Homeowners looking to refresh their kitchens can create a new mood in seven steps, according to two culinary retailers.Writing for the Miami Herald, Louise Meyers and Laura ORourke said improving the look and functionality of the kitchen doesnt require a lot of money.The first steps are to give your kitchen a fresh coat of paint and use linens to add splashes of colour.Checking kitchen tools and gadgets to make sure they still work and ensuring spices are still usable are the next recommended stages.Throw away broken pieces, and find out whats not working, Ms Meyers said.Spices should be tested by rubbing a few flakes between thumb and finger, Ms ORourke added.If it produces a pungent smell, the spice is still good. If not, youre cooking with dust.Next, update your pantry and wine cabinet so there are always appetizers and something to drink available should you have unexpected visitors.Reduce, reuse and recycle is the next stage. Cookware you no longer use can be given to friends or donated to charity and worn tea towels can be used as rags.And finally, clean the windows.Youd be surprised how much of a difference it makes for the kitchen, Ms ORourke said.Ms Myers owns Prydes kitchen and home accessories store in Kansas City, Missouri and Ms ORourke owns the Culinary Centre of Kansas City which runs cooking classes and demonstrations.