Thank you for watching!!! You can find the free printable decluttering guides for kitchen, sentimental & general items here: www.ithinkwecouldbefriends.com/2019/12/05/decluttering-questions-free-printable/
❤️ I hope you will take this comment in the spirit in which I intend it: People, particularly those who profess Jesus as their Savior should be mindful of using the word, "awesome".The G0D of Abraham, Isaac and Jacob or His Creation is AWESOME. I find it very strange watching scripture come to fruition and now everyone uses the word awesome. A utensil or appliance may work well but it is not awesome. ❤️ Love your vids❤️
I did put my stand mixer away. I keep out those things I use daily. Coffee pot, cookie jar ;) knife block. It does feel complete when it is just daily use stuff.
I am currently decluttering my kitchen and had put a bunch of random specialize utensils in a basket on a high shelf because I didn’t know what to do with them. Not five minutes later I heard the part about “do I really want to deal with these AGAIN?” I climbed right back up and the majority of those utensils are now in my donate pile 👍🏻 Thanks for calling me out!
My husband and I live in a 5th wheel camper. He's a trucker driver who is gone 3 to 4 months at a time. I have a ton of things I don't use or need for just 2 people. This has inspired me to declutter. I realized I don't need 2 coffee pots and a French press, a slow cooker and an insta pot, ton of dishes It's a camper! We chose this life to minimize but didn't! Time to start!! Thank you.
This is just what I needed to hear!!! After fussing because I was tired of me always ending up stuck inside doing house stuff while hubby gets to do my favorite outside jobs I figured our current "a little decluttering here and there" wasn't working. I announced that if I'm managing the inside we were changing the rules. I'm tearing through the kitchen first since you took me off the hook for all the small appliances that haven't worked out and downsizing pots and pans. To be able to go outside where I'd rather be my mental list of inventory is narrowing down to what's manageable for ME!! Wish me luck!!! Love the Guided Decluttering!!
Peg Brown What a great statement “we’re changing the rules!” I haven’t even watched yet but am excited cuz I need this one. I’ve decluttered my kitchen but realizing not enough. Thanks, Dawn!
Good for you!!! The process of decluttering our house started in the kitchen because it is MY domain, and not having to ask anyone permission is so empowering.
One of the things I love the most about your decluttering of dishes in particular is that the kids get a sense of responsibility to clean up after themselves and take responsibility for their special set of unique dishes you created. I think that’s a wonderful lesson that they’re learning at an early age and one that will transfer to so many other parts of their lives. You’re an awesome mom!!!
I have a husband and 2 teens, wondering where I can stash the extra that is convenient but people won't be pulling out because they dont want to wash! Lol Maybe tape the extra together like in a thrift shop... I'll try that first! Lol
You are so great at explaining decluttering in a way that takes the guilt out of the whole process. The guilt is always what has kept me from getting my house exactly the way that works for our family. Thank you so much for your videos. :)
HI Dawn , I love your videos ! Recently I helped my mom declutter the kitchen ! I love minimalism ! Yes, I am 12 years old , but we made a lot of progress in the kitchen ! It felt good !! I only made one problem ... got rid of my dad's good soup pan .Lol.. My fault ... not my moms ! Haha ! But the overall was good ! Thank you for your tip phrases , I quote you all the time ! THank you ! Great video !
I purchased my grandmother's home after she passed and there was a ton of stuff left behind..... that's what I struggled with getting rid of! I've lived here for 18 years! I know I have cookware I've only touched to move from one spot to another. It's time to let it go...... That will be my weekend goal!
I cant wait for my mother to die to finally be able to get rid of all the money wasting extravagant shit she piled up on in our flat with Dad's hard earned money and cost him his sanity. This woman really has done nothin buy wreaked havoc in all 3 of our lives while pretending to be a saint in front of outsiders
Please don't just say bye to all the items put them in different piles and ask your self if I need them seasonally or every day then sort them out I got rid of a lot of stuff from relative houses and ended up going to buy the same stuff when needed them
Love your videos! One of the things that is rarely mentioned is a cleaning trick that I use. When I start supper, I fill the sink full of hot soapy water. As I have a double sink, using one side for soapy water works well for me as I have access to the other side to rinse veggies etc. As I am cooking, all the things I use in prep work get cleaned as I go. An example of this would be...as I’m waiting for the vegetables to cook I can clean the knife and cutting board. The strainer I use for my pasta can be cleaned before the pasta hardens in it. If the pasta itself is used in a casserole dish then the pasta pot can also be quickly cleaned. This leaves so much less work for after the meal!
I love to cook and make a homemade dinner every night, frequently trying new recipes. I used to say I couldn’t downsize my kitchen stuff, but I was wrong! We got rid of 6 beer glasses, some serving bowls, a giant pan, 4 wine glasses, and then moved some other non cooking items to different areas of the house that made more sense since our kitchen is small.
Joy to the World this is going to be the best Christmas ever. I am taking truck loads to the donation center and my house is now giving me JOY instead of robbing me of it at every turn 🙌🙌😀😍🤩🥳 A million thanks for your videos I am really connecting with your mindset.
I had seen your video about decluttering dishes months ago but I was too chicken. I’m prego now and dishes have become difficult to do at the end of the day and we’re piling up terribly. After watching this I finally had the courage! We are a family of 4 (for now) so I’m doing it your way but we all have 2 sets, for 2 days, and will run the dishwasher on the second day. It’s been 3 days and so far so good! My 5 and 8 year old don’t mind washing their dishes throughout the day and end of day dishes have become sooooo much easier for me! I appreciate all your videos and have encouraged me so much! Thank you!
This is such a great place to start looking at and rethinking my kitchen clutter. My mother and I joined kitchens when we moved in together into our new home with my 2 children. I've run a kitchen for 30 years and my mother has run a kitchen for 50 years -- that's 80 years of kitchen collection combined! There are generational guilt platters, guilt soup terrains, guilt tea cups, etc. I'd like to have a new kitchen and to cook healthier dinners, but I can't even think in this kitchen. I'm inspired to start decluttering.
This is the first stop on my declutwrring and minimizing journey. Let’s see. I have Tupperware that’s been in the garage for years. My mother in law hands down items and pots and pans often. I always feel bad but I have too much. Thank you!!!
When I moved into my new home, I purchased a set of Calphalon stackable pots, a set of 3. I love them! So easy to stack, store & clean. Ditching may old worn out set. Doing the same for may storage plastic. So many pieces of different sizes & lids 😩. Over it. You have some great tips.
Nina K Caphalon has a lifetime warranty on most items if not then it’s 10 years. After around 8 years I always put a claim in with Caphalon and they always replace my entire set with completely new pots and pans.
Hi Dawn, SO SO SO LOVE your channel and all that you do!!!!!! I started decluttering about 6 or so years ago. I totally resonate with your reason for becoming a minimalist! I am starting to see hope in many areas because of simplifying. Your channel has definitely inspired me the most and I’ve prayed for wisdom at times and God has answered me through what you have said or your interaction with one of your family members. As a mother of many with little support, and many trials we have had to journey through of trials, am super grateful!!!! Please continue all that you do.... ps, I have been watching and sharing your videos for ages, and just subscribed. This is the first channel I have ever subscribed too and first time to comment as well. Also watching your channel brings me joy and makes me happy. I’m sure you have that effect on others as well. I really appreciate the way you respect your husband too. Very precious. (Ps, my husband ‘doesn’t like people too’. But he is great with them too. I think it takes a lot of energy to care for others? And deal with various peoples issues 😃)
This is Cindy. I've been watching you for several months and you are an inspiration! I must say this is the most helpful video for me! You've really got me thinking about 2 areas in particular: the tupperware and pots and pans. You are so right about the kitchen being the heart of the home and feeling in control if the kitchen is clean. We have 7 people in our home and it is sooo hard to keep the kitchen clean. Thank you so much for posting this!
We have 7 also old home so little storage space Wish we all had a Tom to build us some shelves. A basement would be heaven. changes clothes out for the seasons Christmas and seasonal decor a place for a tote to put Christmas gifts in as u buy them A laundry room O m goodness it would be SO less stressful
@@Soo_Blessed I agree. The truth is, some homes just do not have the storage that others have and it feels like there are tougher choices to make. I do keep some of my bulkier kitchen items on a baker's rack in the garage like the food processor, stand mixer, large coffee maker, large stock pot. But when we lived in an apartment? It was harder.
I was washing up sheets yesterday for company. I was blown away how many pillow cases we have. 🤣 I think we must wear out our sheets and then just end up storing the pillow cases. Insane!!!
Ok so I watched your video on the vacation kitchen and was so inspired. Went into my kitchen planning to start with mixing bowls. I counted them and I have 15. That's not including cereal bowls. Now I need to preface this by saying I love vintage, which means that these items aren't easily replaced. I think vintage items are better quality as well as loving the aesthetic. I decided I was going to keep 4. One is huge but perfect for summer salads and fruit. So I was struggling with which 3 others to keep. My dad sees what I'm doing and says he likes the 4 nesting enamel bowls. My son hears and chimes in that he like the 3 nesting Pyrex and they match the casserole and dinner plates. Me? I was on the fence about either the Pyrex or the antique Mccoy crockery bowls from the 1920s. End result? All 3 sets were kept and I only managed to part with 6. I'm actually afraid to do my pots and pans now because of the same thing. Part with my stand mixer? No problem. Vintage? Not as easily replaced. Can you come over and help? 😂😭😂😭😂😭
I did purchase and now use an Instapot after watching you and Lydia Senn. I gave away all the appliances and my pressure cooker that it replaced. Today I counted my frying pans. There are 7 in various sizes in stainless steel to cast iron to non stick plus a wok and a full set of hammered stainless steel pots and pans in another dedicated drawer. I spent a lot of money on these items five years ago and have kept them because of that initial outlay. Decisions, decisions! My Vitamix is a “must have” because of existing medical condition so it will stay. My stand mixer now lives on my counter as I can’t easily lift it anymore ( age, shoulder and back issues) and use it frequently.
