These clever storage solutions can make a big difference in a tiny kitchen.
Small kitchen organization can be a daunting task. But with the right strategies, you can turn your small kitchen space into a functional, clutter-free environment.
Do you feel like your small kitchen holds you back from reaching the inner culinary greatness locked up inside your soul? These professional organizer kitchen storage ideas can help you double the amount of space with just a few small adjustments.
This guide provides 20 practical hacks to help you transform your small kitchen into an organized and efficient space. You’ll find kitchen organization ideas to free up valuable counter space and have a perfectly organized kitchen, with no more wasted space.
You will also discover a section that discusses the primary small kitchen storage challenges and the right solutions to solve your issues.
20 Small Kitchen Storage Ideas
Be sure to keep reading to the end for 3 bonus professional organizer tips that will help you carve out extra space.
1. Use Vertical Space to Make the Most of a Small Kitchen
One of the most effective ways to maximize a small kitchen is by using vertical space. Install shelves or racks on walls to store items like a spice rack, pots, pans, and utensils. Wall-mounted pegboards are also great for hanging tools and keeping them within reach. Floating shelves can be both functional and decorative, allowing you to display pretty dishes or store everyday items.
Modular shelving units can be customized to fit your needs, whether you’re storing cookbooks or pantry staples. Creating even more vertical space keeps your countertops clear and adds a visually appealing element to your kitchen.
2. Invest in Stackable Food Storage Containers
Stackable food storage containers are perfect for organizing your pantry and cabinets. They help save space and keep food items neatly arranged. Choose clear containers so you can easily see what’s inside without having to open them. Labeling containers ensures you always know where everything is, making meal prep more efficient.
Different sizes and shapes can accommodate a variety of foods, from cereals to pasta to baking supplies. By investing in high-quality stackable containers, you’ll maintain an organized and easily navigable pantry.
3. Utilize Cabinet Doors
The inside of cabinet doors is often overlooked but can be an excellent space storing small items you need in your small kitchen. Install hooks or small racks to hold items like cutting mats, pot lids, or cleaning supplies.
You can also attach a spice rack or store paper towels inside the pantry door. This hack helps declutter your cabinets and keeps frequently used items within easy reach. For a DIY approach, adhesive hooks or magnetic strips can be easily added to cabinet doors, offering flexible storage solutions for all those wonderful kitchen gadgets.
4. Install a Pull-Out Pantry
If you don’t have much pantry space, consider installing a pull-out pantry. These narrow, slide-out shelves fit into small gaps between appliances or cabinets and provide extra storage for canned goods, spices, and other small items.
A pull-out pantry can be a game-changer for small kitchens, making use of otherwise empty space. Measure the gap where you want to install it and choose a model that fits perfectly. Organize items within the pull-out shelves to maximize visibility and access, ensuring you can quickly grab what you need while cooking.
5. Use Drawer Dividers
Drawer dividers help keep utensils and kitchen tools organized and easy to find. They prevent items from shifting around and creating a mess every time you open a drawer. Adjustable dividers can be customized to fit different drawer sizes and accommodate a variety of items.
Use the drawer divider to separate knives, forks, spoons, and other utensils, or to organize kitchen gadgets like peelers and can openers. Keeping your drawers tidy with dividers not only saves time but also reduces frustration when looking for specific tools.
You can find these at and container store or online.
6. Hanging Pots and Pans from Pot Racks
Hanging pots from pot racks or wall-mounted hooks frees up space inside the cabinets and makes them easily accessible. This also adds a rustic, professional kitchen look to your space. Choose a sturdy rack that can support the weight of your cookware, especially if you use weighty cast iron pans.
Ensure it’s securely installed. Arrange pots and pans by size or frequency of use, and consider adding hooks for lids as well. This hack not only saves space but also turns your cookware into a decorative feature of your small kitchen.
7. Add a Magnetic Knife Rack
Magnetic knife strips save counter space and keep knives within easy reach. They are safer than traditional knife blocks because they prevent blades from dulling and reduce the risk of accidental cuts. Install a magnetic strip on a wall near your prep area for convenient access to your knives. Besides knives, you can use the strip to hold metal utensils or spice jars with magnetic lids. This versatile storage solution helps keep your kitchen organized and your countertops clear.
8. Rolling Carts
A rolling cart adds flexible storage space and can be moved around as needed. Use it to store frequently used items, small appliances, or even as a portable island for extra prep space. Choose a cart with multiple shelves or drawers to maximize storage options. You can store mixers, blenders, or other electrics on the cart, freeing up valuable counter space. When not in use, roll the cart into a corner or another room to keep your kitchen open and uncluttered.
