A Clean Kitchen in Just 15 Minutes!

SERIES "2"

Purge the other stuff. Kitchens are not for toys. Or computers. Or mail. If clutter has taken over, establish a new rule: Remove your stuff from the kitchen, or it gets confiscated (what bribes you require to give it back is up to you).

Clear the counters. Quick and no-mess cooking requires ample counter space. Don't start until you have enough to organize your ingredients, bowls, and tools near your stovetop.

Make tools handy. The typical cook uses 20 percent of their kitchen tools for about 80 percent of meal preparation. Arrange your kitchen so that your most-used gear is within reach. A deep canister or jar, kept near work areas, is great for storing utensils like spatulas and mixing spoons.

Keep ingredients close. Store cooking oils, spices, and other essentials nearby, so that you never have to run to a pantry for something you regularly use. Having storage space near your stove for these items cuts cooking time and enables you to put things away immediately after use.

Prepare for instant cleaning. Is a kitchen towel at an arm's length, or, better yet, tucked into your waist or flung over your shoulder? Is a clean sponge standing by for quick wipe ups? Just as important as having easy access to ingredients is the ability to clean up messes as you cook.