An Ultimate Guide on How to Prepare for a Kitchen Remodel?

How to Prepare for a Kitchen Remodel?

Wondering how you’ll get through a kitchen remodel? The first week can feel overwhelming, but rest assured—you’ve got this! Take a deep breath and explore our comprehensive list of tips designed to make the process smoother and keep your stress in check.

Speak with Your Project Manager

Forge a strong connection with your Project Manager by discussing important project details, including the schedule, construction phases, and practicalities like dumpster location. Gaining clarity on what lies ahead can make the experience much smoother. Don’t hesitate to ask questions that ease any uncertainties—you’ll find that your project manager is ready to support and address all your concerns.

Empty the Kitchen

Before diving into packing, take a thorough inventory of your kitchen. Decide which appliances, décor, and dishware you truly want to keep. Be honest—if an item like those heirloom dishes has been collecting dust for years, it may be time to donate or pass it along to someone else.

Clear out anything that’s broken, outdated, or simply unused. If letting go is difficult, enlist a friend to help; they’ll give you a straightforward opinion on whether that cracked teapot or unopened fondue set should stay.

Once the unnecessary items are gone, start boxing up. Ensure that everything is removed from the kitchen before the renovation begins. Here are a few tips to simplify the packing process:

• Get a friend involved to make packing faster and more enjoyable.
• Separate the essentials you’ll need during the remodel and set them aside.
• Pack up items that won’t be used during construction and label each box.
• Use color-coded labels—yellow for spices, red for dishware—for easier sorting.
• Don’t forget hidden spaces, from drawers to the area under the sink.
• Take down all décor, artwork, knickknacks, calendars, and curtains.

If there are specific items like appliances, cabinetry, or light fixtures you’d like to keep or donate during demolition, let your project manager know in advance. Arrange for a Goodwill Restore pickup or another donation service to help with larger items you wish to donate.

Prepare a Temporary Kitchen

Once everything is packed up, select a spot in your home to serve as a temporary kitchen. Look for a space with a sink, a trash can, and enough room for essentials like a microwave or mini-fridge. Create a small pantry stocked with easy-to-make foods to cut back on dining out. Disposable plates, cups, and utensils can simplify cleanup, as you may be relying on this setup for several weeks.

Focus on meal ideas that require little prep. When the weather’s nice, enjoy backyard picnics or casual dinners on the patio to bring a little fun to mealtime. Switch things up by hosting a tea party lunch with your toddler in their room, or invite friends over for a relaxed outdoor pizza night.

If the weather in Hartland, Wisconsin, is pleasant and you have access to a grill, make the most of it by cooking outside. Even if outdoor dining isn’t an option due to weather or construction, you can still enjoy grilled meals indoors in your makeshift kitchen. Handy items to include are a hot plate, toaster oven, or Instant Pot. Keep cleanup simple by sticking with easy-to-make dishes like sandwiches, salads, and grilled options.

A temporary kitchen setup can reduce stress and keep things running smoothly throughout your remodel. For meal ideas, consider options from Green Chef’s meal plans, offering a variety of quick and healthy choices that work well in a simplified kitchen setup.

Decide Dining Room Space

Since you won’t have your usual kitchen and dining setup, it’s essential to establish a new eating area. Whether it’s a folding table by the sofa or a temporary dining table, choose a spot away from construction dust and debris. Creating a clean, comfortable dining space will make mealtimes easier and keep things organized during the renovation.

Wash Dishes and Easy Clean Up

With your kitchen out of commission, washing dishes there won’t be possible. Try finding other spots around the house to handle dishwashing, such as:

• The laundry room sink
• A bathroom sink
• A sink in the garage or basement
• Wet bar
• Outdoor sink or using the patio hose

Don’t forget to stock up on extra dish soap for these makeshift washing stations to ensure your dishes, pots, and utensils stay clean.

If washing dishes in alternative spaces becomes too challenging, or if you’re concerned about plumbing, consider disposable options to simplify cleanup. Here are some essentials to keep handy during the renovation:

• Disposable plates, bowls, and cutlery
• Napkins or paper towels
• Plastic wrap, foil, and storage bags
• Food storage containers

These items will help keep things hassle-free until your kitchen is ready to use again.

Go on a Family Vacation

Think about planning a family getaway during the most intense part of your remodel. Staying home during construction can quickly feel crowded and stressful, especially for young children who might struggle with the disruption. A vacation could be a perfect way to keep spirits high and ease the stress. Here are some fun ideas for turning the renovation period into a memorable family experience:

• Spend a couple of weeks with grandparents to enjoy a change of pace.
• If visiting family, switch locations weekly to keep things fresh.
• When Wisconsin gets chilly, consider a warm escape to Florida or Arizona.
• Plan an exciting family trip to Disneyland or another popular destination.
• Take a scenic train ride to Canada for a relaxing week away.
• Try a staycation at a local hotel and explore nearby Wisconsin attractions like the Circus World Museum or State Capitol.
• Head outdoors for a camping or hiking trip if the weather cooperates.
• If staying home is a must, arrange sleepovers with friends to give the kids a fun change.

Get your kids excited by talking about the upcoming trip and reminding them that, when they return, the kitchen will be newly transformed! This approach can make the remodeling process less stressful and create some positive memories along the way.