9. Install Lazy Susans in an Empty Corner
Lazy Susans are great for saving space by wisely using corner cabinets or countertops. They allow you to access items easily without knocking over everything else. Use them for spices, condiments, or small pantry items.
They come in various sizes and can be used in both upper and lower cabinets or in a corner pantry space. A Lazy Susan makes it easy to see and reach items stored at the back, minimizing the risk of food items being forgotten and going to waste. This rotating small kitchen storage solution is perfect for maximizing space in tight areas.
10. Under-Shelf Baskets to Make Extra Counter Space
Under-shelf baskets make use of the space underneath existing shelves. These wire baskets can hold items like dish towels, paper plates, or small kitchen gadgets. You can get that clutter off our countertops and into a dedicated spot.
Simply slide the basket onto an existing shelf, and it provides instant additional storage. Use them in your pantry to hold snack bags, sandwich bags, or other lightweight items. In cabinets, they can store dishcloths, pot holders, or small utensils. This hack helps keep your kitchen organized without taking up any extra space.
11. Clear the Counters
Keeping countertops clear of clutter not only makes your kitchen look larger but also provides more workspace. Store small appliances and other items in the kitchen cabinets or on shelves when not in use. A clean countertop is more inviting and makes it easier to cook and prepare meals.
Designate specific storage areas for items that tend to accumulate on counters, such as mail or keys. Regularly clean and declutter your countertops to maintain an open and organized kitchen environment.
12. Invest in Cutting Boards That Span the Kitchen Sink
An over-the-sink cutting board maximizes counter space by providing an additional prep area. These boards fit securely over your sink, allowing you to chop and slice while keeping the countertop clear.
Some models even come with built-in colanders or strainers, making it a breeze to rinse and chop vegetables in one place. Choose a sturdy board that fits your kitchen sink dimensions, and you’ll have a convenient prep area that can be easily cleaned and stored when not in use.
13. Use Empty Wall Space to Add Pegboards for Tools
Pegboards are versatile and customizable storage solutions for kitchen tools. Hang items like measuring cups, whisks, and spatulas on a pegboard to keep them organized and within reach. Install a pegboard on a wall or the inside of a cabinet door, and use hooks to arrange your tools.
You can easily rearrange items as needed, making this a flexible storage option. A well-organized pegboard keeps your tools accessible and your small kitchen counters clear of clutter.
14. Multi-Purpose Furniture for the Dining Room/Eat-in Kitchen
Choose furniture that serves multiple functions, such as an island with built-in storage or a table with drawers. This helps maximize space and reduces the need for additional storage pieces. An island with shelves or cabinets can provide extra storage for pots, pans, and pantry items.
A table with built-in drawers can hold linens, utensils, or other kitchen essentials. These storage ideas can make the most of your small kitchen’s available space.
15. Store Like Items Together to Maximize Small Space
Grouping similar items together makes it easier to find what you need and keeps your kitchen more organized. Designate specific areas for baking supplies, cooking utensils, and cleaning products. For example, keep all baking supplies in one cabinet or drawer, and store cooking utensils near the stove.
Grouping items by category helps streamline meal prep and cooking. You will reduce the time spent searching for ingredients or tools. This organizational strategy also makes it easier to maintain a tidy kitchen.
16. Add Hooks for Mugs and Utensils for Saving Space
Installing hooks under cabinets or shelves can create extra storage for mugs, utensils, or even pots and pans. This frees up cabinet space and keeps frequently used items within reach. Choose hooks that match your kitchen’s decor and securely install them in convenient locations.
Use them to hang mugs under a shelf or to hold utensils near your prep area. This simple hack not only adds storage but also enhances the functionality and aesthetics of your kitchen.
17. Use Trays and Baskets
Trays and baskets help corral small items and keep them from spreading out and creating clutter. Use them in cabinets, on shelves, or on countertops to group items together. For example, use a tray to hold oils, vinegars, and spices near the stove, making it easy to grab what you need while cooking. Baskets can organize snacks, dishcloths, or cleaning supplies. By containing items in trays and baskets, you can keep your kitchen tidy and make it easier to find what you need.
18. Over-the-Door Organizers
Over-the-door organizers can be used on pantry or cabinet doors to hold a variety of items, from cleaning supplies to snacks. These organizers come in various styles and sizes to fit your needs. Install one on the inside of a pantry door to hold spices, sauces, or snacks. Use another on a cabinet door to store cleaning supplies, freeing up under-sink space. Over-the-door organizers help maximize storage in small kitchens, keeping items accessible without taking up valuable counter or shelf space.