I had to chuckle today when I heard her ask (on this Dec 2019 video) “what is going to change in the next year that you would use this small appliance?” Too funny.🤣
I didn't think too hard when I started 2 yrs ago. I did a "declutter one item a day" and it just kept turning into more than one item. Today the kitchen is totally decluttered. I donated a ton of those pricey lock -n- locks..there were so many and I don't even miss them!!! Dawn's minimal/clean/simplistic kitchen was my encouragement in the beginning😊 #4..SO WORTH IT!!! Yes, I cannot even go back now to having the Kitchen Aid stand mixer sitting out and..I'm even a baker! It just all comes together if you take Dawn's advice!!
I'm not a baker and we used our stand mixer less than once a month. It was on the counter and I finally found a spot under one side of the kitchen sink (only place it would fit) and I love it not out. I haven't figured out how not to have a knife block out yet. So for now I've got a jar of flowers, my fruit basket, knife block and electric kettle.
@@jennylhenry78 I understand That! We have coffee pot ( husband's), electric kettle ( I drink tea every am, etc), and our silverware caddy setting out. We keep our flatware in the 3 bin caddy instead of in the drawer. We don't have a knife block bc our knives are the kind in the sleeves and we use the same 2 all of the time so they nestle nicely in the utensil drawer.
I use my stand mixer fairly often - and I'd still love to be able to put it up! Sadly, I have health problems and can't deal with the weight of it to get it in and out. So it has a permanent place on the counter, along with my knife block and a utensil jar. But that's it! I used to have much more on my counters! (If I had more than three drawers in the entire tiny kitchen I wouldn't have the knives or utensils out either!).
@@jackietobergte5256 Oh, I use mine all the time too (Kitchenaid here too - they're great!)! I make my own bread, shred chicken, whip egg whites, make cookies, cakes, whip up icing, etc. (I like to bake, what can I say? :D ). I would still prefer it be put up when not in use, but it's not practical, and like you, I'd much rather have it than not. I have a tiny kitchen too. The only place it would fit for me would be under the sink.
What I'm taking from this video this morning is "quarantine" items you aren't sure of. I'm going to do that TODAY! I am the clutter attracter in our house and my poor hubby is so stressed by it. Working from home, I see it more now and want to fix it. I'll start with tidying daily and working through the kitchen. Thanks for the wonderful video!!!
I can really appreciate that your systems work for you and that it cuts down on your stress. I do enjoy watching your videos now and then. My style would really cause you stress. It is having things that I use often, out where I can grab them almost without thinking, and that simplifies my life. My countertops have my mixer, toaster oven, bread machine, electric kettle, and 2 crockpots on them. I actually hate it that I can't leave my bread machine plugged in and have to unwind the cord to use it. I have two good friends, one whose kitchen is like mine only more so, and the other who puts her toaster away as soon as it is cool.
My 15 minute Kitchen declutter turned into 15 hours of clearing out, minimizing by needs and donating and giving away tons of tuff. I haven't felt this satisfied and light in years! 31 years in the same house and collected way too much stuff! You videos have motivated me like no other. Thank YOU! I will add that I still didn't get all my counter space free of things...but hubs keeps walking in and saying how 'big' the kitchen looks now! Good enough!
I recently gave my big Kitchenaid mixer to a friend and bought an inexpensive hand mixer. Takes up way less space and is very light. I figure a hand mixer was good enough for my mother and grandmother 😀
Yes I also have a hand mixer and use a big glass bowl (that has other uses not only cake mixing) I bake a lot and my husband always asks about getting a mixer but it would be such a pain to store
Really enjoyed this. I have a very tiny kitchen and four children. What works for me is to have a very large amount of dishes because I actually feel joy washing dishes. I usually run the dishwasher twice a day because I end up cooking two meals and we fend for ourselves outside of that. We are home all the time so there’s a lot of dishes. And I really love not running out of dishes especially when we have guests. I even keep a big stack of dishes in an extra dresser that we have on our porch. We have an air fryer and hot plate on that dresser to make an outdoor kitchen. I also have three pots and pans and one Dutch oven. That works great for our family, but I just really always have to insist on many many many dishes. I have an open shelf that is right across from my dishwasher, and I have timed myself unloading the dishwasher. It usually takes me 90 seconds or two minutes at the most. Also, I arrange the utensils in quadrants of the dishwasher utensil holder. To make it faster. And so, for the first time in a long time, washing the dishes always brings me a lot of joy and happiness. And the open shelving with my dishes shows me that I use all of my dishes and they are bright colors which add to the decor in my home and in the kitchen.
So timely, thank you! For some reason I've struggled to reduce pots & pans! I just donated 6 this morning, but I probably still have 20+ overflowing from the cupboard. For some reason, I thought I needed teflon and stainless steel pans in various sizes. I was wrong, you are right. There, I said it. #DawnSizing
When you did the How The Much Do You Really Need In Your Kitchen video, I immediately went and purged 2/3 of my kitchen!!! I do keep more than you, even tho there are only 3 of us. But we homestead, homeschool, can year round, and for health reasons have eliminated most boxed/easy foods from our pantry. So we cook 3meals a day from scratch. I am the only one who washes dishes, and I do not like handwashing. So we have 1days worth of dishes. Sometimes I have to handwash a couple pots at the end of the night, but for the most part, they all fit in the dishwasher and it gets run after dinner every night. I would love to purge even more, but my husband does 1/2 the cooking, so I feel he has a say at this point. So every month or so, I place items on our island that we havent used in 3mon or more and tell my husband I want to part with them. He used to say he wanted to keep them and put them all back in the cupboard/drawers. Last month he only put back 2 items!! And he had valid reasons for keeping them for upcoming projects!!! Progress!!!! Thank you so much!!! I have been trying to declutter for years. And it always crept back. But the ways you explain it just click with me! I have changed my shopping habits, and am slowly but steadily achieving the calm and peaceful home I dream about! It is slow going sometimes, but it will happen! 😁
I get the busy lifestyle having recently finished homeschooling. I bake bread for our family and often to sell. I make water and milk kefirs, sauerkraut and I want to get back to sourdough bread, yoghurt and eventually grinding my own flour. We never eat out and rarely buy prepackaged food except for tuna and tomato puree, saltine crackers, etc. It takes a lot of equipment and space to pursue these interests!
I came across your channel yesterday evening, I had watched few already and I can't stop thinking about to start decluttering my whole house, starting from my kitchen. Too bad I haven't seen your channel/videos when we started the quarentine. But it is never too late to start. I need to get rid of the 'Canadian way of buying all the appliances/tools/pot/pans you can' . I need to simplify and go back to my roots. Argetinians cooks way more than Canadians with a quarter of the tools. (in way smaller houses like European style)...I think that is the secret, having less but useful stuff . LOVE your videos, they are sooooo inspiring.... Love from Burlington-ON-Canada!!!!
Since decluttering the kitchen I have not had a full sink of dishes and am no longer using a drying rack. For a family of 8 that’s a huge deal for me. I can not express the relief I feel. Dawn, you are such a fun person and a huge blessing in my life. Thank you!!!!!! Your whole family is amazing!!
Yeah, one dish set per person (I use the ones dawn mentioned in her video a couple kitchen videos back) but I have more utensils then one fork & spoon per person since they don’t take up space. I minimized the pots and pans too. I also minimized the cooking utensils. I do have to wash dishes while cooking but it actually makes clean up and kitchen chores so much easier. If someone needs something and it’s dirty they quickly wash it but that hardly ever happens. It’s weird. I’m not sure how it’s working but it is. Just for some more info to help out we have ages 2-12. 😄
Michelle J I couldn’t either. Dawn’s advice and help has been a game changer. That and a lot of praying to God to ask him to help me figure things out. 😉 good luck!!
Hi Dawn, you really got through to me. I am a saver at heart and after over 20 years in the same house have accumulated quite a bit. I was raised poor so we saved everything and never wasted a penny. In my upbringing, getting rid of = wasting. Tough to get over that mentality. I married a self-employed man and sometimes (many times) we didn't get a paycheck...so the habits have continued. Now...oh well now, I find myself sadly widowed and jobless and I'm telling you, I really really want to get rid of things but also know that there is no money to "just buy another one" of anything once it's all gone. I also fear that the clean/empty look of the house will make me feel twice as empty inside ~ possibly... I am really wanting to de-clutter because we have had to move office & workshop items into my home making it even more crowded. Watching your video and you saying how the clear counters make you feel good, well, I sort of remember that. I am at a very tough crossroads and I am not young. Any advice??
I love it how you talked about this is the season of easy meals.... people get so caught up with what was, what could be that they forget to enjoy the present! Same goes for your body shape, wrinkles, .....
About 6 months ago I ruthlessly simplified my tupperware. After quarantining it for a month, I donated a garbage bag and a half. I have 6 children who pack lunches everyday so we bought inexpensive Ziploc brand bento style Tupperware and everyone uses those and we have a few other pieces for storing food. I love it, it's one less decision in my day and less to clean :) I hate cleaning Tupperware.
Thank you for the valuable content. I've decluttered and chosen the minimal lifestyle and I'm just so blessed and happy I did. I'll admit, I was manic in my decluttering but sometimes that is what works best. All the items are materials that could be replaced that I got rid of. I LOVE waking up in the morning to no dishes in the sink and on the drying rack. I have just a few dishes now so we just put them up after drying immediately. Before, ten plates, twenty cups, five pots, and gobs of silverware would be in the sink and on the rack taunting me. Thank you again. Let me also mention, I love to clean but as a nurse on the days I work I'm gone all day and the last thing I want to do is dishes when I get home. This has eliminated that worry.
Thank you. Lots of good advice. I am 72 and in a different season of life. We were a family of 6, 4 kids. I still enjoy cooking so I'm not ready to reduce my kitchen to minimum. When kids visit I have. 10 or more to cook for. But, your ideas were very flexible and I do benefit from your ideas .
I seriously gave up on trying to keep my counters that clean! I was stressing too much over it, LOL! But I am very satisfied with the progress I have made! Sometimes I want to decorate more for Xmas but what stops me from going too far is I think to myself how I DO NOT want to pack all that stuff away after Xmas! My first minimizing/decluttering inspiration from you was my storage containers! I was so proud and I don't miss any of them!! My coffee cup cabinet is what I'm struggling with the most right now! Oh how I wished I had a drawer for my pots and pans, I have to practically crawl into my cabinet to get the pots way in the back but I will be grateful I at least have he storage for them! As always GREAT VIDEO DAWN!! Thank you so much!!
