If it feels as if you’re constantly cleaning your kitchen, that's because you probably are. Even if you prioritize organization and enjoy a tidy space, well-loved kitchens usually require a level of wiping, sweeping, and scrubbing that can be daunting to even the most fastidious neatnicks among us. But what if it's not just the perpetual cycle of cooking, eating, dishwashing, and general life chaos that is to blame—what if your design choices are sabotaging your clean kitchen?
There’s often a tension between functionality and aesthetics when designing or decorating such a hard-working space. You may have found your dream counter stools to place at your island, but then you're doomed to spend more time vacuuming off crumbs than you expected. Or maybe you finally invested in that marble countertop you’ve dreamed of, only to find yourself scrubbing it down frequently to get rid of stains and markings.
“A kitchen is first and foremost a space for cooking and entertaining, so when considering certain materials, it’s important to weigh both use factors and practicality with aesthetics,” says Alex Bass, founder and CEO of Art Advisory and interior design studio Salon 21.
Fortunately, there are a range of options that are as durable as they are beautiful that have exploded in recent years. “There are so many amazing brands and companies now that make the most aesthetically pleasing tiles, hardware, and even appliances. So you really don’t have to compromise on style as long as you know all your options,” Bass says.
From shelves that are too high to poor traffic flow in your kitchen, here are eight design mistakes that might be making it harder to keep your kitchen clean.
Mistake 1: High-Maintenance Countertops
Sure, real stone countertops are a gorgeous addition to your kitchen, but they require constant vigilance. Maintaining them requires very particular cleaning products and techniques, and even if you're careful, they will probably stain over time. “It is also extremely expensive–you can buy something like quartzite instead to achieve a similar look,” Bass says. As you design your kitchen
Mistake 2: Cabinets With Gaps
Floating cabinets that aren’t attached to the ground or ceiling can trap dust and other mysterious substances. This design choice “invites crumbs and build-up,” Bass explains.
You would also be wise to choose a flat-front cabinet, rather than one with intricate grooves or raised panels. “They’re much easier to clean, minimizing dust and grime buildup,” says Abby Pendergrast, an interior stylist and set designer. “And don’t forget a semi-gloss paint finish to make them even more durable and easy to wipe down!”
Mistake 3: Upholstered Bar Stools
Upholstered stools are cozy, but they’re also more prone to absorbing spills and stains than other finishes. “Opt for materials like leather or other easy-to-wipe surfaces for a busy kitchen environment,” Pendergrast says. “If you’re set on fabric, consider moisture and stain-resistant options like Crypton or Sunbrella for a more practical solution.”
Mistake 4: Poor Traffic Flow
If you’re undergoing a full-blown renovation of your kitchen, one of the most important factors to consider is the layout of your space. “If your sink or trash is placed too far from prep areas, it can lead to more messes and spills as you move around the kitchen,” Pendergrast says. “The farther you have to carry food waste, the more likely you are to drip or drop things along the way.” When designing your kitchen, Pendergrast suggests putting in a built-in trash drawer near the sink for seamless clean-up.
Mistake 5: Open Shelving
Exposed shelving is a great way to display your stylish kitchenware and dinner plates for all to admire, but it is also an invitation to dust, Bass says. “I would reserve this for a sleek bar area but not for an actual kitchen. Also, don’t put items up there that you need daily, as they can gather dust or be hard to keep clean.”
Pendergast is on the same page. “While open shelving can look stunning on a Pinterest board, it often adds visual clutter in real life. Items can quickly collect dust and grease from cooking, and dishes may not stay as neatly organized as you’d hope,” she says. “I recommend avoiding this trend for a more practical, low-maintenance kitchen.”
Mistake 6: Mismatched or Fragile Materials
Countertops and backsplashes are prone to messes, and when they’re made from delicate or porous materials, like light-colored grout, they may stain easily and require constant cleaning. “Lighter grout can show dirt and grime more quickly over time. Choosing durable, low-maintenance options like quartz will save you hassle in the long run,” Pendergrast says.
Mistake 7: Too Many Countertop Appliances
It may seem that you need a separate appliance to brew your coffee, blend your daily smoothie, and air-fry the meal of your dreams, but all those gadgets can clutter your counter and make it harder to keep everything clean. Instead of leaving them all out on your exposed shelves or countertops, opt for built-in appliance garages. “This makes it easier to regularly clean surfaces without constantly moving things around,” says Pendergast.
