A Cozy Lifestyle with Clearissa Coward
How to Keep Your Kitchen Clean and Organized During the Summer
Even With Kids Home and Guests Coming Over
Let’s be honest, summer can turn your kitchen into a revolving door of snack seekers, mess makers, and spontaneous visitors. With the kids home from school and family dropping by for lemonade or cookouts, it’s easy for dishes to pile up, counters to disappear under clutter, and floors to stay sticky. How to Keep Your Kitchen Clean and Organized During the Summer.
But don’t worry — you don’t have to choose between enjoying the season and keeping your kitchen in order. With a few smart systems and realistic habits, you can stay on top of the mess without spending your entire summer cleaning.
Here’s how to keep your kitchen clean and organized when your home is full and your schedule is fuller.
- Create a Kid-Friendly Snack Station
Designate a lower cabinet, basket, and/or fridge drawer for kid-approved snacks and drinks. Stock it with healthy, pre-portioned items they can grab without help — and teach them to clean up after themselves (even if it takes a few reminders!).
Bonus: Fewer “Mom, I’m hungry!” interruptions. You’ll like that.
- Use the “10-Minute Reset” Rule
Set aside 10 minutes, three times a day, for a quick clean-up with the family. Everyone pitches in to clear the table, load the dishwasher, and wipe down counters. Keeping messes from building up makes a huge difference — and gets everyone in the habit of helping.
- Make Summer Zones for Guests and Family
- Drop Zone: Keep baskets by the entry for sunglasses, keys, and mail to prevent clutter from spreading to the kitchen. And of course, a basket for all those flip flops and sandals as well.
- Drink Station: Set up a tray or cart with cups, a pitcher of infused water, or juice boxes. Visitors and kids can help themselves without rummaging through cabinets or opening the fridge a dozen times a day.
- Simplify the Dishes
Designate color-coded dishes or cups for each child — or use reusable name tags. This cuts down on the “new cup every time” syndrome that leads to a mountain of dishes.
Keep a sink of warm, soapy water ready during high-traffic times so dishes can soak right away.
- Weekly Fridge and Pantry Refresh
Pick one day a week to toss expired items, wipe spills, and restock snacks. Kids can help by wiping shelves or organizing items by category.
A clean fridge makes healthy eating easier — and keeps summer produce from getting lost or wasted.
- Embrace the “Good Enough” Mindset
Your kitchen doesn’t have to be spotless, just functional and peaceful. Focus on what really matters — clean surfaces, food safety, and keeping your space welcoming. Let go of perfection and embrace a home that’s lived in and loved.
- Keep a “Company-Ready” Basket Handy
Stash a basket nearby for those moments when someone calls and says, “We’re five minutes away!” Toss random items into it (mail, toys, clutter), stash it in a closet, and give the counters a quick wipe. Light a candle or set out lemon slices for a fresh scent — and you are guest-ready!
Conclusion
Summer is full of joy, chaos, and connection — especially in the kitchen. With a little planning and a few kid-friendly routines, you can enjoy your home without feeling overwhelmed by the mess. A clean and organized kitchen isn’t about being perfect — it’s about creating a space where memories can be made.
What are your best summer kitchen survival tips? I’d love to hear them in the comments!
Hugs & Blessings,
