How to Organize Medicine in a Kitchen
Medicines can be one of those must-haves that sneakily eat into your household budget. Setting up a system for how to organize medicines in your kitchen not only helps you keep track of what you have but also ensures you use them before they expire.
This guide will walk you through creating another organized spot in your home, bringing you one step closer to your kitchen organization goals.
If you’re like most people, your kitchen is the heart of your home. It’s where you cook, eat, help with homework, and hang out with family and friends. But did you know that it’s also a great place to store medicine? Following a few simple tips, you can keep your medicine organized, stocked, current, and easy to find whenever needed.
What basic medicines should you always have on hand?
When organizing your medicine cabinet in the kitchen, it’s important to have a basic set of medicines that cover common ailments and emergencies.
- Pain Relievers: Acetaminophen (Tylenol) or ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin) for headaches, muscle pain, or fever.
- Antihistamines: For allergies or mild allergic reactions (e.g., diphenhydramine like Benadryl or loratadine like Claritin).
- Cold and Flu Remedies: Decongestants, cough suppressants, and throat lozenges.
- Antacids: For heartburn or indigestion (e.g., Tums, Rolaids, or omeprazole).
- Anti-Diarrheal: Loperamide (Imodium) for diarrhea.
- Hydration Solutions: Oral rehydration salts or electrolyte powders for dehydration.
- Antiseptic Cream or Ointment: For cuts and scrapes (e.g., Neosporin).
- Bandages and Dressings: Adhesive bandages, gauze, and medical tape.
- Thermometer: To monitor fevers.
- Tweezers and Scissors: For splinters or cutting bandages.
- Anti-Itch Cream: Hydrocortisone cream for rashes or insect bites.
- Antifungal Treatments: For athlete’s foot or yeast infections.
- Pain Relief Patches or Rubs: For muscle aches or strains.
- Eye Drops: Saline or lubricating drops for dry or irritated eyes.
It’s also a good idea to include any prescription medications you or your family members need, along with a list of emergency contacts and instructions for use. Always check expiration dates regularly and store medicines in a cool, dry place out of reach of children.
How to Organize Medicine in a Kitchen
Having a dedicated space for your family’s medicines can make a big difference in staying organized and managing everyone’s care.
1. Find the Right Container
Look for a container that’s the right size to hold your medicines while still fitting neatly in the space where you plan to store them.
Good Containers for Meds:
- A shoebox
- A plastic bin
- A basket
- A spice organizer
- A tray
Pick something that works for your needs and keeps everything in one spot.
2. Sort Your Medicines
Dividing medicines into categories can make it much easier to find what you need.
Sorting Meds Options:
- Allergy medicines
- Pain relievers
- Cold and flu remedies
- Prescriptions
Another great option is to assign a container to each family member, especially if someone has multiple medications they regularly take.
Avoid piling everything together in one big container—that kind of clutter can be frustrating when you’re in a hurry. Instead, take the time to sort everything into smaller sections so it’s easy to grab what you need without the headache of digging through a mess.
DM Pro tip: A spice rack can be perfect for organizing medication bottles. Use one for each family member to keep things simple, neat, and safe.
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#3. Label everything
Labels are important, but nowhere more so than with medications. Use labels or stickers to clearly identify each supplement and when it expires. You can also include information such as side effects specific to each family member, how to take medication so it works better, and what the medication is specifically meant to help.
You can use these stickers to know each medication’s lifespan and/or supplement. Instead of initials, you can use that column to make any notes.
7 PCS Child-Proof Pill Bottle with Labels Stickers, Portable Case, Medicine Pill Organizer with Child Resistant Caps, Travel Pill Box 7 Day for Vitamin Supplement Fish OilMedicine Stickers Medication Instruction Label Permanent Paper Label AM NOON PM for Pill case Planner 0.4 * 1.6inch (500 per Roll 3 Pack)Outus 320 Pcs Waterproof Removable Labels with Makers Pen Self Adhesive Label Stickers for Water Bottles Spice Food Containers Jars Pantry Restaurant Storage(Colorful)
DM Pro Tip: If you have medication that is prescribed to certain individuals you can label that container with that person’s name and keep their medication safely stored inside. This will help to ensure it does not get taken by anyone else, and it will also help each person find their medication quickly.
