5 Things To Ban From Your Kitchen Forever

From magazines to design websites or even home-oriented shows, everyone dishes out what we should absolutely have in our kitchens. In our effort to achieve the best version of our own cooking corner, we try every single thing and end up with a pile of things we don't need.

To help you streamline your dinnerware and cooking tools, we've listed down some of the things you can discard. Find out what these kitchen outlaws are below: 

1. Clear cookie jars

If you can actually see the goodies, you're more likely to grab one every time you lay your eyes on the jar. Keep binging at bay with cookie and snack jars that are made of ceramic or opaque plastic. Opaque containers lessen visual clutter and provide a uniform look. These jars double as decor, too! 

RL Tip: Choose ceramic containers with airtight seals to keep your snacks fresh longer.

2. Plastic food storage

We all have our ever-growing collection of reusable, microwaveable plastic food containers. Perhaps it's time to trim the number down to clear precious cabinet space. Alternately, switch to tempered glass storage bowls with lockable lids or ceramic casseroles that can go from the oven to the table to the fridge. 

RL Tip: Maximize fridge space with stackable storage containers. You can buy affordable glass containers with lids at Miniso. 

3. A frightening knife block 

Forget that 16-piece knife set that you bought on impulse, because—chances are—you will never use each and every one of them. Stick to three knives (five max)—a chef's knife, a paring knife, and a serrated knife. Drop the knife block, too, and free up even more counter space. Use a magnetic knife rack instead, or, better yet, deposit your knives in the silverware drawer to keep them safely hidden but still at arm's reach. 

RL Tip: Use a drawer organizer to prevent accidents and to keep your utensils properly segregated. 

4. Unused cookbooks

Since most people find recipes online, cookbooks are not necessary in the kitchen anymore. You can transfer these to the living area where they can be much more appreciated as coffee table books. If you're compiling family recipes, save them in digital format to free up physical countertop space. Try this free recipe organizing app, where you don't even have to type up to recipe—just snap a photo. 

RL Tip: If you're working on a new dish, tape the recipe clippings onto the overhead cabinet doors.

5. Idle kitchen gadgets

We usually have an assortment of kitchen gadgets and appliances out on display. Eliminate the clutter by stripping your collection down to what you use frequently. You can also look for substitutes that are slimmer and more compact, like a hand juicer instead of a bulky electric juicer. Forego the grilled cheese sandwich maker and the toaster—you can prepare the same food on a dependable skillet. 

RL Tip: It differs in every household, but consider getting rid of appliances and toold you don't use at least once a week. 

This article ("Kitchen Outlaws") originally appeared in the November 2015 issue of Real Living Magazine. Main photo is by House of Things.