Where to Spend vs. Where to Save in a 2026 Kitchen Refresh

January has a funny way of making us look at our homes (and selves) with fresh eyes. Suddenly the kitchen, which we used a lot in December and turned a blind eye to its inefficiencies, now feels chaotic, overcrowded, and slightly unhelpful. You vow that this is the year you get it organized… and then immediately wonder how much that’s going to cost.

Here’s the good news: a well-functioning kitchen doesn’t require unlimited funds or a full container overhaul. The key is knowing where to spend and where to save, especially at the start of a new year when most of us are aiming to be a little more intentional with our money.

Think of this less as “new year, new everything” and more as “new year, smarter systems.” The trick is putting your budget where it will actually make a difference.

Where It’s Worth Spending

1. Quality Containers (Not All of Them — Just the Right Ones)

Decanting can be transformational, but only when it’s done intentionally. Investing in durable, airtight containers for items you use often (grains, cereals, snacks, baking staples) keeps food fresh, visible, and easy to manage.  

You don’t need to decant everything. Flour? Yes. A single packet of novelty biscuits from Christmas? Probably not.

Good containers last years and prevent waste, that’s a quiet win in January.

2. Drawer Systems & Pull-Out Solutions

If your kitchen shelves are deep, fixed, or awkward, this is where money is well spent. Invest in Pull-out drawers, baskets, turntables or shelf inserts turn unreachable space into functional storage and stop items disappearing into the back “for later.” Less digging = fewer duplicates = fewer surprise purchases.

3. Labels That Actually Stay On

This may sound small, but it matters. Proper labels reduce confusion, help everyone in the household put things back correctly, and keep systems running long after January motivation fades.

This isn’t about aesthetic perfection, it’s about clarity. If it’s labelled, it gets used. If it gets used, it doesn’t expire quietly behind the lentils. You don’t need a label maker - wine pens make labeling a breeze.

Pro Tip: avoid Dry Erase Pens as they smudge every time they are touched.

Where You Can (Comfortably) Save

1. Reuse What You Already Own

Before buying anything new, shop your own home. Glass jars, spare baskets, and unused containers can work perfectly once items are edited and grouped properly.

January is an excellent time to pause before purchasing and ask, “Do I already have something that does this job?” Often, the answer is yes.

2. Mix Container Styles

Matching products look lovely, but they’re not essential. A mix of shapes, materials and sizes works just as well when everything is clearly grouped and labelled. Uniformity is optional. Function is not.

3. Edit First, Buy Later

The biggest mistake we see is buying storage before editing. If you declutter first and measure your space, you won't end up with unused or incorrect containers, and that alone can save a surprising amount of money and frustration.

The New Year Takeaway

A kitchen refresh doesn’t have to be all or nothing. The smartest approach is thoughtful investment: spend where structure and longevity matter, save where creativity and reuse work just as well. If you’re planning a refresh this year and want help deciding where your budget will have the biggest impact, All Buttoned Up would love to help.

Happy Organizing,

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