Mornings can be a whirlwind, especially when you’re trying to prepare breakfast and get out the door on time. I used to feel like I was constantly battling the clock, opening and closing cabinet doors, searching for plates, mugs, or that elusive spice jar. It might not seem like much, but every second counts. That’s when I decided to switch to open kitchen cabinets—a design choice that surprisingly saved me three precious minutes every morning.
My Morning Routine Before Open Cabinets
Before I made the switch, my morning routine was a bit chaotic. I’d spend time:
- Opening multiple cabinets to find my favorite coffee mug.
- Digging through stacks of plates to grab the one I needed.
- Searching for ingredients hidden behind closed doors.
- Sorting through cluttered drawers to find utensils.
All of this added up to unnecessary time and stress, especially when I was already running late. It wasn’t just about the physical time spent but also the mental effort it took to search and decide.
The Decision to Switch to Open Cabinets
I wanted a kitchen setup that would streamline my mornings. Open cabinets seemed like the perfect solution. Not only would they add a modern touch to my kitchen, but they would also allow me to see and grab items instantly.
I started by removing the doors from a few upper cabinets and organizing the shelves with my most-used items. I kept things simple and functional to ensure everything was easy to access. To keep the look clean, I chose a neutral color palette for my dishes and used matching containers for ingredients.
How I Saved 3 Minutes Every Morning
Here’s how open cabinets shaved off those crucial three minutes:
- Quick Access to Dishes: I placed my everyday plates and bowls on the lower shelves, neatly stacked and within easy reach. Now, I can grab a plate in seconds without sorting through a pile of dishes or opening multiple doors.
- Efficient Coffee Station: My coffee mugs are now displayed on an open shelf right above the coffee machine. Previously, I wasted time opening doors and searching. Now, I simply reach out and grab the mug while the machine is heating.
- Visible Ingredients: I use clear glass jars for my frequently used breakfast ingredients like oats, chia seeds, and tea bags. Each jar is labeled, so I don’t waste time deciding what to eat. Everything is at eye level, making choices quicker.
- Organized Utensils: I placed a stylish jar on an open shelf to store my go-to utensils. No more rummaging through drawers to find a spoon or spatula. It’s right there, easy to see and grab.
- Pre-Arranged Items: I prepare the night before by arranging my breakfast items on the open shelf. This simple step saves those precious morning seconds when every moment counts.
- Routine Pathway: I arranged my shelves in the order of my morning tasks—mugs near the coffee machine, plates next to the toaster, and ingredients grouped by type. This sequence allows me to move through my routine seamlessly.
These small adjustments may seem minor, but together they make a noticeable difference. Having everything visible and within reach means I move through my morning tasks more quickly and smoothly.
Why Every Minute Matters
Saving three minutes may not seem like a huge win, but in the morning rush, those minutes are golden. They give me time to enjoy my coffee, sit for a moment, or simply avoid feeling rushed. It’s also about reducing daily stress and creating a more mindful morning experience. Starting the day without unnecessary frustration sets a positive tone for the hours ahead.
Tips for Maximizing Open Cabinet Efficiency
If you’re considering open cabinets to save time, here are a few strategies that worked for me:
- Prioritize Daily Essentials: Keep the items you use every day within easy reach. Think plates, mugs, and utensils.
- Use Clear Storage: Store ingredients in transparent containers so you can see what’s inside at a glance.
- Maintain Organization: Take a minute each week to tidy up and ensure everything is in its place.
- Display Smartly: Avoid overcrowding shelves. Display items that are both functional and visually appealing.
- Rotate Seasonally: Store seasonal items elsewhere to keep your open shelves efficient and clutter-free.
- Prep the Night Before: Arrange your breakfast essentials on the shelf before going to bed for an even quicker morning routine.
Bottom Line
Switching to open kitchen cabinets transformed my mornings. What seemed like a simple design change turned into a time-saving solution that adds ease and joy to my daily routine. If you’re looking to save time and reduce stress, consider giving open cabinets a try. You might be surprised at how much difference a few minutes can make in your day.
Have you tried open kitchen cabinets? I’d love to hear how they’ve changed your routine!
