Surprisingly satisfying. Mildly addictive.
I love nothing more than taking everything out of my cupboards and putting it all back again. This often earns me raised eyebrows from my family, but I stand by it — it makes everything feel better.
Over the year (and especially toward the end), cupboards quietly go rogue. Things stop living with their like. Chipped glasses get pushed to the back just in case. Lids lose their pots. Pots lose their lids. Suddenly you’re digging for the one mug you actually like.
There comes a moment when ignoring the muddle stops working.
That moment is now.
So, roll up your sleeves. Take it all out. Reset.
Put the mugs you love within easy reach. The plates you use every day right where your hand naturally goes. Keep candle holders and tea-lights a small step away — close enough to use, not so far they’re forgotten.
A few simple rules we swear by:
1. Edit first, then add. Clearing makes room for better choices.
2. If it’s annoying, replace it. Life is too short for fiddly tools.
3. If you have to dig for it, you won’t use it. Put the good things where your hand goes first.
4. If you’re borrowing from another category, you need the real thing. (Snack bowls, cheese knives, water glasses…)
5. If there’s something you keep meaning to buy, fill the gap.
Take stock of what you already have. You chose it once, so it meant something — use it properly, with care. Let go of what you’re keeping out of guilt (someone else will be delighted). Add only what genuinely makes life easier or nicer.
Reset done. Cupboards calm.
Satisfaction - supreme.
And while you’re at it…dare we suggest the mantel?