Sherry Giannone I got roll outs from Home Depot. That way I can look at containers or cans at the back of the space. Works great and stuff doesn’t get lost in the back
When you mentioned trying new recipes all the time and it stressing you out, that hit me! I not only get stressed out. I spend a lot on the little details of getting the recipe to perfection, example : spices I will only use once and then having to store it. I once purchased a new ladle for this one recipe and never used it again. Thank you! I know this video is almost a year old, but I am a slow learner....☺️
I keep my plastics for storing in the fridge, one set, two sizes, antimicrobial, stacking. After all that is where the food is that will go in those bins. I have one set and that is it. I also have four large containers from Dollar Tree that I use for additional 'greens' area. Other ones I have are small ones for extra sauces from take outs that I use to season a dish later, I'm a frugal sort of person. So agree on including the maintaining/care, the value of something is what we can sell it for and not what we pay for it. So agree that the simplified meals is a way to go, such a time and money saver. Such a gift that your kids will grow up this way.
I used to have a juicer, food processor and a blender. I read that you can blend food and then pour it through a sieve for fresh juice, so I got rid of my juicer. Then I couldn’t justify having a food processor and a blender (especially since I only used the food processor once in two years), so out went the food processor. But I NEVER use my blender-I can’t remember the last time I used it. I’ve been trying to justify keeping for the past year or so, but this video has really inspired me. I mean I could always borrow one or pick one up from a thrift store if I truly needed one.
I liked my blended but Loved the smoothie one better, donated the blender. I like my food processor but its do big and bulky compared to my little cuisinart I used to have. I'd rather donate the big one and buy the little on again. Killed the last one. Lol
Prk Nunja I make bean and ham soup or pea soup regularly to use leftover ham and to have nutritious quick to reheat meals when I am pressured for time. I put the soup in the blender once it is cooked to incorporate the lumpier ingredients. I probably use it 2 or 3 times a month.
We use vacation home rentals from time to time and have found them like you described, containing what is needed but not a bunch of extras. In August we rented a large home in Orlando for our son’s wedding. That house was so over stocked it was ridiculous. It was like every renter bought specialty items and left them when they checked out! Closets were filled with extra linens which didn’t match anything. So many colors of towels and so many patterns of sheets and comforters. The garage was full of random extra chairs and when Hurricane Dorian decided to come our way, the owner called me and asked if we could put all the outdoor furniture from the pool area into the already over crowded garage. Yikes. PS Our son had a fabulous wedding and reception at a nearby lake venue and we couldn’t be happier for him and his beautiful bride!
I couldn't get by with that few pans or storage containers, partly because I cook vegetarian food for myself (beans, rice in separate pans) and meat for my daughter. But I could do with fewer. I really appreciated the analysis around appliances.Very smart. My daughter taught at an small elementary school in Taiwan last year (in Kinmen) and after lunch all the children washed their own bowl, plate, and utensils in an outdoor sink, even the littlest ones. It was impressive. And efficient. They had a giant wok in the kitchen and the food was freshly cooked with a lot of vegetables and a soup every day. So much healthier than what our schools do here.
I do a lot of cooking for a couple church committees I’m on and I have managed with only 3 pots and 4 pans (one is a wok type since my family loves Asian food). It’s so nice to reach into an uncluttered drawer and pull out exactly what I need. Dishes, that’s a different story. I love colorful dishes and have two large sets. I have found the more I pare down the easier the paring becomes.
I have so many things racing through my mind right now... I am going to just give a few. 1. PRAY. I have had CFS for a long time. Two weeks ago on a Sunday night in church, I prayed the simplest prayer. I was desperate for God to touch my body. I didn’t realize until three days into the week I was getting up at a decent hour and was going ALL day! That Wednesday it dawned on me... I was living more normal than I had in a long time! I still get tired and I can tell when I am pushing to hard. I stop and rest or go to bed when I get that familiar feeling. God is still teaching me! 2. I have found that we are all in different stages in our lives. That means our needs are different. I no longer have 4 kids at home and half of our youth group at our house anymore. So I have had to learn to cook smaller. BUT, we also eat differently than back then. We also eat leftovers. But, another thing is we have some very elderly couples in our church. They cannot cook for their selves anymore. So, hubby and I pack up meals and tote them over and put them in their freezer or fridge depending on what is going on that week. This is way long so I’m stopping. God bless you and all your viewers!!
James N Brenda I understand what having a disorder that effects you and your ability to keep going because your body doesn’t allow you to. I struggle with my own issues and find that my mind is more than willing to work, continue on, or has the motivation, but my body is just not able or has the ability to move to keep up with the what my mind is. The disconnect is discouraging and depressing which only adds to the debilitating effects felt. I will keep you in my prayers! May you continue to keep feeling well and feeling God help lead you down the path of understanding! Be blessed and thank you for blessing others!
I appreciate “giving permission” when I watch these things. I get so bogged down in getting rid of stuff. I remember when I was reading/listening to a mom talking about getting rid of kids stuff and she “gave me permission” to throw away any books that are scribbled on, torn, or missing pages. It was soooo FREEING to hear her say that.
I'm glad you explained your lack of cooking because this video, I'll have to pass up. Its just not my season, ever for this room to have only 3 pots and pans. My husband is a foodie and this is a marriage deal breaker with lots of cooking needed, I have 3 frying pans going at the same time for most nights of dinner. But all your other videos are super helpful. I do appreciate that you distinguish each persons needs and seasons in life. So Im still following you. You have so much great material.
Love your videos I’ve been going minimalist over a year and still decluttering. The only area I’ve been avoiding is the kitchen! I think it’s time to take your advice and just do it!!!
I love having my plastics and utensils decluttered, it was the first items I worked on when I found your channel and I still marvel at them when I open the drawers and find what I need. I have to work on the food area staying cleaned up ( I don't have a pantry) and downsizing in the number of mixing bowls I have. Love watching all you share!
Love nice tidy kitchen and counters keeping them cleaned off and all small appliances have home in cupboard....thank you dawn. For postive inspiration you give me everyday...
Hi Dawn! You did such a great job with this video! So many great tips! I am a empty nester and I know I have way too much Tupperware, pots and pans, plastic bowls and dishes! I will be donating the majority of them soon. I spent a lot of time today loading up the car with my excess Christmas. Trees, ribbons, decorations, wreaths etc....I just love your channel. I am so grateful to have found you. Thank you for all you do for us! xoxo
I use my Vitamix at least once a day. My instapot 3 times a week. Crock pot once a week. KitchenAid stand mixer a few times a week. I don't know how you don't use these things and eat at home! I really want to declutter but I really do use these things so it would be counterproductive to keep everything in the basement. I've just started watching your channel and really enjoy you and your family. Anyone who will move a huge building to see the sunrise/sunset is my kind of people! :)
Those three words, "you have permission", have completely changed my mindset over the last few days. It's early days for my declutter journey. Thank you for kick-starting me and helping me get rid of guilt!
Needed. This. So. Much!! This was my struggle today. I am now ready to declutter my kitchen with renewed enthusiasm! It was so awesome to hear that things you are holding on to are actually costing you and it's ok to give yourself permission to let them go, that really hit home. Thanks for the motivation!!
I've been binge watching your videos for an hour and its soo refreshing. I dont feel crazy, I feel the exact same way, how the house is managed effects my productivity. Thank u!💚
I have reached the 1 year mark of Minimalism and I'm loving it! I have 7 children (ages 17 to 7) and VERY limited cabinet space in my kitchen. I moved in supplied with a very nice pantry (yay!) and 2 cabinets, 2 small drawers and a good amount of space underneath my sink for cooking items that I use- basically only 3/4ths of a wall including stove to work with minus pantry. I moved in with 30 boxes for my kitchen and it was a labor of love to organize it all before de cluttering. I ended up buying a hutch, an island cart, and putting a small collapsible book shelf in for open cabinet space. This year I moved the island out of my way to try out only using two narrow counter spaces. This Thanksgiving I expected to bring back out the island when preparing and cooking/baking the entire meal for 9 people but decided to challenge myself and not bring it out. It worked out perfectly! I had to wash dishes in between a lot but also my kitchen remained perfectly clean during the entire process plus meal. The kids actually only have 1 plate that is shaped like a wide shallow bowl, shared cups, and one spoon and fork for each of us. Due to the limited plates it takes me no longer than 10-15 minutes to wash all the dishes. I even have been able to turn one of my 2 cabinets into my cooking prep station for can opener, measuring cups and spoons, salt, pepper, oils, and limited glassware for food storage. I know this is lengthy but due to Minimalism I can make this work with only the essentials very organized. I have not missed one thing that I have gotten rid of and it limits me on purchases of things like an air fryer or Instant Pot due to no space and I'm OK with "missing out" and just having a crock pot. I do have an extra crock pot in my attic that I need to use on special occasions/cooking for company. Thank you for your tips! I remember struggling getting rid of mixing bowls but i just did it and haven't missed them.
Inventory ! It’s getting clearer to me !! I hated to do inventory at work! If I think of home as Inventory ( then too I hate it) you’re right I move it all around time as come !!! Let it go !! Thank you !! Keep telling it!!
After some of these vids... I pulled out the set of dishes a coworker handed down to me... AND I bought JUST TWO of each: bowl plates, bowl saucers and cereal size bowls -- THAT I LOVE AND GOT WITH COUPONS TO BED, BATH AND BEYOND!! THEY R SO COOL! I never needed six of everything!! 😉
I decluttered the kitchen and it was good. But now I know I can do more. It’s just the two of us now. Kids are grown and on their own. Now seeing yours, I want to get us down to just what we would use daily ourselves. I can keep a bin with a few extra place settings for the occasional visits that do occur. But all the fluff stuff can now go. I even made a cake using only a whisk and spoon and it cane out great! So thanks for the inspiration! I will deep declutter this time and know that anything I donate I can, like you say, find again or horror for that one time use.