19. Use the Fridge Wisely
Maximize fridge space by using clear storage containers, drawer organizers, and shelf risers to organize food. Label shelves and bins to keep everything in its place and make it easy to find what you need. Use bins to group similar items, such as dairy products, condiments, or snacks.
Adding fridge risers create additional levels of storage, allowing you to stack items without crushing them. A well-organized fridge helps reduce food waste and makes meal prep more efficient. By keeping your fridge tidy, you can easily see what you have on hand, making it simpler to plan meals and grocery trips.
20. Declutter Regularly
Regularly decluttering your kitchen helps maintain organization and prevents the buildup of unnecessary items. Set aside time each month to go through cabinets, drawers, and the fridge to remove expired or unused items.
Evaluate your kitchen tools and gadgets, and donate or dispose of anything you haven’t used in the past year. Regular decluttering sessions keep your kitchen functional and prevent clutter from taking over your limited space.
Bonus Tips To Make the Best of a Small Kitchen
For even more efficiency, consider these additional tips:
- Label Everything: Labeling shelves, containers, and drawers helps everyone in your household know where things belong.
- Rotate Seasonal Items: Store seasonal or rarely used items in harder-to-reach places, keeping everyday essentials easily accessible.
- Optimize Lighting: Good lighting makes a small kitchen feel larger and more inviting. Use under-cabinet lighting to brighten up dark corners.
With a bit of creativity and these practical hacks, your small kitchen can become a well-organized, efficient, and enjoyable space to cook and gather.
Common Small Kitchen Challenges and the Solutions to Help Create More Space
To further enhance the organization of your small kitchen, it’s crucial to address common challenges specific to limited spaces. Below, we’ll explore several issues and provide solutions to maximize efficiency and storage.
Kitchen Storage Challenge #1: Limited Cabinet Space
What can you do when your small space lacks cabinets for all those oven mitts and essential tools? Here are some solutions that might apply.
Solutions to Make More Cabinet Space:
- Optimize Upper Cabinets: Use the full height of those up-high cabinets by adding shelf risers or installing additional shelves. This can create extra layers of storage for dishes, glasses, and pantry items.
- Use Cabinet Organizers: Invest in pull-out organizers, lazy Susans, and stackable shelves to maximize every inch of cabinet space. These tools make it easier to see and reach items, reducing clutter and improving accessibility.
- Store Items by Frequency of Use: Place frequently used items in easy to reach cabinets, while less frequently used items can be stored in higher or harder-to-reach areas. This keeps your most-needed tools and ingredients within arm’s reach.
Kitchen Storage Challenge #2: Limited Wall Space
When you lack places to hang tools, it’s time to maximize your vertical storage space with a bit of creativity.
Solutions:
- Install Pegboards: Utilize pegboards on available vertical storage space to hang cooking utensils, pots, and pans. This not only frees up cabinet space but also keeps frequently used items easily accessible.
- Add Magnetic Strips: Install magnetic strips on walls for holding knives, spice jars, or metal utensils. This is a space-saving alternative to countertop knife blocks and spice racks.
- Floating Shelves: Use floating shelves to store decorative items, cookbooks, or everyday essentials. These shelves can be placed where otherwise just wasted space, adding both extra storage space and style to your kitchen.
Kitchen Storage Challenge #3: Narrow Shelves
Some builders make a tiny space appear larger by using narrow shelving that’s proportionate to the kitchen size. When a shelf is too narrow, it becomes almost unusable space. Read on to see which kitchen storage ideas can solve that issue.
Solutions:
- Custom Shelving: Consider custom-built shelves that fit the specific dimensions of your narrow spaces. This ensures that no space is wasted and that shelves are tailored to your storage needs.
- Use Risers: Shelf risers can double the storage capacity of narrow shelves, allowing you to stack items vertically. This is particularly useful for storing plates, bowls, and pantry items.
- Slim Bins and Baskets: Use slim storage bins and baskets that fit narrow shelves. These can organize smaller items and prevent them from getting lost or cluttered.
Kitchen Storage Challenge #4: Limited Counter Space
Lacking precious counter space can be an extremely annoying problem. These small space solutions can help make the most of things.
Solutions:
- Over-the-Sink Cutting Boards: As mentioned earlier, over-the-sink cutting boards provide additional prep space without taking up counter space. These are especially useful for small kitchens with limited counter area.
