Plan the perfect kitchen hub

Fed up of a mountain of junk on the kitchen table? Follow these tips to getting your worksurface super-organised

Emergency numbers
Sort out a list of must-have numbers, such as your children's school, the doctor and dentist, a plumber and every family member's mobile number, and stick them on a pin board where everyone can see them.

Telephone area
Always have a memo pad and pen next to the telephone so you've got somewhere to jot down important messages and numbers.

Handy hooks
Hang a set of hooks for easy-grab bags and dog leads. Go for a second set for clearly labelled keys, so they're easy to identify and don't get mislaid.

Address and birthday books
Avoid the embarrassment of missing your friends' birthdays with a birthday book and a stash of blank cards.

In-tray
Be as organised at home as you are at work. In-trays make it simple to deal with paperwork on time – one for the school letters, another for bills that need paying, etc.

Where to buy

Walls painted in Sunrise, £14.99 for 2.5ltr, Crown Paints

Sonoma drawer unit, £699; oak worktop, £99; both Marks & Spencer

Heart hanging hook, £11, The Camomile Cupboard

In-trays, £9.95 each, Muji

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