Honestly? The thought has crossed my mind, that I don't need more storage containers than what could fit into my fridge at one time. I think four large and four small? I definitely like the square ones and glass ones. I'm trying to look at my awkward fridge as a blessing. I probably shouldn't be keeping so much in there anyways. I have no idea why they are so big outside and so little shelf space???
Hi Dawn❣️I just have to say I love you 😊I have watched so many of your videos and you have helped me soo much! You are so down to earth, give really good advice and are soo sweet! You have found your path in life, thanks be to God! I am hoping to get my husband on board-he’s a tough cookie😂
I've simplified my kitchen so much in the last couple years. One thing I also learned was what to do when I went away. I make sure to have paper products for when I'm gone and place paper plates, cups, and bowls out on the island for them to use. Saved soooo many arguments because I use to come home to dirty dishes and had the expectation they would do things like me. Now they just throw things away and since we don't do it all the time I feel its a "necessity" for our family when I am gone.
Tracy Signer Same here!! It’s not eco-friendly which bugs me sometimes, but it saves on sanity for our fam of 8, for sure! Sometimes you just gotta survive. ❤️
I have 2 kids and rarely bottle fed them. Given this I still have like 12 baby bottles in my cupboard. Thank you for reminding me that having it sit there is wasting time space and money. Lol. They are out and about to be gifted RN.
I really like the minitature type appliances for those few times you might need something. Of course depends on how much you use them. For example the single serving type blender like a bullet blender, miniature food processer, i might even switch to a smaller crock pot. Cheaper, easier to clean or put in dishwasher, fits on a small shelf. We are a family of 3 so this works for us.
Having the thought of a better life if I move, and the cost of moving a long distance, has made it easier for me to pare down. I just made the decision 3 days ago and have been able to get a considerable amount out of my kitchen. Your idea of one place setting per person inspired me although I admit I've kept two... And I live alone now. I'll also keep more pots and pans but will be cutting down there also. Your's is by far the most inspirational video I've seen and I admit to searching for a few months. Thank you! Oh! I've had my Vitamix for well over 20 years. Do you know you can make ice cream in it? And soups? I put a couple of mouse pads under it to help cut down on the noise. For me, that was the downside. Thanks again! 💫💐
We have also gone to one place setting per person and it’s a game changer! We have extra tall cupboards where we keep the remaining dishes for when we host Thanksgiving. They are high enough that we need to bring in a step stool so it’s easier to wash a dish rather than climb up for another one! 🤣
Thank you, thank you, thank you! I just took TWO huge storage totes full of things I havnt used in years and don't need (no one needs 27 cups and 42 forks). It took me less than one afternoon, and my kitchen in now an enjoyable THAT I CAN KEEP CLEAN!
I agree for the most part, but I was wondering as she talked about it: what does she do when there are guests? She mentioned storing stuff in their basement, so I guess that's the answer. It would be nice to have a basement.
I've always had the attitude that once I've purchased something it no longer has any monetary value so I won't to sell it, but still have trouble letting go. When I'm in a decluttering mood and thinking about getting rid of bigger ticket items I always reach out to family and friends and have found new homes for appliances, chairs, music systems etc., even paving stones I pulled up from my patio. I just gave my 40+ year old record collection to my nephew and grandniece and spread much joy. And didn't take any of the albums back even when my nephew made the offer because a lot of the ones from the 60's are collectors items and worth $$$. A friend once bought a breadmaker, back when they were first on the market and pretty expensive, with two other couples and the passed it around every few months. It stayed a novelty and they used it often while they had it, and then had a little break from it.
Re storage containers. I replaced my plastic ones with glass, then donated most except I kept several plastic ones and glad that I did as I found uses for them in the garage to organize nails, screws, tools, even scoopers for sand and deicing materials in winter and some were used inside the car for various items.
Wow thanks I’m going to tackle cupboards today, I have a large kitchen a and every cupboard is crammed full. When I think about it I have three cupboards of China just for two of us 😱 so something needs to go and don’t get me started on Tupperware 😂 Your video is just the incentive I need to get it sorted thank you x
I agree with you on simplifying the kitchen. I am doing mine but slowly. I have a shoebox size tote I put utensils I’m not sure about getting rid of and so far only pulled one item out for hubby and then put it back cause he said you are right I don’t like using it, guess those items will be donated soon, lol I am keeping mental note of what I use and when I see an item just sitting, it gets donated. I hope to step my pace up to finish soon, what I have declutter is so much easier to use and nicer to “manage” as you say. Thank you for your wonderful tips and great encouragement to those of us still in the process mode.
We lived in Hong Kong for 7 years in 700 sq ft spaces so we couldn’t have a lot of stuff. When we moved back to the US and built a house I wanted to keep things minimal in the kitchen. Even still we could do better! I’m ready to do another purge!
I’m moving with my family of 8 right after Christmas, & even though the new place is bigger & the kitchen is 2x the size, I’m decluttering like crazy. Everyone who walks through points out all the things I could put in the kitchen cupboards while I’m over here thinking, “I may actually be able to have empty spaces in my cupboards. Yay!!”
Hi Dawn, I got rid of a lot of containers because the mismatched Lids in the various sizes were causing me a lot of stress in trying to find the ones that would match. Since I've done that, one of the things that works for me is having a large roll of foil from Costco that is heavy duty and if I am packing things for people to take home, that foil is very sturdy 4 take away food packages and the roll lasts forever!
Thanhs so much for this video! I have baby twins and never thought I’d have time to to de clutter my kitchen but after watching this video I did! And I donated a bunch of things which felt great. Thanks again
Thank you for the good reminders and strategies. After watching your "Vacation Kitchen" video awhile back, I decluttered my kitchen over two rounds; after this, I'll go back for a third :-). The difference is amazing! My husband commented on the peacefulness, the cleanup is so easy now, and we definitely cook more at home. And because of all the noticeable benefits and cooking more, my husband bought me a new double-door fridge to replace our smaller old one + our older basement one. (I had already decluttered and unplugged it to save $$). Now I have room to make more meals through the week and save leftovers for a weekend off, all while saving money. Best of all, walking into the kitchen is now a delight instead of a drudgery. For anyone considering this, Go For It! :-D
You’re great at decluttering. Thanks for your tips. So many are just amazing. My only difference is that I think the center aisle desperately needs a fruit bowl centerpiece. Especially with kids. Bananas, apples, pears, plums, peaches, etc. That’s what the kids grab after school or for a snack. And a beautiful brass or marble bowl is gorgeous-just match the color and decor of your kitchen.
I would LOVE to see a tool 🔧 declutter video for the men in our lives. We have recently moved from a 6 bedroom 4 bath home With a 3 stall garage and an additional storage shed down to a home that's under 1000 sq feet. I've purged about 8 times and I'm about to do a 9th time. So many things !!
I am a maximalist, however once in blue moon, I watch things like this, and your clip helps me to get rid of things right away, donate, gift out and organize and declutter and sort out things, very inspirational. thank you.
I really enjoy all of the comments. One thing I forgot to mention is that I do not minimize dishes. I do not have children at home anymore, so dishes are not a big problem. I love dishes and have several sets. When our grandchildren (of which we have many) come they love to set a pretty table and take delight in choosing which dishes to use! It is a special treat for them, because most families with a lot of children need really practical plates (when our children were young we had one set of the prettiest Corning-ware dishes I could find). So my dishes are part of blessing my family! Have you ever heard that excuse for hanging onto something? :)
If you have the space, what a lovely gift for your grandchildren to enjoy the beauty of settling a pretty table. My father’s mother had beautiful china everyday dishes with a sweet flower pattern, and everyday (real) silverware. I fondly remember using them. I inherited the silverware and my sister inherited the dishes. They speak to me of those precious days in her peaceful household and being surrounded with lovely things being used everyday.
It's just 2 of us, so dishes aren't the issue, but at the end of the day, it's the plastic containers that are stacked in my sink. I would love to simplify the plastic situation, but haven't figured it out. We both take our lunches to work and we always have leftovers in process. I also clean and prep my veggies each week, so those are in plastic ware. Gotta mull this over to see how I can simplify.
Thank you for watching!!! You can find the free printable decluttering guides for kitchen, sentimental & general items here: www.ithinkwecouldbefriends.com/2019/12/05/decluttering-questions-free-printable/
What do you do with things like fruit that goes on the counter or knife blocks?
❤️ I hope you will take this comment in the spirit in which I intend it:
People, particularly those who profess Jesus as their Savior should be mindful of using the word, "awesome".The G0D of Abraham, Isaac and Jacob or His Creation is AWESOME. I find it very strange watching scripture come to fruition and now everyone uses the word awesome. A utensil or appliance may work well but it is not awesome. ❤️ Love your vids❤️
I did put my stand mixer away. I keep out those things I use daily. Coffee pot, cookie jar ;) knife block. It does feel complete when it is just daily use stuff.
@@liorajimenez3085 Don’t worry, the frequent use of “awesome” is just a fashion in language. I bet it will pass. At one time people said “groovy!”
@@carolynworthington8996 OMGoodness! You missed the point entirely! LOL. Oh well, have a good day.
I am currently decluttering my kitchen and had put a bunch of random specialize utensils in a basket on a high shelf because I didn’t know what to do with them. Not five minutes later I heard the part about “do I really want to deal with these AGAIN?” I climbed right back up and the majority of those utensils are now in my donate pile 👍🏻 Thanks for calling me out!
My husband and I live in a 5th wheel camper. He's a trucker driver who is gone 3 to 4 months at a time. I have a ton of things I don't use or need for just 2 people. This has inspired me to declutter. I realized I don't need 2 coffee pots and a French press, a slow cooker and an insta pot, ton of dishes
It's a camper! We chose this life to minimize but didn't! Time to start!! Thank you.
Wow. Great points. I hope it went well or is going well for you!
X😊😊 lol
This is just what I needed to hear!!! After fussing because I was tired of me always ending up stuck inside doing house stuff while hubby gets to do my favorite outside jobs I figured our current "a little decluttering here and there" wasn't working. I announced that if I'm managing the inside we were changing the rules. I'm tearing through the kitchen first since you took me off the hook for all the small appliances that haven't worked out and downsizing pots and pans. To be able to go outside where I'd rather be my mental list of inventory is narrowing down to what's manageable for ME!! Wish me luck!!! Love the Guided Decluttering!!