- Wall-Mounted Fold-Down Tables: Install a wall-mounted fold-down table that can be used for extra prep space or as a dining area. When not in use, it can be folded away to free up space.
- Use Appliances Efficiently: Store small appliances like toasters, blenders, and coffee makers in cabinets or on rolling carts when not in use. This keeps your counters clear and provides more workspace.
Kitchen Storage Challenge #5: Integrating a Dining Room
When you’re not eating, the in-kitchen table can become become very cluttered, unused space.
Solutions:
- Multi-Functional Furniture: Choose dining tables and chairs that can double as storage. For example, a dining table with built-in drawers or benches with storage compartments can help you make the most of your space.
- Compact Dining Sets: Opt for compact, foldable dining sets that can be easily stored when not in use. This allows you to have a functional dining area without permanently taking up valuable kitchen space.
- Open Concept Design: If possible, create an open-concept layout that merges the kitchen and dining room. This can make the space feel larger and more cohesive, allowing for better flow and more efficient use of space.
Kitchen Storage Challenge #6: Maximizing Upper Cabinets
Those up-high cabinets offer much kitchen storage space, but only if you can reach it and use it wisely. Here’s how.
Solutions:
- Add Additional Shelves: Install extra shelves in upper cabinet spaces to create more storage levels. This can help you utilize the full height of the kitchen cabinets and store more items efficiently.
- Use Door Organizers: Attach door organizers to the inside cabinet doors. These can hold spices, small jars, or other lightweight items, freeing up shelf space for larger items.
- Store Infrequently Used Items: Place items that you don’t use often, such as seasonal dishes or special occasion cookware, in the uppermost shelves. This keeps everyday items within easy reach.
Kitchen Storage Challenge #7: Utilizing Open Shelving
Solutions:
- Stylish and Functional Storage: Open shelving can be both decorative and functional. Store everyday items like plates, glasses, and bowls in an organized and aesthetically pleasing way.
- Regular Maintenance: Keep open wall shelves tidy by regularly decluttering and reorganizing them. Since these shelves are visible, maintaining a neat appearance is important.
- Put Baskets and Bins on Open Shelves: Use baskets and bins on open shelves to corral smaller items and keep the shelves looking organized. This can also help prevent items from falling or getting lost.
Kitchen Storage Challenge #8: Dealing with an In-Kitchen Laundry Room
A laundry room can be a little bit of a messy, cluttery area. When it takes up part of your small kitchen, you may feel frustrated about how to blend the two rooms into one cohesive space. Here’s how.
Solutions:
- Invest in Space-Saving Appliances: Choose stackable or compact washer and dryer units to save space. This allows you to blend the laundry area into the kitchen without sacrificing too much room.
- Hidden Laundry Area: Install sliding doors or a curtain to conceal the laundry area when not in use. This helps maintain the kitchen’s aesthetics and keeps the space looking tidy. If you can’t separate the laundry machines from your kitchen altogether, consider adding kitchen cabinets (uppers) in the laundry area to make it make more sense.
- Multi-Functional Countertops: If possible, install a countertop over the washer and dryer to provide additional workspace or a folding area for laundry. This dual-purpose counter can be a valuable addition to a small kitchen.
The Takeaway: These Kitchen Storage Ideas Can Free up Additional Storage Space
Organizing a small kitchen may seem challenging at first. But when you try even just a few of these 20 hacks, you can create a functional, efficient, and clutter-free space. By maximizing vertical space, using innovative storage solutions, and regularly decluttering, you’ll transform your small kitchen into a well-organized area where cooking and meal prep become a joy.
Start implementing these professional organizer small kitchen storage ideas today and enjoy a more streamlined and enjoyable kitchen experience.
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She has a B.S.Ed. in Secondary Education/English and a Spanish Minor. In addition, she holds a Certificates in Natural Health and Herbology from accredited programs. She pursued these natural wellness certifications due to her love for herb gardening.
Despite freelancing to make a living, her love is "all things home."
Deborah grew up in a family that grew a large vegetable garden and a fruit orchard, helping her parents pull weeds and can home-grown foods as part of her childhood. In fact, she had no idea that she could purchase veggies and fruits in pre-packed steel cans until she went to college and made a food run.
Today, she lives in Bertie County, North Carolina, an agricultural rural area with more chickens than people. She lives with her husband and two rescue pets a sweet toy fox terrier and a cat who showed up one day and moved into the house. Together, they enjoy DIY projects, furniture refinishing, gardening, and canning.
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