to a lack of countertop availability. Often, the culprit is clutter. Every week, homeowners should take the time to clear off all countertops. Any items that are not used frequently should be stored in cabinets or drawers.

Additionally, keep clutter from around the house out of the kitchen. Rather than throwing down the mail, car keys, and electronic devices onto the kitchen counter, add dedicated space for these items elsewhere in the house. This will help to ensure ample space for meal prep.

Add a food prep sink  

A popular trend is to add a food prep sink in the   center island. The kitchen sink is one of the most used spaces in the kitchen. As such, there is often a bottleneck in the kitchen as everyone attempts to make their way to the sink to rinse something off or clean up a mess.

With a food prep sink installed in the  center island, everyone has easier access to the sink. This creates a workflow where everyone can move around the island, rather than all piling in front of the kitchen sink.into a kitchen corner.

As a bonus, an upgrade that provides more work space when adding an additional  moving the sink is worth considering. There are numerous kitchen sink designs available that offer improved functionality. Pair a double basin sink or a deep farmhouse-style sink with a pull-down faucet for the ultimate kitchen prep space. This will make cleaning large pots, pans, and baking sheets easier and more efficient.

Find Inspiration for Any Kitchen With Kingston Brass

Reorganizing the kitchen to create an optimized and safer workflow is made easier with the latest kitchen products from Kingston Brass. Kingston Brass carries high-quality kitchen faucets, sinks, fixtures, and more. Homeowners can find inspiration for any redesign, whether large or small, by shopping their online catalog. Not only does their catalog feature unique styles and designs, but they offer a wide variety of finishes, perfect for matching an existing design. From stunning modern pot fillers to unique accessories, revamping the kitchen is a breeze with Kingston Brass.