Peg Brown What a great statement “we’re changing the rules!” I haven’t even watched yet but am excited cuz I need this one. I’ve decluttered my kitchen but realizing not enough. Thanks, Dawn!
Looooove this!!! Way to go!!!👍♥️💪
Good for you! You go girl! Update on your progress please! Blessings ❤
Good for you!!! The process of decluttering our house started in the kitchen because it is MY domain, and not having to ask anyone permission is so empowering.
Hi Peg, how did it go?
One of the things I love the most about your decluttering of dishes in particular is that the kids get a sense of responsibility to clean up after themselves and take responsibility for their special set of unique dishes you created. I think that’s a wonderful lesson that they’re learning at an early age and one that will transfer to so many other parts of their lives.
You’re an awesome mom!!!
I have a husband and 2 teens, wondering where I can stash the extra that is convenient but people won't be pulling out because they dont want to wash! Lol Maybe tape the extra together like in a thrift shop... I'll try that first! Lol
My life has been changed by the concepts you share!
You are so great at explaining decluttering in a way that takes the guilt out of the whole process. The guilt is always what has kept me from getting my house exactly the way that works for our family. Thank you so much for your videos. :)
Ditto
HI Dawn , I love your videos ! Recently I helped my mom declutter the kitchen ! I love minimalism ! Yes, I am 12 years old , but we made a lot of progress in the kitchen ! It felt good !! I only made one problem ... got rid of my dad's good soup pan .Lol.. My fault ... not my moms ! Haha ! But the overall was good ! Thank you for your tip phrases , I quote you all the time ! THank you ! Great video !
You're amazing Brielle!
This is awesome! Great job!!
I would give up my favorite pot if my children wanted to clean my kitchen!! This made my day Brielle! Thank you!
Wow!!! Way to go!!!! ♥️👍
My gosh good job :) I cannot type but dang.
I purchased my grandmother's home after she passed and there was a ton of stuff left behind..... that's what I struggled with getting rid of! I've lived here for 18 years! I know I have cookware I've only touched to move from one spot to another. It's time to let it go...... That will be my weekend goal!
I cant wait for my mother to die to finally be able to get rid of all the money wasting extravagant shit she piled up on in our flat with Dad's hard earned money and cost him his sanity. This woman really has done nothin buy wreaked havoc in all 3 of our lives while pretending to be a saint in front of outsiders
Please don't just say bye to all the items put them in different piles and ask your self if I need them seasonally or every day then sort them out I got rid of a lot of stuff from relative houses and ended up going to buy the same stuff when needed them
Love your videos!
One of the things that is rarely mentioned is a cleaning trick that I use. When I start supper, I fill the sink full of hot soapy water. As I have a double sink, using one side for soapy water works well for me as I have access to the other side to rinse veggies etc. As I am cooking, all the things I use in prep work get cleaned as I go. An example of this would be...as I’m waiting for the vegetables to cook I can clean the knife and cutting board. The strainer I use for my pasta can be cleaned before the pasta hardens in it. If the pasta itself is used in a casserole dish then the pasta pot can also be quickly cleaned. This leaves so much less work for after the meal!
I love to cook and make a homemade dinner every night, frequently trying new recipes. I used to say I couldn’t downsize my kitchen stuff, but I was wrong! We got rid of 6 beer glasses, some serving bowls, a giant pan, 4 wine glasses, and then moved some other non cooking items to different areas of the house that made more sense since our kitchen is small.
Joy to the World this is going to be the best Christmas ever. I am taking truck loads to the donation center and my house is now giving me JOY instead of robbing me of it at every turn 🙌🙌😀😍🤩🥳 A million thanks for your videos I am really connecting with your mindset.
I had seen your video about decluttering dishes months ago but I was too chicken. I’m prego now and dishes have become difficult to do at the end of the day and we’re piling up terribly. After watching this I finally had the courage! We are a family of 4 (for now) so I’m doing it your way but we all have 2 sets, for 2 days, and will run the dishwasher on the second day. It’s been 3 days and so far so good! My 5 and 8 year old don’t mind washing their dishes throughout the day and end of day dishes have become sooooo much easier for me! I appreciate all your videos and have encouraged me so much! Thank you!
This is such a great place to start looking at and rethinking my kitchen clutter. My mother and I joined kitchens when we moved in together into our new home with my 2 children. I've run a kitchen for 30 years and my mother has run a kitchen for 50 years -- that's 80 years of kitchen collection combined! There are generational guilt platters, guilt soup terrains, guilt tea cups, etc. I'd like to have a new kitchen and to cook healthier dinners, but I can't even think in this kitchen. I'm inspired to start decluttering.
This is the first stop on my declutwrring and minimizing journey. Let’s see. I have Tupperware that’s been in the garage for years. My mother in law hands down items and pots and pans often. I always feel bad but I have too much. Thank you!!!
When I moved into my new home, I purchased a set of Calphalon stackable pots, a set of 3. I love them! So easy to stack, store & clean. Ditching may old worn out set. Doing the same for may storage plastic. So many pieces of different sizes & lids 😩. Over it. You have some great tips.
Nina K Caphalon has a lifetime warranty on most items if not then it’s 10 years. After around 8 years I always put a claim in with Caphalon and they always replace my entire set with completely new pots and pans.
Hi Dawn, SO SO SO LOVE your channel and all that you do!!!!!! I started decluttering about 6 or so years ago. I totally resonate with your reason for becoming a minimalist! I am starting to see hope in many areas because of simplifying. Your channel has definitely inspired me the most and I’ve prayed for wisdom at times and God has answered me through what you have said or your interaction with one of your family members. As a mother of many with little support, and many trials we have had to journey through of trials, am super grateful!!!! Please continue all that you do.... ps, I have been watching and sharing your videos for ages, and just subscribed. This is the first channel I have ever subscribed too and first time to comment as well. Also watching your channel brings me joy and makes me happy. I’m sure you have that effect on others as well. I really appreciate the way you respect your husband too. Very precious. (Ps, my husband ‘doesn’t like people too’. But he is great with them too. I think it takes a lot of energy to care for others? And deal with various peoples issues 😃)
Wow, THANK YOU so much, this means more than you know!! ♥️😊
I already have a whole stack of stuff ready to leave my kitchen just while watching this video! Thanks so much for inspiring me!!!
Wahoo!!! Way to go!!! ♥️👍
Me too!
This is Cindy. I've been watching you for several months and you are an inspiration! I must say this is the most helpful video for me! You've really got me thinking about 2 areas in particular: the tupperware and pots and pans. You are so right about the kitchen being the heart of the home and feeling in control if the kitchen is clean. We have 7 people in our home and it is sooo hard to keep the kitchen clean. Thank you so much for posting this!
So glad to hear this Cindy!!! ♥️👍
We have 7 also old home so little storage space Wish we all had a Tom to build us some shelves. A basement would be heaven. changes clothes out for the seasons Christmas and seasonal decor a place for a tote to put Christmas gifts in as u buy them A laundry room O m goodness
it would be SO less stressful
@@Soo_Blessed I agree. The truth is, some homes just do not have the storage that others have and it feels like there are tougher choices to make. I do keep some of my bulkier kitchen items on a baker's rack in the garage like the food processor, stand mixer, large coffee maker, large stock pot. But when we lived in an apartment? It was harder.
I was washing up sheets yesterday for company. I was blown away how many pillow cases we have. 🤣 I think we must wear out our sheets and then just end up storing the pillow cases. Insane!!!
Ok so I watched your video on the vacation kitchen and was so inspired. Went into my kitchen planning to start with mixing bowls. I counted them and I have 15. That's not including cereal bowls. Now I need to preface this by saying I love vintage, which means that these items aren't easily replaced. I think vintage items are better quality as well as loving the aesthetic. I decided I was going to keep 4. One is huge but perfect for summer salads and fruit. So I was struggling with which 3 others to keep. My dad sees what I'm doing and says he likes the 4 nesting enamel bowls. My son hears and chimes in that he like the 3 nesting Pyrex and they match the casserole and dinner plates. Me? I was on the fence about either the Pyrex or the antique Mccoy crockery bowls from the 1920s. End result? All 3 sets were kept and I only managed to part with 6. I'm actually afraid to do my pots and pans now because of the same thing. Part with my stand mixer? No problem. Vintage? Not as easily replaced. Can you come over and help?
😂😭😂😭😂😭
I did purchase and now use an Instapot after watching you and Lydia Senn. I gave away all the appliances and my pressure cooker that it replaced. Today I counted my frying pans. There are 7 in various sizes in stainless steel to cast iron to non stick plus a wok and a full set of hammered stainless steel pots and pans in another dedicated drawer. I spent a lot of money on these items five years ago and have kept them because of that initial outlay. Decisions, decisions! My Vitamix is a “must have” because of existing medical condition so it will stay. My stand mixer now lives on my counter as I can’t easily lift it anymore ( age, shoulder and back issues) and use it frequently.
I had to chuckle today when I heard her ask (on this Dec 2019 video) “what is going to change in the next year that you would use this small appliance?” Too funny.🤣
I didn't think too hard when I started 2 yrs ago. I did a "declutter one item a day" and it just kept turning into more than one item. Today the kitchen is totally decluttered. I donated a ton of those pricey lock -n- locks..there were so many and I don't even miss them!!! Dawn's minimal/clean/simplistic kitchen was my encouragement in the beginning😊 #4..SO WORTH IT!!! Yes, I cannot even go back now to having the Kitchen Aid stand mixer sitting out and..I'm even a baker! It just all comes together if you take Dawn's advice!!
I'm not a baker and we used our stand mixer less than once a month. It was on the counter and I finally found a spot under one side of the kitchen sink (only place it would fit) and I love it not out. I haven't figured out how not to have a knife block out yet. So for now I've got a jar of flowers, my fruit basket, knife block and electric kettle.
@@jennylhenry78 I understand That! We have coffee pot ( husband's), electric kettle ( I drink tea every am, etc), and our silverware caddy setting out. We keep our flatware in the 3 bin caddy instead of in the drawer. We don't have a knife block bc our knives are the kind in the sleeves and we use the same 2 all of the time so they nestle nicely in the utensil drawer.
