The Challenge: To impose order on cords from a multitude of small kitchen appliances and find room for recharging cell phones and PDAs in the process.

To the Rescue:

A multiple-outlet adapter expands the capabilities of the conventional two-plug wall outlet. The GE Side-Access Six-Outlet Adapter ($5, www.gracioushome.com) provides three outlets per side, and unlike a power strip, it doesn't squander precious countertop space.

To contain excess cords fully (particularly important if you have a tug-happy toddler), plastic discs with reels wind up and store the surplus. Try Wire Away ($7, www.organize-everything.com).

Installation Savvy: When charging two gadgets at the same time, plug them into opposite ends of the multi-outlet adapter. This will accommodate those clunky transformer plugs without covering up additional sockets.