Kitchen Decor Items You Should Remove for a Safer, Cleaner Space

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When Aesthetic Choices Get in the Way

A kitchen should feel safe and comfortable, yet many spaces end up cluttered with items that look appealing but complicate daily routines. Specialists suggest taking a closer look at the décor and removing objects that hinder rather than enhance the room.

Large Woven Baskets

Oversized baskets may seem like a practical storage solution, but in reality they tend to swallow random items — letters, children’s drawings, receipts. This visual noise distracts and eats up valuable counter space. More compact organizers for keys or glasses work far better, while paperwork is best kept outside the kitchen.

Oversized Wall Clocks

Big decorative clocks can create a sense of homeliness but also weigh down the room, making it feel smaller and somewhat dated. A small, minimalist design usually blends more naturally with the overall interior.

Scented Candles

Candles do add a cozy touch, yet placing them near a stove or burners poses a fire hazard. Experts point out that LED candles offer a safer alternative, and real candles should only be used at a safe distance from open heat.

Artificial Plants

Fake greenery doesn’t brighten the room and often appears old-fashioned. Instead, specialists encourage switching to fresh herbs — basil, thyme or parsley can liven up a windowsill and become useful additions when cooking.

Nonfunctional Decorative Pieces

Any object without a purpose gets in the way during meal preparation. To maintain a clean and long-lasting style, it helps to keep only the items that contribute to the workflow. The fewer pointless decorations, the easier it is to navigate the space.

Towels Near the Stove

Colorful textiles may look charming, but hanging them close to gas burners can be dangerous. Storing towels in cabinets or drawers, away from heat sources, reduces the risk of accidental ignition.

Open Spices and Oils

Spices and cooking oils lose their flavor quickly when exposed to air and light. For longer shelf life, they should be kept in tightly sealed glass containers protected from direct sunlight.

A tidy, thoughtfully arranged kitchen isn’t just more attractive — it’s safer and more efficient. Removing unnecessary décor and choosing practical alternatives helps the space feel calmer, cleaner and better suited for cooking.