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There's always room to improve the way we organize our kitchens. Just when we think we've found the best method for arranging our spices, we see a TikTok video that changes the game. Just when we think we've found the all-time-best prep bowls for mis en place, one of our editors swoops in with a new favorite set. With the humbling idea that our kitchen organization learnings are never complete, here are the tools we found most valuable for keeping our cooking streamlined, our fridges immaculate, and our pantries pest-free in 2022. Hopefully, these tools will help any readers who are looking to revamp their kitchens this new year. Check back at the end of 2023 when we've learned even more. Click here to read about the best cleaning products of the year too.
Fridge organization
Very recently, we interviewed a TikTok expert for her top tips on fridge organization. She alerted us to the existence of these stackable fridge bins that allow you to make use of more vertical storage space in your refrigerator. Some of them have drawers for added convenience.
Our digital director uses a white board to keep track of the ingredients in her fridge, track the items she needs from the grocery store, and even to create a prep plan for her dinner party dishes. Read more about using this organization system.
Pots and pans
We were huge proponents of both pot racks and pegboard walls for organizing our cookware. But this year, when writer Emily Farris interviewed pastry chef Caroline Schiff about how she organizes her tiny Brooklyn kitchen, she got inspired to install a pot rail. Read why it's a great method for keeping your pots and pans at the ready—and making your kitchen look stylish. Don't forget the S-hooks!
We admit that this may feel superfluous—it seemed like an unnecessary tool to us too until we tried it. Read why having a place to keep your pot lid while you're cooking is absolutely a great idea.
Snack and condiment storage
Yes, you likely already know about fruit baskets. But you should read why contributor Rebecca Firkser uses hers to store snacks instead of produce.
It's a classic for a reason. Don't limit yourself to lazy Susans in the pantry. Put a pretty one on your table for easy entrée passing, and put one in your fridge to make your condiments accessible.
Tools for better kitchen prep
Contributor Genevieve Yam uses this tiny stainless steel cups to make dinner prep easier. They're also nice for serving condiments.
Keeping a bowl on hand while you're prepping vegetables comes in handy: You can collect scraps like carrot skins and lemon peels, keeping your mess contained. This year, we found a scrap bowl that attaches to the side of your cabinet, meaning you can sweep detritus right off the counter and into the bowl. Simply empty its contents into your trash or compost bin when you're done cooking.
Tool storage
Read about this inexpensive way to give your kitchen more drawers; it's the perfect place to store all of those weird tools you don't know what to do with, like jar lids, koozies, and reusable straws.
Pantry organization
No item was more popular with our readers in 2022 than our favorite pantry storage containers for dry ingredients. Read our full review of the ones that will keep your flour, rice, and other pantry staples safe from the elements—and from pests.
