The kitchen is an area where food for the entire family is prepared. Therefore, it is crucial that the kitchen is clean and organized. In Vastu Shastra, the kitchen is considered a source of well-being, happiness, and positive energy for the home. According to beliefs, clutter and dirt in the kitchen can disrupt the Vastu balance of the dwelling.
Often, due to lack of space or haste, people leave dirty dishes, medicines, and cleaning agents on the kitchen countertop. According to Vastu beliefs, placing certain items incorrectly in the kitchen is considered inauspicious. This is linked to negative energy, reduced prosperity, and financial difficulties. Below are four items that are recommended not to leave on the kitchen countertop, along with explanations of the associated beliefs.
1. Dirty Dishes and Plates
In many homes, dirty dishes are left directly on the kitchen countertop after eating or cooking. This habit is not favored in Vastu Shastra. There is a belief that leaving dirty dishes overnight can intensify negative energy in the house, which negatively affects peace and well-being. This is also associated with disorder and Vastu imbalance.
Therefore, it is best to wash dishes after cooking and meals. If immediate washing is not possible, the dishes should be placed neatly in the sink instead of being scattered across the countertop. This will help maintain kitchen cleanliness and ensure enough space for the next meal preparation.
2. Medicines and First Aid Kits
Many people leave daily-used medicines on the kitchen countertop for easy access. According to some Vastu beliefs, since the kitchen is considered a place associated with the fire element, placing medicines in the food preparation area can disrupt the energy balance. This is also linked to health problems.
It is best to store medications in a separate, dry, and safe cabinet or drawer. It is also important to keep them away from the stove, heat, and food. However, despite this, there is no solid scientific evidence that storing medicine on the kitchen countertop will lead to illness or a Vastu defect. It is only important to ensure that the medicines are in a place where they can be taken on time, and not due to Vastu principles.
3. Dirty Clothes, Rags, or Cleaning Supplies
Wet cloths, dirty rags, or cleaning brushes should not be left on the kitchen countertop. According to Vastu beliefs, the presence of dirt and clutter in the kitchen can negatively affect the atmosphere in the home. This is associated with negative energy and a deterioration of overall order in the house.
4. Broken Dishes and Glassware
Some principles of Vastu Shastra consider keeping broken cups, cracked plates, and damaged dishes in the home to be inauspicious. These items are associated with disorder, poverty, and financial problems. The belief states that accumulating unnecessary and broken things can negatively affect the atmosphere in the home. Therefore, it is advised to avoid piling up broken dishes on the kitchen countertop.
From a practical standpoint, using broken dishes for eating or cooking poses a risk of injury. Cracks in dishes can accumulate dirt, making them difficult to clean. If a dish is cracked, it is better to replace it. Glass shards should be disposed of carefully to avoid injuries.
How to Maintain Cleanliness and Order on the Kitchen Countertop
To maintain cleanliness and order on the kitchen countertop, it is recommended to follow several tips. Firstly, wipe the countertop daily with a damp cloth after cooking and do not allow water to accumulate. Secondly, create a permanent storage place for supplies: use separate containers or shelves for spices, oil, and frequently used items. Thirdly, store food safely, keeping it away from cleaning chemicals and trash bins. Furthermore, wet rags and sponges should be rinsed and dried in a well-ventilated area after use. Finally, do not allow unnecessary items such as broken dishes, empty boxes, and unused objects to accumulate on the countertop.
What Does Vastu Shastra Say?
Vastu Shastra connects the kitchen with prosperity and positive energy in the home. According to beliefs, maintaining cleanliness and proper order in the kitchen contributes to improving the home environment. Dirty dishes, broken items, and clutter are considered inauspicious within some Vastu beliefs, as they are associated with decreased well-being, poverty, and negative energy.
