Sometimes kitchen counters become a catch-all for mail, school papers, cleaning supplies and other items that family members neglect to put away. When you deem it is time get rid of the clutter and take back the counter, consider the following. Here are some tips from organizational expert Linda Koopersmith for clean, organized counter tops:
1. Keep appliances and knickknacks on the countertop to a minimum. Only items with high-frequency use should remain stored on the counter. All others should be housed in lower cabinets or in the pantry.

2. If you use your kitchen as your “home office,” choose a lower cabinet that is wide enough to accommodate one or two file crates side-by-side to get papers off the counter. (This means that there will not be as much room for kitchen storage, however.) Place file crates in cupboards, and organize paperwork with designated dividers.

3. Cleaning supplies with busy packaging can create a sense of clutter, regardless of what else is on the counters. Pour dish soap into a label-free soap caddy and place all other containers under the sink.

4. Make a place for necessary sink items like sponges and scrub brushes. Using the sink divider mats or suction cup sponge caddies wet dishwashing tools will allow these items to dry, while getting them out of the way and off of counters.

5. When choosing a dish drainer, choose one that is multi-functional, space saving, and adds to your kitchen’s overall style statement. Steel or bright glossy colored items reinforce the look you want with out taking away from the look or function of the space.

6. Find room in the pantry or cupboard for open containers of food, canisters, and bread. Transfer contents of opened boxes or bags to clear, airtight canisters. The containers will keep the food fresh longer. Looking through clear containers is the best way to see when it is time to make a trip to the grocery store.

7. Counter tops will stay clear as long as everything inside drawers and behind cabinets doors are organized as well.