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#4. Set up a Medicine Cabinet
If you have a lot of medicines for colds, flu, or prescriptions, consider dedicating an entire cabinet in your kitchen to store them all. Using a shelf riser can make it easier to see what you have at a glance, or you can use labeled baskets to keep things organized.
You can even assign each shelf to a different category, so it’s quicker and easier to grab exactly what you need when you need it.
Medicine Categories:
- Cold
- Flu
- Allergies
- Pain
- Headache
- Eyes and Ears
#5. Check expiration dates regularly
Set a reminder on your calendar or phone to check the expiration dates on your supplements every few months or seasonally. This is a great way to customize your shopping list as well.
For example, if you bought a jumbo pack of cough drops from Costco but barely touched them by the end of flu season, make a note for next year. This way, you’ll remember to only buy what you really need, which can save you money and reduce waste over time.
#6. Use the first in, first out rule
When you get new medication or supplements, put them at the back of the storage container and move the older ones to the front. This way, you’ll always be sure to use them before they expire.
D/M Pro Tip: Whenever you throw out medicine, or anything for that matter, be sure to add it right then and there to your grocery list. This will ensure you always have an up-to-date list so you are not caught without something ever again.
#7. Use a Pill Organizer for your Own Meds
This was a game-changer for me. When I began using a medication organizer I found it so much easier to keep up to date with routine medications I was on.
I’d suggest starting with a basic, affordable one from the dollar store to see if it works for you before spending money on a fancier option. It’s such a simple change but can make a big impact.
#8. Don’t forget about your pets
If you have pets, it’s a great idea to create a dedicated space just for their supplements and medications. Try setting up a “pet hub” in your kitchen or laundry area to keep everything organized and separate from your own supplies.
Make sure to store items like flea preventatives, prescription meds, or vitamins safely out of reach of curious paws (or children.). Remember always to check with your veterinarian before giving any supplements to your pet.
Bonus Tips for Storing Medicine in the Kitchen
When setting up a medicine area in your kitchen, a few extra tips can help keep things organized, safe, and functional.
- Avoid Heat and Steam: Medications and supplements need a cool, dry spot to stay effective. Make sure they’re stored away from steam coming from your sink or dishwasher and far from the heat of your stove or oven.
- Create a Weekly Routine: Pick a day to refill your medication organizer and take a quick inventory of your supplies. This way, you’ll know what’s running low and what’s in stock, avoiding last-minute pharmacy runs.
- Invest in a Travel Case: A compact travel case for medications and supplements can be a lifesaver when you’re on the go. It not only helps keep everything organized but also ensures you stay consistent with your schedule while traveling.
- Use Clear or Labeled Containers: Keeping medications and supplements in clear bins with labels makes it easier to spot things quickly. You can even color-code bins for different family members to streamline the process further.
- Store Out of Reach: Especially for homes with kids or pets, make sure medications are stored up high or in a cabinet with childproof locks to prevent accidental ingestion.
- Add a Reminder Spot: Consider leaving a small notepad or whiteboard near your medicine storage area. You can jot down what’s running low, expiration dates, or even notes for your next doctor’s appointment.
Taking a little extra time to plan out your setup can make a big difference in how easily you manage your family’s health needs.
By following the tips above, you can help to ensure that your medications and supplements are well organized and easy to find when you need them. You’ll also be able to keep track of expiration dates and save money in the long run by only buying what you need.
Do you have tips on how to organize medicine in your kitchen? Share in the comments below, we would love to hear from you!
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