Kitchen Challenge 1: The Junk Drawer Reboot

Your junk drawer deserves better

Junk drawers hold more than clutter. They hold decisions you postponed, mystery items you might need someday, and bits of daily life with nowhere to land. Today, we’re giving this drawer a real job—and a fresh start.

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1. Dump & discover

Dump everything out—yes, all of it. Next, scan for repeating categories.

Feeling overwhelmed? Just tackle the top layer today—you’re still ahead!

Common clusters:

• Pens & markers (test and toss the dried-out ones)

• Batteries (keep only the charged)

• Mystery hardware (match or ditch)

• Paper bits (receipts, take-out menus)

• Other: ___________________________

Ask yourself: “What’s this drawer’s real job?”

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2. Assign the jobs

Give each category a clear, simple home. No fancy storage needed—a mug or small box works great!

Examples:

• Writing Things → tray or cup

• Power Stuff → small box or zip bag

• Notes & Scraps → envelope or clip

• Fix-It Bits → divider

• Not Sure Yet → open spot

Write yours:
A. ___________________________________ 

B. ___________________________________ 

C. ___________________________________ 

D. ___________________________________ 

E. ___________________________________ 

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3. The great sort

☐ Bin the trash
☐ Rehome items that belong elsewhere
☐ Group similar items
☐ Test pens, batteries, cords
☐ Wipe the drawer clean

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4. Build & label

Use small boxes, trays, or jars so each role has a clear home. Add simple labels if future-you appreciates the nudge.

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5. Keep it up

☐ Monthly glance
☐ Drawer-liner refresh
☐ Label tidy-up
☐ Phone reminder

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Tiny Wins (Only have 5 minutes?)

• Say goodbye to 3 things you haven’t touched this year

• Rehome one item that clearly doesn’t belong

• Gather similar bits into one pile for later

Small wins still count.

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“You’re not just decluttering—you’re making your space clear and useful. Now your drawer says, ‘I’m helpful.’

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