7 Things That Don't Belong in Your Kitchen, Designers Say

If you tally up the hours you spend in each room, then the kitchen is probably right behind the bedroom. Grabbing a cup of coffee in a calm, clutter-free kitchen can set the tone for a productive day, and cooking in the evening will make you feel grateful for a cozy, organized home.

However, if your kitchen is full of relics from past cooking adventures, décor that never felt quite right, or other dust-collecting items, then you're probably not enjoying this space as much as you could.

Fortunately, it's easy to decide what stays and what goes. From outdated items to useless clutter, we spoke to designers about the seven things that don't belong in your kitchen.

Appliance Clutter

There are many appliances that sound like a good idea in theory. You needed that egg cooker, you couldn't live without an ice cream machine—and how would you start your mornings without an iced coffee maker? However, in reality, most people will barely use these appliances.

"The juicer, the soda maker, and the panini maker are just collecting dust," says Red Barrinuevo, founder of Red Barrinuevo Home.

Instead, purchase multi-use appliances that you'll use all week. "Look for an air fryer that can double as a toaster, grill, or oven—or a steamer that can also be used as a rice cooker," he says.

Cheap Storage Containers

"The goal in a kitchen is to maintain a streamlined, organized space that balances practicality with a polished look," says Ashley Gallion, owner and founder of Ashley Ayer Interiors.

That means getting rid of all of the cheap storage containers from takeout nights and trading them in for higher-quality, glass food storage. It doesn't need to be expensive—if it matches, it will immediately elevate your kitchen and your leftovers.

Excessive Décor

We've all seen an overly decorated kitchen. Maybe it's one that went too far into a theme, or it started with one charming artwork, but ended up with 10—and they're all collecting dust (and grease).

"The kitchen is already busy as it is, so don't eat up valuable counter space with fake plants, décor signs, and too many canisters," says Barrinuevo.

Hanging Pot Racks

Pot racks hanging over an island have a casual, French countryside look, but that doesn't mean they're practical. In some kitchens, they look great and can showcase a pretty collection, but they have drawbacks. "[They] collect dust, make the ceiling look lower, and block sight lines," says Barrinuevo.

He suggests looking for closed storage instead. Focus on creating a calming, clean design without busy visual interruptions.

Decorative Wine Racks

Decorative wine racks had a moment. They were a clever way to use up space above cabinetry or to display a wine collection on a countertop. However, they quickly turn into dust collectors—especially if you aren't regularly breaking open wine with dinner.

Instead, look for a more practical solution—Barrinuevo recommends a wine fridge that can be incorporated into a lower cabinet or slotted under an island.

LED Light Strips

Barrinuevo suggests getting rid of any LED light strips lurking under upper cabinets. While the extra lighting is nice, the execution just doesn't cut it.

"The icy, cool tone makes it look so dated and cheap," he says. If you want to keep them, look for LEDs with a soft white setting for a more welcoming, warm look.

Worn-Out Cookware

Worn-out cookware can pose a health risk and make your kitchen feel tired. "[It] creates visual chaos and interferes with the kitchen’s purpose," says Gallion.

While it may not make sense to replace all of your cookware at once, focus on investing in a piece or two at a time. Look for high-quality enamel, as well as stainless-steel pots and pans. Not only will these make your cooking experience more enjoyable, but they'll also look more stylish when left out on a range.