They say the kitchen is the heart of a home, but it can also be the headache of the home if it’s not organized and maintained. Right? That said, I've learned a few things over the years, and I'm pretty sure the key to mastering kitchen organization is finding a system that makes sense to you! At a loss? Try kitchen “zones.” Read on to learn more!

Zone 1: Everyday Items These are the things you use multiple times a day like plates, bowls, cups, flatware, and serving ware. Store these pieces close to where you will use them—for example, glasses near the refrigerator and flatware near the dining area.

Zone 2: Cooking + Baking items Store pots, pans, measuring cups, cutting boards, and mixing bowls near the stove and oven. Baking sheets and muffin tins can fit vertically near your oven’s thin cabinet. Zone 3: Coffee + Bar Items Zone 3 is my fave! This zone houses essentials for your morning coffee and evening wine. Keep items set apart and easily accessible by designating a particular kitchen cabinet or section of the pantry.

Zone 4: Pantry + Storage Items Zip-close bags, Tupperware, aluminum foil, and plastic wrap should be stored together for easy post-meal clean-up. Keep dry goods, spices, and small kitchen appliances in your pantry, and consider clear containers to keep a handle on when your dry goods are running low.

One more encouragement about kitchen organization: If at first, you don’t succeed, try, try, again! You’ll eventually find a system that works for you!