Entertaining Reset - Be Prepared
Cabinet Reset Day: My Simple Trick for Cleaner Shelves + Easier Entertaining
The Annual Dish Reset (and why it works)
Once a year, I do something that sounds a little extra—but honestly, it’s one of the easiest ways I know to reset my kitchen.
I take all the dishes that live up on shelves or tucked in the back of cabinets—the “pretty” pieces, the seasonal serving bowls, the teacups I love but don’t always reach for—and I run them through the dishwasher.
Not because they’re dirty… but because this one simple reset helps me declutter without overwhelm.
Step 1: Pull everything out (yes, everything)
I start by clearing one cabinet or one section at a time. I stack things carefully on a towel on the counter or kitchen table. Seeing everything out in the open is the key—when it’s hidden, it’s easy to keep too much.
Step 2: Wash + wipe
I load the dishwasher with as much as makes sense. When the cycle is done, I do a quick rinse if needed and wipe pieces dry before putting them away. It’s fast, it feels satisfying, and it gives everything a “fresh start.”
Step 3: Decide what stays (with a simple system)
While things are out, I sort into four easy categories:
- Everyday Use: things I truly reach for
- Entertaining / Seasonal: pieces I love for gatherings or holidays
- Sentimental / Display Only: meaningful items that deserve a small, protected spot
- Release: items I don’t use, don’t love, or don’t want to store anymore
Here’s the honest question that helps me decide quickly:
If I saw this at a store today… would I buy it again?
If the answer is no, it’s usually a sign it’s ready to go.
Step 4: Put the “good stuff” where you can actually use it
This is a big one: once everything is clean, I put my favorites at eye level. If your prettiest pieces are buried, you won’t use them—then they become clutter instead of joy.
I also group items by purpose: platters with platters, tea cups with tea cups, dessert plates together, etc. That way when a social moment pops up, I can grab what I need without digging.
Why I love this reset (especially during declutter month)
This little tradition does three things at once:
- It cleans what’s been sitting (dust is real!)
- It helps me see what I actually use
- It makes entertaining easier because everything is ready to go
And the best part? You don’t need to buy anything. You’re just curating what you already own.
Try it this week (quick version)
If you want to try it without making a whole day of it:
- Pick one cabinet
- Pull it all out
- Wash what fits
- Donate just 3 things you don’t love anymore
Progress Counts! Do you save your “good dishes” for special occasions—or would you love to start using them more often? Think about hosting some smaller easy events and now you are ready to set the table.
That's it for today, until next time! Jonelle'
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