7 things to never put on your kitchen countertops, according to interior designers who've made the mistakes so you don't have to

A truly beautiful kitchen is more than just appliances and surfaces – it’s a living, functional space. Yet all too often, kitchen countertops become cluttered with items that make the room feel cramped, chaotic, and harder to use.

Interior designers agree: one of the keys to organizing a kitchen and decluttering a kitchen is knowing the things you should never put on kitchen countertops. Being selective about what remains on display not only keeps your space tidy but also ensures it’s a kitchen you’ll love to cook, entertain, and live in every day.

7 things to avoid placing on a kitchen countertop

Here are the things designers say you should remove from your kitchen counters right away, along with smarter places to store them.

1. Knife blocks

A knife block may seem like a kitchen essential, but designers say it’s often one of the first items to go. Bulky and space-hogging, it can also harbor dust, bacteria, and even mold, especially if knives are stored damp. Instead, experts recommend an in-drawer knife organizer or a wall-mounted magnetic strip, which keep knives clean, sharp, and neatly out of sight.

This magnetic knife strip, available on Amazon, is a personal favorite of mine, and looks good enough to display.

2. Unattractive soap bottles

Every kitchen needs soap, but ordinary plastic bottles can undermine a carefully styled space. Instead of leaving generic containers on display, elevate your sink area by decanting hand and dish soap into elegant dispensers. For a coordinated look, select a set that complements your kitchen’s design, or achieve a seamless finish with a deck-mounted pump integrated directly into the countertop.

The Amada Sandstone Bath Collection, available on McGee & Co., takes pride of place in my kitchen and bathroom.

3. Paper towels and holders

Paper towels are a kitchen essential, but they don’t need to dominate your countertop. Free-standing holders take up valuable space and can appear untidy. A clever solution is an under-cabinet or door-mounted holder, keeping the roll within easy reach while completely off the counter. For a more sustainable and stylish option, consider swapping in reusable dishcloths.

If a kitchen towel holder must stay on your countertop, choose one that’s as stylish as it is functional. The Wooden Paper Towel Holder in Brown from Joanna Gaines’ Target collection is elegant enough to leave proudly on display.

4. Too many small appliances

Your counters can quickly become an appliance parking lot for toasters, blenders, food processors, and more. A good rule of thumb is to limit countertop appliances to one or two that you use every day, like a coffee maker. For less-frequently used gadgets, store them in a cupboard, pantry, or appliance garage. This keeps your surfaces free for meal prep and makes the kitchen feel more expansive.

'Placing too many appliances, such as toaster ovens, food processors, and bread warmers, on your kitchen countertops can easily create clutter and take up unnecessary space,' says Andrew Franz, founder of Andrew Franz Architects. 'Whenever possible, limit your countertop appliances to just one beautiful statement piece.'

When wall space is limited, an appliance garage offers the perfect solution. My coffee maker, milk frother, and electric whisk are all cleverly stored – and neatly concealed – inside the Bamboo Double Layer Bread Box, available on Amazon. Stylish yet practical, it’s a beautiful way to keep countertops clear.

5. Paperwork, mail and car keys

Kitchen counters often become a magnet for incoming mail, unpaid bills, and miscellaneous clutter. This kind of “drop zone” chaos can make the space feel instantly disorganized and stressful. To combat it, create a designated drop-off area outside the kitchen, such as a small entryway table or a drawer in your mudroom.

'If items don’t have a home, they will always end up on your countertops,' explains Chiana Dickson, Homes & Gardens' Solved organizing expert. 'Even a single drawer or a stylish bin in the kitchen can make a huge difference, keeping papers neatly tucked away and surfaces clear for cooking and entertaining.'

By establishing a specific place for everyday clutter, you not only protect your countertops but also create a calmer, more functional kitchen that you’ll actually enjoy using.

6. Large, non-essential decor

While some decor can add a personal touch, oversized or purely decorative items like large vases, bowls, or statues can make a kitchen feel overstuffed and reduce its functionality. Every item on a kitchen counter should earn its place. A small bowl of fresh fruit or a single plant is often all the decoration you need to bring life to the space without sacrificing valuable work area.

7. Expired or unused food items

Finally, your countertops are not a long-term storage solution. Avoid leaving out items that are not actively being used for cooking, such as half-empty spice jars, old cooking oils, or produce that you haven't touched in days. A cluttered counter often signals a disorganized kitchen, and keeping surfaces clear is the first step toward a more efficient and enjoyable cooking experience.

A kitchen countertop is more than just a surface – it's the heart of your workspace, a place for chopping, mixing, and gathering. By simply removing the items that don't belong, you can transform your kitchen from a cluttered catch-all into a functional, beautiful space you'll love spending time in.

Ultimately, the goal is not to have a sterile, empty kitchen, but one where every item has a purpose. Whether it's a stylish appliance you use daily or a small piece of decor that brings you joy, the best kitchens are those that feel considered and intentional, not simply a dumping ground for whatever comes in the door. A clean countertop is the first and most important step to a more organized and enjoyable home.