How to Get Ready for Your Kitchen Remodel

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How to Prepare for Your Kitchen Remodel

Tips from McManus Kitchen & Bath and real clients who’ve been there.

Remodeling your kitchen is exciting — and a little overwhelming. We get it. Even when you’re working with an experienced, full-service team, as part of a full kitchen remodel, it's still a disruption to your daily life.

But with the right preparation, you’ll feel more in control and confident through every stage.

Here’s how to set yourself (and your kitchen!) up for success.

1. Start with a Kitchen Cleanout

While you’re still in the design phase or waiting on materials to arrive, it’s the perfect time to declutter.

• • Go through all your cabinets and drawers

• • Create three piles: keep, donate/sell, and toss

• • Be honest — are you really using that third crock pot?

Pro tip: List old appliances a few days before the new ones arrive.

Facebook Marketplace, Craigslist, and local charities like Habitat for Humanity and Lighthouse Children’s Home are great places to rehome items.

2. Decide What’s Worth Salvaging

Not everything has to go. Old countertops might work for an outdoor kitchen, and base cabinets can be reused in your garage or laundry room. If you're the DIY type, think ahead about what’s worth saving before demo day.

3. Set Up a Temporary Kitchen

Even if you’re planning to eat out, a temporary kitchen setup will make life much easier.

• • Set up a table or dresser in a spare room

• • Move the fridge nearby if possible

• • Keep essentials like a microwave, air fryer, or electric skillet close

• • Use a bathroom or hallway for your coffee station

• • Stock eco-friendly disposable plates, cups, and utensils

• • Budget ahead for takeout and freezer-friendly meals

• • Ask friends or family if they’d host a few dinners

You can also borrow our Kitchen-in-a-Box — a portable setup that includes a sink, sprayer, induction cooktop, cutting boards, dishes, and weatherproof bins. Just ask your project lead!

4. Make a Plan for Your Pets

We’ll talk with you about a pet plan before your project starts, but here are a few things to keep in mind:

• • Make sure pets have microchips and collars

• • Create a cozy, quiet space away from the chaos

• • Play soft music to drown out construction noise

• • Take them for extra walks or breaks

• • If your pet gets anxious, consider pet sitters or temporary boarding (check Rover.com)

5. Focus on the Positive

Yes, it gets messy. Yes, your routine will shift. But this process is a privilege — and one that ends with a kitchen built just for you.

Remind yourself why you started. Plan some nights out. Pair down your stuff.

Let the design process be exciting again. And don’t hesitate to reach out — we’re here to make this easier on you.

Real Advice from Real Clients

We asked former clients what helped them the most during their remodel. Here are their top tips:

Start early

Begin sorting your kitchen at least 3 weeks before your project starts.

Use bins wisely

Plastic tubs for food. Cardboard boxes for dishes. Label everything.

Create a temporary kitchen

Even a simple setup with a microwave and coffee maker helps. One client even put their coffee station in the bathroom!

Bonus Tips We Love

• • Keep quick breakfast options handy (oatmeal, granola, yogurt)

• • Use small appliances: air fryer, toaster oven, rice cooker

• • Store condiments and spices — they upgrade frozen meals fast

• • Prep and freeze meals in advance

• • Stock up on paper goods — doing dishes will be a pain without a sink

• • Buy a few ice trays since your fridge won’t be hooked up

Remodeling can be overwhelming, but a little prep goes a long way. Whether you’re working with our team or just getting started, we hope this guide makes the process feel simpler and more manageable.