Forget Bins: A Better (And Prettier) Way To Organize Clutter On Kitchen Countertops

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Kitchen counters can be tricky. They're often where the most clutter can easily accumulate. But they're also where you want clear workspaces and stress-free, aesthetically pleasing order. Being able to cook and clean with ease, find everything you need in a snap, and even love the style of your counters is a priceless feeling, so we're often seeking organization hacks to clear more counter space. One approach, in particular, makes organization so elegant that it will elevate your entire kitchen and look more like a decor choice than a tidiness one: compote bowls.

Compote bowls are footed or pedestaled bowls. They've been used for centuries to serve compotes and hold sweets, but more recently, people have begun to discover their versatility. There's a similar diversity in compote bowls' materials and designs, from ornately adorned porcelain and intricately etched crystal to rustic, minimalist wood.

These vessels are big enough to hold various kitchen essentials, but they look a million times lovelier than other similar solutions like boxes and bins. Not only are the bowls themselves beautifully designed, but their shape and the height from their pedestals keeps their contents out of your direct eye line. These footed bowls are one of the best kitchen staples that double as decor – they're great for sorting chargers and cords; smaller tools like measuring spoons and cookie cutters; teabags, K-cups, or sugar packets for a coffee station; rolled hand towels; candies or snack packs; odds and ends like rubber bands and batteries; and more.

The great thing is, whatever your kitchen aesthetic is, you can find compote bowls to match. This Accent Decor Finale Gold Metal Compote Bowl is ideal for modern kitchens, this Kewool Pedestal Decorative Bowl is a dream for earthy kitchens, and this Accent Decor Scallop Compote fits into a glamorous, vintage-inspired space. You'll likely want several bowls to organize different necessities — you can find entire sets like these Azxtopsez Gold Flower Vases, or mix and match within your style. These are great to thrift for, too — you can find eclectic statement-making compote bowls at secondhand stores, flea markets, and on resale sites for a steal.

Not taking advantage of the fact that countertop organization can double as decor is one of the biggest kitchen organization mistakes you can make. Compote bowls are gamechangers, and the options don't end there. Without leaving the thrift shop or estate sale, you can find plenty of other gorgeous items that stealthily sort your clutter. Need ideas for organizing cooking utensils? Use a thrifted silver Champagne bucket or vase. Metal or mirrored vanity trays are genius for grouping items — in one fell swoop, you can slide over your spices, mugs, soaps, etc., which also makes wiping counters down faster and easier. Vintage canisters are perfect for teas and spices, while baskets of all shapes and sizes can hold just about anything with country charm.