a pink refrigerator sitting in a kitchen next to a potted plant

When we think of decluttering the kitchen, we usually picture junk drawers and mismatched mugs. But what about the bigger stuff? The fridge, freezer, and small-to-large appliances tend to be out of sight, out of mind — until they're overflowing, outdated, or simply in the way.

If you’re feeling weighed down by what’s lurking behind the fridge door or on your countertop, this one’s for you.

❄️ Start with the Fridge & Freezer

These spaces are high-traffic but often low-attention. Let’s fix that.

Fridge Checklist:

  • Toss expired condiments, sauces, leftovers, or mystery items

  • Check dates on jars you haven’t opened in months

  • Wipe down shelves, drawers, and sticky spots

  • Group like with like — snacks, dairy, sauces, etc.

Freezer Checklist:

  • Ditch freezer-burned or unidentifiable items

  • Keep only what you actually plan to use

  • Label items with dates moving forward

  • Create zones (meats, veggies, meals, treats)

🔁 Quick Tip: Set a recurring reminder to clean both every 2–3 months — it prevents buildup and waste.

🍞 Next, Your Countertop & Small Appliances

Are your surfaces cluttered with gadgets you used once in 2020?

Ask yourself:

  • Do I use this regularly?

  • Is it taking up more space than it's worth?

  • Can something else do the same job?

Common culprits:

  • Air fryers, waffle makers, instant pots, bread machines, juicers, extra toasters, etc.

If it hasn’t earned a spot in your daily or weekly life, it might be time to store it, sell it, or donate it.

🧯 Don’t Forget: Large Appliances

Even the big guys deserve attention — especially if you're prepping for a sale or move.

Checklist:

  • Clean behind and underneath the fridge, oven, and dishwasher

  • Deep clean the oven (inside and knobs)

  • Descale your dishwasher and clean the filter

  • Wipe down and sanitize appliance surfaces (especially handles)

🎯 Bonus: If you're selling your home, sparkling appliances send a powerful message of "well-maintained" to buyers.

💬 Final Thought

Decluttering your kitchen’s big-ticket spaces isn’t just about cleaning — it’s about clearing out what no longer serves you and creating breathing room in one of the most used spaces in your home.

You don’t need to do it all in one day. Choose one task, one drawer, or one shelf — and start there.

You've got this!

I encourage you to start and continue your decluttering journey by checking out our podcast The Declutter Queen, designed to give you tips and tricks on how to declutter your life, physically and emotionally! With our helpful information you can be living clutter free in no time!

Don’t forget to check out The Declutter Queen podcast! Link to the podcast here

The Declutter Queen

Paid subscriber? You are entitled to a free 15 minute session each month with me - a time to discuss and check in on your decluttering progress! Simply email me at [email protected] to book your exclusive decluttering session!

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