15 Costly Mistakes Sitting on Your Kitchen Counter

By Josh Hasting

While countertops often serve as convenient storage areas for frequently used items, overcrowding them with unnecessary or unsuitable objects can lead to clutter, hygiene issues, and potential hazards or financial waste. By identifying items that are better stored elsewhere, such as perishable foods, cleaning supplies, and small appliances with limited use, individuals can declutter their countertops, create a more functional and aesthetically pleasing kitchen environment, and save money.

1. Fruits Exposed to Ethylene Gas

Certain fruits, like bananas and apples, release ethylene gas that can speed up the ripening of other produce. Store these in a bowl on the counter, but keep them away from veggies and fruits that are ethylene-sensitive, like avocados and berries.

2. Sponges and Cleaning Cloths

Kitchens are full of moisture, making sponges and cloths prime targets for bacterial growth. Don’t let them become a hidden health hazard! Microwave damp sponges for 30 seconds to kill bacteria, or air dry them completely before storing them. Consider replacing them regularly.

3. Coffee Grounds

Although they could be useful for a fast pick-me-up, coffee grounds also draw unwelcome pests like gnats. Store them in an airtight container in the pantry or freezer to maintain freshness and keep creepy crawlies at bay.

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4. Cookbooks

We love a good cookbook, but countertops are a messy business. Flour spills, splatters of sauce –  your favorite recipes can quickly become a greasy mess. Invest in a cookbook holder or store them on a nearby shelf.

5. Rarely Used Appliances

Consider the popcorn machine you use a couple of times a year. These bulky appliances are space hogs.  Store them away in cabinets or on a pantry shelf. They’ll be there when you need them, but not cramping your counter style.

6. Olive Oil

Heat and light are enemies of olive oil. Exposure can break down the oil, making it lose its flavor and health benefits. Find a cool, dark cabinet for your bottle of liquid gold.

7. Pet Food and Bowls

Fluffy’s kibble might seem convenient on the counter, but it can attract unwanted pests like ants and flies.  Store pet food in sealed containers in a cool, dry place. And wash their bowls regularly, not right next to where you prepare your meals.

8. Electronics

Kitchens are wet and prone to spillage, so keep phones, tablets, and even that sleek new smart speaker out of there. One accidental splash can mean an expensive tech funeral. Keep your electronics in a safe, dry zone.

9. Serveware

Cake stands and platters are infrequently used objects that occupy valuable space. Find a cabinet or designated shelf for them. Beautiful serving pieces deserve a special place, not collecting dust on the counter.

10. Wine Bottles

Sure, they look fancy, but constant temperature fluctuations and light exposure aren’t ideal for wine. Store bottles in a cool, dark place like a wine rack or cellar. Your vino will thank you for it.

11. Dirty Dishes

Let’s be honest, we’ve all left a plate or two for “later.” But dirty dishes are a breeding ground for bacteria and fruit flies. Clear them promptly after meals, or rinse and load them in the dishwasher to keep your counter sparkling.

12. Vitamins and Medications

Heat, light, and moisture can degrade the effectiveness of medications and vitamins. Store them in a cool, dry place like a cabinet or drawer, not on the counter where the stove and dishwasher reside.

13. Houseplants

While greenery brightens a space, houseplants can harbor tiny critters or become a breeding ground for mold if not properly cared for. Admire them from afar on a windowsill or plant stand, but keep them away from your food prep zone.

14. Non-Refrigerated Vegetables

Vegetables like potatoes, onions, and garlic are best stored in a cool, dark place rather than on the countertop. This prevents them from sprouting and keeps your counter clear for other uses.

15. Flammable Items

Matches, lighters, and other flammable items should be kept away from the kitchen counter to avoid accidental fires. Store them in a safe place, far from heat sources like the stove or oven.

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Previously Published on The Invested Wallet.

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