I use my stand mixer fairly often - and I'd still love to be able to put it up! Sadly, I have health problems and can't deal with the weight of it to get it in and out. So it has a permanent place on the counter, along with my knife block and a utensil jar. But that's it! I used to have much more on my counters! (If I had more than three drawers in the entire tiny kitchen I wouldn't have the knives or utensils out either!).
@@jackietobergte5256 Oh, I use mine all the time too (Kitchenaid here too - they're great!)! I make my own bread, shred chicken, whip egg whites, make cookies, cakes, whip up icing, etc. (I like to bake, what can I say? :D ). I would still prefer it be put up when not in use, but it's not practical, and like you, I'd much rather have it than not. I have a tiny kitchen too. The only place it would fit for me would be under the sink.
What I'm taking from this video this morning is "quarantine" items you aren't sure of. I'm going to do that TODAY! I am the clutter attracter in our house and my poor hubby is so stressed by it. Working from home, I see it more now and want to fix it. I'll start with tidying daily and working through the kitchen. Thanks for the wonderful video!!!
Luv that you succinctly/concisely present-no rambling on about things we don’t need to know. Thank you, thank you, thank you.
I can really appreciate that your systems work for you and that it cuts down on your stress. I do enjoy watching your videos now and then. My style would really cause you stress. It is having things that I use often, out where I can grab them almost without thinking, and that simplifies my life. My countertops have my mixer, toaster oven, bread machine, electric kettle, and 2 crockpots on them. I actually hate it that I can't leave my bread machine plugged in and have to unwind the cord to use it. I have two good friends, one whose kitchen is like mine only more so, and the other who puts her toaster away as soon as it is cool.
Great content! I’m 76, recently became addicted to your videos! Keep em coming!
My 15 minute Kitchen declutter turned into 15 hours of clearing out, minimizing by needs and donating and giving away tons of tuff. I haven't felt this satisfied and light in years!
31 years in the same house and collected way too much stuff! You videos have motivated me like no other. Thank YOU!
I will add that I still didn't get all my counter space free of things...but hubs keeps walking in and saying how 'big' the kitchen looks now! Good enough!
I recently gave my big Kitchenaid mixer to a friend and bought an inexpensive hand mixer. Takes up way less space and is very light. I figure a hand mixer was good enough for my mother and grandmother 😀
Yes I also have a hand mixer and use a big glass bowl (that has other uses not only cake mixing) I bake a lot and my husband always asks about getting a mixer but it would be such a pain to store
D M I borrowed my MIL’s Kitchenaid mixer and realized that I wouldn’t enjoy using it and it’s way easier to stick with my little $10 hand mixer.
Really enjoyed this. I have a very tiny kitchen and four children. What works for me is to have a very large amount of dishes because I actually feel joy washing dishes. I usually run the dishwasher twice a day because I end up cooking two meals and we fend for ourselves outside of that. We are home all the time so there’s a lot of dishes. And I really love not running out of dishes especially when we have guests. I even keep a big stack of dishes in an extra dresser that we have on our porch. We have an air fryer and hot plate on that dresser to make an outdoor kitchen. I also have three pots and pans and one Dutch oven. That works great for our family, but I just really always have to insist on many many many dishes. I have an open shelf that is right across from my dishwasher, and I have timed myself unloading the dishwasher. It usually takes me 90 seconds or two minutes at the most. Also, I arrange the utensils in quadrants of the dishwasher utensil holder. To make it faster. And so, for the first time in a long time, washing the dishes always brings me a lot of joy and happiness. And the open shelving with my dishes shows me that I use all of my dishes and they are bright colors which add to the decor in my home and in the kitchen.
So timely, thank you! For some reason I've struggled to reduce pots & pans! I just donated 6 this morning, but I probably still have 20+ overflowing from the cupboard. For some reason, I thought I needed teflon and stainless steel pans in various sizes. I was wrong, you are right. There, I said it. #DawnSizing
😍 the hashtag!
The hashtag needs to go viral😂🙌
@@picframe000 seriously! People on Instagram should start using it with all their after photos.
Great hashtag!
#Dawnsizing!!! 😂😂❤️❤️❤️
When you did the How The Much Do You Really Need In Your Kitchen video, I immediately went and purged 2/3 of my kitchen!!! I do keep more than you, even tho there are only 3 of us. But we homestead, homeschool, can year round, and for health reasons have eliminated most boxed/easy foods from our pantry. So we cook 3meals a day from scratch. I am the only one who washes dishes, and I do not like handwashing. So we have 1days worth of dishes. Sometimes I have to handwash a couple pots at the end of the night, but for the most part, they all fit in the dishwasher and it gets run after dinner every night. I would love to purge even more, but my husband does 1/2 the cooking, so I feel he has a say at this point. So every month or so, I place items on our island that we havent used in 3mon or more and tell my husband I want to part with them. He used to say he wanted to keep them and put them all back in the cupboard/drawers. Last month he only put back 2 items!! And he had valid reasons for keeping them for upcoming projects!!! Progress!!!! Thank you so much!!! I have been trying to declutter for years. And it always crept back. But the ways you explain it just click with me! I have changed my shopping habits, and am slowly but steadily achieving the calm and peaceful home I dream about! It is slow going sometimes, but it will happen! 😁
I get the busy lifestyle having recently finished homeschooling. I bake bread for our family and often to sell. I make water and milk kefirs, sauerkraut and I want to get back to sourdough bread, yoghurt and eventually grinding my own flour. We never eat out and rarely buy prepackaged food except for tuna and tomato puree, saltine crackers, etc. It takes a lot of equipment and space to pursue these interests!
I came across your channel yesterday evening, I had watched few already and I can't stop thinking about to start decluttering my whole house, starting from my kitchen. Too bad I haven't seen your channel/videos when we started the quarentine. But it is never too late to start. I need to get rid of the 'Canadian way of buying all the appliances/tools/pot/pans you can' . I need to simplify and go back to my roots. Argetinians cooks way more than Canadians with a quarter of the tools. (in way smaller houses like European style)...I think that is the secret, having less but useful stuff . LOVE your videos, they are sooooo inspiring.... Love from Burlington-ON-Canada!!!!
I bought a standing mixer I never used ! I gave it to a new bride and she was thrilled and I used the space saved to organize things I use everyday !
I cannot imagine my life without one. :O
Since decluttering the kitchen I have not had a full sink of dishes and am no longer using a drying rack. For a family of 8 that’s a huge deal for me. I can not express the relief I feel. Dawn, you are such a fun person and a huge blessing in my life. Thank you!!!!!! Your whole family is amazing!!
How do you keep up on dishes? Did you downsize to 1 dish ser per person?
Yeah, one dish set per person (I use the ones dawn mentioned in her video a couple kitchen videos back) but I have more utensils then one fork & spoon per person since they don’t take up space. I minimized the pots and pans too. I also minimized the cooking utensils. I do have to wash dishes while cooking but it actually makes clean up and kitchen chores so much easier. If someone needs something and it’s dirty they quickly wash it but that hardly ever happens. It’s weird. I’m not sure how it’s working but it is. Just for some more info to help out we have ages 2-12. 😄
@@jessandjessica452 wow I'll have to try that! I have 3 kids and I cant seem to keep up.
Michelle J I couldn’t either. Dawn’s advice and help has been a game changer. That and a lot of praying to God to ask him to help me figure things out. 😉 good luck!!
This video, was my aha moment. Translates to every aspect of my home. Has given me hope to completely Declutter my entire home.
Hi Dawn, you really got through to me. I am a saver at heart and after over 20 years in the same house have accumulated quite a bit. I was raised poor so we saved everything and never wasted a penny. In my upbringing, getting rid of = wasting. Tough to get over that mentality. I married a self-employed man and sometimes (many times) we didn't get a paycheck...so the habits have continued. Now...oh well now, I find myself sadly widowed and jobless and I'm telling you, I really really want to get rid of things but also know that there is no money to "just buy another one" of anything once it's all gone. I also fear that the clean/empty look of the house will make me feel twice as empty inside ~ possibly... I am really wanting to de-clutter because we have had to move office & workshop items into my home making it even more crowded. Watching your video and you saying how the clear counters make you feel good, well, I sort of remember that. I am at a very tough crossroads and I am not young. Any advice??
I love it how you talked about this is the season of easy meals.... people get so caught up with what was, what could be that they forget to enjoy the present! Same goes for your body shape, wrinkles, .....
About 6 months ago I ruthlessly simplified my tupperware. After quarantining it for a month, I donated a garbage bag and a half. I have 6 children who pack lunches everyday so we bought inexpensive Ziploc brand bento style Tupperware and everyone uses those and we have a few other pieces for storing food. I love it, it's one less decision in my day and less to clean :) I hate cleaning Tupperware.
Thank you for the valuable content. I've decluttered and chosen the minimal lifestyle and I'm just so blessed and happy I did. I'll admit, I was manic in my decluttering but sometimes that is what works best. All the items are materials that could be replaced that I got rid of. I LOVE waking up in the morning to no dishes in the sink and on the drying rack. I have just a few dishes now so we just put them up after drying immediately. Before, ten plates, twenty cups, five pots, and gobs of silverware would be in the sink and on the rack taunting me. Thank you again. Let me also mention, I love to clean but as a nurse on the days I work I'm gone all day and the last thing I want to do is dishes when I get home. This has eliminated that worry.
Thank you. Lots of good advice. I am 72 and in a different season of life. We were a family of 6, 4 kids. I still enjoy cooking so I'm not ready to reduce my kitchen to minimum. When kids visit I have. 10 or more to cook for. But, your ideas were very flexible and I do benefit from your ideas .
I seriously gave up on trying to keep my counters that clean! I was stressing too much over it, LOL! But I am very satisfied with the progress I have made! Sometimes I want to decorate more for Xmas but what stops me from going too far is I think to myself how I DO NOT want to pack all that stuff away after Xmas! My first minimizing/decluttering inspiration from you was my storage containers! I was so proud and I don't miss any of them!! My coffee cup cabinet is what I'm struggling with the most right now! Oh how I wished I had a drawer for my pots and pans, I have to practically crawl into my cabinet to get the pots way in the back but I will be grateful I at least have he storage for them! As always GREAT VIDEO DAWN!! Thank you so much!!
