Countertop Curfew™
A simple way to decide what deserves a permanent spot
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What is the Countertop Curfew™?
The Countertop Curfew is simple: if you're not actively using an item at least 3 or 4 times a week, you should remove it from your countertop.
Think of it like a curfew for your appliances and gadgets. Set an alarm for 3 or 4 days from now. When it goes off, the curfew is officially in effect: if you haven't used an item since setting it, it's probably not something you'll miss if you store it or let it go.
It's not about having an empty counter. It's about making sure everything on your counter is there because you actually use it, not because it ended up there one day and never left.
Three Items I Always Suggest Removing From Counters
Knife Blocks
These are bulky, and on average, most people only use a few knives (a chef's knife, a bread knife, and a paring knife). You can keep those in a drawer with a compact knife block. I love the cork ones. Check out my favorite here.
Oils & Spices
Keeping these by the stove, especially in a warm, sunny climate, can cause them to degrade faster. They should live in cool, dark spaces like cabinets and pantries. Salt and pepper are an exception.
Papers & Mail
I recommend using a decorative basket to create a "drop zone" for mail. Set aside a few minutes a day to sort it — keep and file what's important, shred or discard the rest.
Countertop Curfew Quiz
Answer a few quick questions to see if something's earned its spot.
How often do you actually use this?
If you put it away, would getting it out again be a hassle?
Is there something else in your kitchen that already does this?
If you stored this item somewhere else, would you miss having it out?
Ready to give your counters a curfew?
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