April 18, 2016
Simplify Mealtime : Put Together a Cutlery Caddy
I pulled out this cutlery caddy from the top of the pantry the other day, cleaned it out, and set it back up for use on the kitchen table again. You see, we used to have it on the table a couple years ago but our youngest starting getting mobile and climbing and everything was game. That meant he pulled everything out and it was a new target for him. At the time, I was annoyed that this darling little caddy that made my life easier had to be stashed away (along with so many other things), but as I pulled it out the other night I was thinking about how quickly they grow up and time flies. So here’s my second attempt at the cutlery caddy – so far, so good!
Why this works:
If your meal time is anything like it is in our house, the minute we’re all finally sitting down, someone drops a spoon or a fork, needs a napkin, etc. Having a simple cutlery caddy simply makes it easier – the kids can set the table from the caddy or help themselves when needed. Another perk? It’s ready to take out to the picnic table for impromptu meals on the patio. Truly, I love it.
Gather your supplies:
- caddy – look for something that you love, that matches your decor. This one is from Crate & Barrel but I’m not seeing it online. Here’s a darling galvanized steel one that’s similar – I might have to snag it for the patio 🙂
- I used these Ball canning jars to contain the silverware and straws – I find that the jars keeps things neater and it’s easier to keep clean.
- items for the caddy – what are you getting up for? Silverware, straws, salt and pepper, napkins, etc. I got these darling cloth napkins from HomeGoods – here they are on Amazon, but HomeGoods was much cheaper.
It’s such a simple solution to one of those annoying problems – have you ever tried a cutlery caddy?
Angelina Says
Do y’all still have a cutlery drawer? Or has this allowed you to use the drawer for storing other things instead? Just curious! I love the idea! ????
Alice Says
I have one of these for my plastic utensils. I only use it if we are having a group in the back yard for a barbecue. I think I am going to start using it every day and worry about the picnic stuff when the time comes. Why didn’t I think of this. We eat on the patio all summer long. This will save a little effort every day.
Tina Says
I use my cutlery drawer to put on the table and it works, hahahaha! Also a caddy for the used cutlery and easy to carry back to the kitchen and load the machine and let it rip! And the grandchildren love filling it up (the caddy) and bringing it in the kitchen! So no sharp knives in their wee hands!
Jane Gereghty Says
Great ideas. I like plastic washable caddies for organized bathroom essentials for family or guests.
Dödsbo Says
I love your blog, so many great tips. Will definitely apply this idea to my home 🙂