Sherry Giannone I got roll outs from Home Depot. That way I can look at containers or cans at the back of the space. Works great and stuff doesn’t get lost in the back
When you mentioned trying new recipes all the time and it stressing you out, that hit me! I not only get stressed out. I spend a lot on the little details of getting the recipe to perfection, example : spices I will only use once and then having to store it. I once purchased a new ladle for this one recipe and never used it again. Thank you! I know this video is almost a year old, but I am a slow learner....☺️
Oh my goodness... Gage’s little hand scrubbing his dishes. So cute! Way to go mom!
I keep my plastics for storing in the fridge, one set, two sizes, antimicrobial, stacking. After all that is where the food is that will go in those bins. I have one set and that is it. I also have four large containers from Dollar Tree that I use for additional 'greens' area. Other ones I have are small ones for extra sauces from take outs that I use to season a dish later, I'm a frugal sort of person. So agree on including the maintaining/care, the value of something is what we can sell it for and not what we pay for it. So agree that the simplified meals is a way to go, such a time and money saver. Such a gift that your kids will grow up this way.
I used to have a juicer, food processor and a blender. I read that you can blend food and then pour it through a sieve for fresh juice, so I got rid of my juicer. Then I couldn’t justify having a food processor and a blender (especially since I only used the food processor once in two years), so out went the food processor. But I NEVER use my blender-I can’t remember the last time I used it. I’ve been trying to justify keeping for the past year or so, but this video has really inspired me. I mean I could always borrow one or pick one up from a thrift store if I truly needed one.
I liked my blended but Loved the smoothie one better, donated the blender. I like my food processor but its do big and bulky compared to my little cuisinart I used to have. I'd rather donate the big one and buy the little on again. Killed the last one. Lol
Prk Nunja I make bean and ham soup or pea soup regularly to use leftover ham and to have nutritious quick to reheat meals when I am pressured for time. I put the soup in the blender once it is cooked to incorporate the lumpier ingredients. I probably use it 2 or 3 times a month.
Get a good stick blender!
It takes up very little space!
We use vacation home rentals from time to time and have found them like you described, containing what is needed but not a bunch of extras. In August we rented a large home in Orlando for our son’s wedding. That house was so over stocked it was ridiculous. It was like every renter bought specialty items and left them when they checked out! Closets were filled with extra linens which didn’t match anything. So many colors of towels and so many patterns of sheets and comforters. The garage was full of random extra chairs and when Hurricane Dorian decided to come our way, the owner called me and asked if we could put all the outdoor furniture from the pool area into the already over crowded garage. Yikes. PS Our son had a fabulous wedding and reception at a nearby lake venue and we couldn’t be happier for him and his beautiful bride!
I couldn't get by with that few pans or storage containers, partly because I cook vegetarian food for myself (beans, rice in separate pans) and meat for my daughter. But I could do with fewer. I really appreciated the analysis around appliances.Very smart. My daughter taught at an small elementary school in Taiwan last year (in Kinmen) and after lunch all the children washed their own bowl, plate, and utensils in an outdoor sink, even the littlest ones. It was impressive. And efficient. They had a giant wok in the kitchen and the food was freshly cooked with a lot of vegetables and a soup every day. So much healthier than what our schools do here.
I do a lot of cooking for a couple church committees I’m on and I have managed with only 3 pots and 4 pans (one is a wok type since my family loves Asian food). It’s so nice to reach into an uncluttered drawer and pull out exactly what I need. Dishes, that’s a different story. I love colorful dishes and have two large sets. I have found the more I pare down the easier the paring becomes.
I have so many things racing through my mind right now... I am going to just give a few.
1. PRAY. I have had CFS for a long time. Two weeks ago on a Sunday night in church, I prayed the simplest prayer. I was desperate for God to touch my body. I didn’t realize until three days into the week I was getting up at a decent hour and was going ALL day! That Wednesday it dawned on me... I was living more normal than I had in a long time! I still get tired and I can tell when I am pushing to hard. I stop and rest or go to bed when I get that familiar feeling. God is still teaching me!
2. I have found that we are all in different stages in our lives. That means our needs are different. I no longer have 4 kids at home and half of our youth group at our house anymore. So I have had to learn to cook smaller.
BUT, we also eat differently than back then. We also eat leftovers.
But, another thing is we have some very elderly couples in our church. They cannot cook for their selves anymore. So, hubby and I pack up meals and tote them over and put them in their freezer or fridge depending on what is going on that week.
This is way long so I’m stopping. God bless you and all your viewers!!
James N Brenda I understand what having a disorder that effects you and your ability to keep going because your body doesn’t allow you to. I struggle with my own issues and find that my mind is more than willing to work, continue on, or has the motivation, but my body is just not able or has the ability to move to keep up with the what my mind is. The disconnect is discouraging and depressing which only adds to the debilitating effects felt. I will keep you in my prayers! May you continue to keep feeling well and feeling God help lead you down the path of understanding! Be blessed and thank you for blessing others!
I appreciate “giving permission” when I watch these things. I get so bogged down in getting rid of stuff. I remember when I was reading/listening to a mom talking about getting rid of kids stuff and she “gave me permission” to throw away any books that are scribbled on, torn, or missing pages. It was soooo FREEING to hear her say that.
I'm glad you explained your lack of cooking because this video, I'll have to pass up. Its just not my season, ever for this room to have only 3 pots and pans. My husband is a foodie and this is a marriage deal breaker with lots of cooking needed, I have 3 frying pans going at the same time for most nights of dinner. But all your other videos are super helpful. I do appreciate that you distinguish each persons needs and seasons in life. So Im still following you. You have so much great material.
My red Kitchenaid stand mixer is a work of art to me, so I enjoy seeing it even when I'm not using it.
Love your videos I’ve been going minimalist over a year and still decluttering. The only area I’ve been avoiding is the kitchen! I think it’s time to take your advice and just do it!!!
I love having my plastics and utensils decluttered, it was the first items I worked on when I found your channel and I still marvel at them when I open the drawers and find what I need. I have to work on the food area staying cleaned up ( I don't have a pantry) and downsizing in the number of mixing bowls I have. Love watching all you share!
Connie Soares I only have bowls that can nest
The best.. Am I overvaluing items (in my kitchen)? That statement is GOLD. I applies to all things that need a good sort or de-clutter. Thanks Dawn.
Love nice tidy kitchen and counters keeping them cleaned off and all small appliances have home in cupboard....thank you dawn. For postive inspiration you give me everyday...
Hi Dawn! You did such a great job with this video! So many great tips! I am a empty nester and I know I have way too much Tupperware, pots and pans, plastic bowls and dishes! I will be donating the majority of them soon. I spent a lot of time today loading up the car with my excess Christmas. Trees, ribbons, decorations, wreaths etc....I just love your channel. I am so grateful to have found you. Thank you for all you do for us! xoxo
I use my Vitamix at least once a day. My instapot 3 times a week. Crock pot once a week. KitchenAid stand mixer a few times a week. I don't know how you don't use these things and eat at home! I really want to declutter but I really do use these things so it would be counterproductive to keep everything in the basement. I've just started watching your channel and really enjoy you and your family. Anyone who will move a huge building to see the sunrise/sunset is my kind of people! :)
Those three words, "you have permission", have completely changed my mindset over the last few days. It's early days for my declutter journey. Thank you for kick-starting me and helping me get rid of guilt!
Needed. This. So. Much!! This was my struggle today. I am now ready to declutter my kitchen with renewed enthusiasm! It was so awesome to hear that things you are holding on to are actually costing you and it's ok to give yourself permission to let them go, that really hit home. Thanks for the motivation!!
I’m a midwestern girl too, and I just love when you say “you know how that goes” ☺️. Love your content, keep up the great work!
I've been binge watching your videos for an hour and its soo refreshing. I dont feel crazy, I feel the exact same way, how the house is managed effects my productivity. Thank u!💚
I gave my Vitamix to my neighbour. I wasn't using it and he needed one and it worked out for both of us. I love your videos.
I have reached the 1 year mark of Minimalism and I'm loving it! I have 7 children (ages 17 to 7) and VERY limited cabinet space in my kitchen. I moved in supplied with a very nice pantry (yay!) and 2 cabinets, 2 small drawers and a good amount of space underneath my sink for cooking items that I use- basically only 3/4ths of a wall including stove to work with minus pantry. I moved in with 30 boxes for my kitchen and it was a labor of love to organize it all before de cluttering. I ended up buying a hutch, an island cart, and putting a small collapsible book shelf in for open cabinet space. This year I moved the island out of my way to try out only using two narrow counter spaces. This Thanksgiving I expected to bring back out the island when preparing and cooking/baking the entire meal for 9 people but decided to challenge myself and not bring it out. It worked out perfectly! I had to wash dishes in between a lot but also my kitchen remained perfectly clean during the entire process plus meal.
The kids actually only have 1 plate that is shaped like a wide shallow bowl, shared cups, and one spoon and fork for each of us. Due to the limited plates it takes me no longer than 10-15 minutes to wash all the dishes. I even have been able to turn one of my 2 cabinets into my cooking prep station for can opener, measuring cups and spoons, salt, pepper, oils, and limited glassware for food storage. I know this is lengthy but due to Minimalism I can make this work with only the essentials very organized. I have not missed one thing that I have gotten rid of and it limits me on purchases of things like an air fryer or Instant Pot due to no space and I'm OK with "missing out" and just having a crock pot. I do have an extra crock pot in my attic that I need to use on special occasions/cooking for company. Thank you for your tips! I remember struggling getting rid of mixing bowls but i just did it and haven't missed them.
Inventory ! It’s getting clearer to me !! I hated to do inventory at work! If I think of home as Inventory ( then too I hate it) you’re right I move it all around time as come !!! Let it go !!
Thank you !! Keep telling it!!
I have also been switching to rectangular containers because they work so much better in my fridge.
