1. PLASTIC DRAWER DIVIDERS
When attempting to fully organize a kitchen it can be tempting to bulk-buy loads of plastic drawer dividers in the hope of sorting your hidden stuff, but professional organizers urge their clients against this.
2. PANTRY SHELF INSERTS
'I come across pantry shelf inserts in every home I organize, but I always end up removing them,' says Sara. You might think that this product will enhance your space and allow you to maximize storage, but it could have an adverse effect. 'They usually don't fit well inside cabinets, leaving awkward spaces that are difficult to fill,' she adds. 'When they do expand, they create an awkward dip where items tip and fall, and it's rare to find items that fit underneath.'
3. VACUUM SEAL BAGS
If you store a lot of infrequently used table linens in your kitchen, you might have thought that vacuum seal bags are your best solution, but they're one of those gadgets you might want to reconsider. 'I have yet to find a vacuum seal bag that doesn't fill with air over time,' says Sara. 'My alternative is to use a simple zipper bag or storage bins for larger items.'
4. CUSTOM BUILT ORGANIZERS
Anything custom-built will undoubtedly be good quality and look gorgeous, but our organizers advise against it. 'Custom-built drawer inserts, while beautiful, can be costly and limiting,' says Lisa Ruff from The Neat Method.
5. CHEAP AND POOR QUALITY ORGANIZERS
The saying 'buy cheap, buy twice' may be a cliche but, in organization, quality over quantity rings true. 'Kitchens are high-traffic areas of a home, and the organizers used within should be able to withstand daily use,' says Lisa.