After some of these vids... I pulled out the set of dishes a coworker handed down to me... AND I bought JUST TWO of each: bowl plates, bowl saucers and cereal size bowls -- THAT I LOVE AND GOT WITH COUPONS TO BED, BATH AND BEYOND!! THEY R SO COOL! I never needed six of everything!! 😉
I decluttered the kitchen and it was good. But now I know I can do more. It’s just the two of us now. Kids are grown and on their own. Now seeing yours, I want to get us down to just what we would use daily ourselves. I can keep a bin with a few extra place settings for the occasional visits that do occur.
But all the fluff stuff can now go.
I even made a cake using only a whisk and spoon and it cane out great!
So thanks for the inspiration! I will deep declutter this time and know that anything I donate I can, like you say, find again or horror for that one time use.
Honestly? The thought has crossed my mind, that I don't need more storage containers than what could fit into my fridge at one time. I think four large and four small? I definitely like the square ones and glass ones. I'm trying to look at my awkward fridge as a blessing. I probably shouldn't be keeping so much in there anyways. I have no idea why they are so big outside and so little shelf space???
Yes! I think you're right on!! ♥️👍
Lol!! AMEN...
Hi Dawn❣️I just have to say I love you 😊I have watched so many of your videos and you have helped me soo much! You are so down to earth, give really good advice and are soo sweet! You have found your path in life, thanks be to God! I am hoping to get my husband on board-he’s a tough cookie😂
I've simplified my kitchen so much in the last couple years. One thing I also learned was what to do when I went away. I make sure to have paper products for when I'm gone and place paper plates, cups, and bowls out on the island for them to use. Saved soooo many arguments because I use to come home to dirty dishes and had the expectation they would do things like me. Now they just throw things away and since we don't do it all the time I feel its a "necessity" for our family when I am gone.
Tracy Signer Same here!! It’s not eco-friendly which bugs me sometimes, but it saves on sanity for our fam of 8, for sure! Sometimes you just gotta survive. ❤️
Lindsay Ashton I have found good deals on amazon for compostable paper plates etc. It has really helped my sanity lol. And I don’t feel as guilty.
@@kellymarieelford8073 awesome! Trying to be eco friendly & mom friendly is a real struggle sometimes.
I have 2 kids and rarely bottle fed them. Given this I still have like 12 baby bottles in my cupboard. Thank you for reminding me that having it sit there is wasting time space and money. Lol. They are out and about to be gifted RN.
I really like the minitature type appliances for those few times you might need something. Of course depends on how much you use them. For example the single serving type blender like a bullet blender, miniature food processer, i might even switch to a smaller crock pot. Cheaper, easier to clean or put in dishwasher, fits on a small shelf. We are a family of 3 so this works for us.
I’m really overwhelmed but I’m gonna start being ruthless with this!
It's a game-changer, really!!!
Go for it! You will be soooo glad you did!
Having the thought of a better life if I move, and the cost of moving a long distance, has made it easier for me to pare down. I just made the decision 3 days ago and have been able to get a considerable amount out of my kitchen. Your idea of one place setting per person inspired me although I admit I've kept two... And I live alone now. I'll also keep more pots and pans but will be cutting down there also. Your's is by far the most inspirational video I've seen and I admit to searching for a few months. Thank you! Oh! I've had my Vitamix for well over 20 years. Do you know you can make ice cream in it? And soups? I put a couple of mouse pads under it to help cut down on the noise. For me, that was the downside. Thanks again! 💫💐
We have also gone to one place setting per person and it’s a game changer! We have extra tall cupboards where we keep the remaining dishes for when we host Thanksgiving. They are high enough that we need to bring in a step stool so it’s easier to wash a dish rather than climb up for another one! 🤣
Very helpful! I’m currently declutter oh my kitchen while watching this because of you! Thank you
Thank you, thank you, thank you! I just took TWO huge storage totes full of things I havnt used in years and don't need (no one needs 27 cups and 42 forks).
It took me less than one afternoon, and my kitchen in now an enjoyable THAT I CAN KEEP CLEAN!
The one plate setting is amazing! I love that idea when kids are at age to clean their stuff!
I agree for the most part, but I was wondering as she talked about it: what does she do when there are guests? She mentioned storing stuff in their basement, so I guess that's the answer. It would be nice to have a basement.
I've always had the attitude that once I've purchased something it no longer has any monetary value so I won't to sell it, but still have trouble letting go.
When I'm in a decluttering mood and thinking about getting rid of bigger ticket items I always reach out to family and friends and have found new homes for appliances, chairs, music systems etc., even paving stones I pulled up from my patio.
I just gave my 40+ year old record collection to my nephew and grandniece and spread much joy. And didn't take any of the albums back even when my nephew made the offer because a lot of the ones from the 60's are collectors items and worth $$$.
A friend once bought a breadmaker, back when they were first on the market and pretty expensive, with two other couples and the passed it around every few months. It stayed a novelty and they used it often while they had it, and then had a little break from it.
Re storage containers. I replaced my plastic ones with glass, then donated most except I kept several plastic ones and glad that I did as I found uses for them in the garage to organize nails, screws, tools, even scoopers for sand and deicing materials in winter and some were used inside the car for various items.
Wow thanks I’m going to tackle cupboards today, I have a large kitchen a and every cupboard is crammed full. When I think about it I have three cupboards of China just for two of us 😱 so something needs to go and don’t get me started on Tupperware 😂 Your video is just the incentive I need to get it sorted thank you x
I agree with you on simplifying the kitchen. I am doing mine but slowly. I have a shoebox size tote I put utensils I’m not sure about getting rid of and so far only pulled one item out for hubby and then put it back cause he said you are right I don’t like using it, guess those items will be donated soon, lol
I am keeping mental note of what I use and when I see an item just sitting, it gets donated. I hope to step my pace up to finish soon, what I have declutter is so much easier to use and nicer to “manage” as you say. Thank you for your wonderful tips and great encouragement to those of us still in the process mode.
Love the idea of the quarantine box because, in times past, I've been too ruthless!
We lived in Hong Kong for 7 years in 700 sq ft spaces so we couldn’t have a lot of stuff. When we moved back to the US and built a house I wanted to keep things minimal in the kitchen. Even still we could do better! I’m ready to do another purge!
I’m moving with my family of 8 right after Christmas, & even though the new place is bigger & the kitchen is 2x the size, I’m decluttering like crazy. Everyone who walks through points out all the things I could put in the kitchen cupboards while I’m over here thinking, “I may actually be able to have empty spaces in my cupboards. Yay!!”
Empty space leaves room for growth.
I do not use plastic to store anything anymore. I have a variety of glass and love it. Your tips are great thanks
Hi Dawn, I got rid of a lot of containers because the mismatched Lids in the various sizes were causing me a lot of stress in trying to find the ones that would match. Since I've done that, one of the things that works for me is having a large roll of foil from Costco that is heavy duty and if I am packing things for people to take home, that foil is very sturdy 4 take away food packages and the roll lasts forever!
Thanhs so much for this video! I have baby twins and never thought I’d have time to to de clutter my kitchen but after watching this video I did! And I donated a bunch of things which felt great. Thanks again
Thank you for the good reminders and strategies. After watching your "Vacation Kitchen" video awhile back, I decluttered my kitchen over two rounds; after this, I'll go back for a third :-). The difference is amazing! My husband commented on the peacefulness, the cleanup is so easy now, and we definitely cook more at home. And because of all the noticeable benefits and cooking more, my husband bought me a new double-door fridge to replace our smaller old one + our older basement one. (I had already decluttered and unplugged it to save $$). Now I have room to make more meals through the week and save leftovers for a weekend off, all while saving money. Best of all, walking into the kitchen is now a delight instead of a drudgery. For anyone considering this, Go For It! :-D
You’re great at decluttering. Thanks for your tips. So many are just amazing. My only difference is that I think the center aisle desperately needs a fruit bowl centerpiece. Especially with kids. Bananas, apples, pears, plums, peaches, etc. That’s what the kids grab after school or for a snack. And a beautiful brass or marble bowl is gorgeous-just match the color and decor of your kitchen.
I love your question, "what will change in the future" this helped me get rid of stuff that I have been holding on to for years and not using
Thank you dawn you give me inspiration everyday... i listen to your video when cleaning and decluttering..
You are appreciated. Thanks again for your beautiful and funny words. Good MOM.
I would LOVE to see a tool 🔧 declutter video for the men in our lives. We have recently moved from a 6 bedroom 4 bath home With a 3 stall garage and an additional storage shed down to a home that's under 1000 sq feet. I've purged about 8 times and I'm about to do a 9th time. So many things !!
I am a maximalist, however once in blue moon, I watch things like this, and your clip helps me to get rid of things right away, donate, gift out and organize and declutter and sort out things, very inspirational. thank you.
I really enjoy all of the comments. One thing I forgot to mention is that I do not minimize dishes. I do not have children at home anymore, so dishes are not a big problem. I love dishes and have several sets. When our grandchildren (of which we have many) come they love to set a pretty table and take delight in choosing which dishes to use! It is a special treat for them, because most families with a lot of children need really practical plates (when our children were young we had one set of the prettiest Corning-ware dishes I could find). So my dishes are part of blessing my family! Have you ever heard that excuse for hanging onto something? :)
They are bringing joy and delight to your family and yourself ... well worth keeping!
If you have the space, what a lovely gift for your grandchildren to enjoy the beauty of settling a pretty table. My father’s mother had beautiful china everyday dishes with a sweet flower pattern, and everyday (real) silverware. I fondly remember using them. I inherited the silverware and my sister inherited the dishes. They speak to me of those precious days in her peaceful household and being surrounded with lovely things being used everyday.
@@marypetty8773 Thank you for sharing your memories and encouraging me, Mary!
Paula Johnson Yes indeed. Your grandkids will have priceless memories.
It's just 2 of us, so dishes aren't the issue, but at the end of the day, it's the plastic containers that are stacked in my sink. I would love to simplify the plastic situation, but haven't figured it out. We both take our lunches to work and we always have leftovers in process. I also clean and prep my veggies each week, so those are in plastic ware. Gotta mull this over to see how I can simplify.
Thank you for putting together this series Dawn. I have one more to watch and then I've watched them all. Gained tips from many different folks.