A small kitchen can quickly feel cramped, especially when both counter and cabinet space are limited. With an overflowing collection of pots, pans, cookware, and appliances, finding a place to store everything can seem like a daunting task. However, having some innovative small kitchen storage ideas will definitely pave the way for a streamlined setup. We spoke to organizational experts to answer all your storage woes and help you create the perfect space to spend your time.
Get rid of unused items
Natalia Robert
Start by taking inventory of your items so you know everything you own. Donate anything you haven't used in the past year that is still working, as well as duplicates of items (like water bottles and mugs). Throw away anything that is broken or unsafe to use.
“For best results, take all the items stored in your kitchen and group them by category,” says professional organizer Leslie Lehr. “Also, throw away expired food and keep non-kitchen products you use occasionally in another part of your home.” For example, cookbooks, documents, and medications don't necessarily need to be in the kitchen. there is no.
Get creative with cabinet doors
Provided by Container Store
It's true that you're making good use of space in your cabinets and pantry, but what about the doors themselves? “Using the backs of cabinet doors and the pantry can potentially free up unused storage space,” says Lehr. says Mr. “Measure each door you plan to use for additional storage and explore our online resources or visit our stores in person to find the right product for your needs.”
Utilize wall space
David Patterson Photos
To increase storage space, take advantage of the vertical space on your kitchen walls to free up countertops and cabinets. Consider installing wall shelves, perfect for storing spices, crockery and small appliances, or get creative with hooks. These are perfect for hanging pots and pans, adding decorative flair while saving space.
Optimize your pantry
Organize your pantry essentials to maximize your space. Ben Soleff, a professional organizer at House to Home Organizing, says, “When your pantry is crowded, many items go unused and the cycle of repurchasing continues.” Check the expiration dates on cereals and dry goods to avoid unnecessary items taking up valuable shelf space.
Store dishes in drawers
By storing things like forks and knives in drawers, you can keep kitchen tools out of sight and save valuable counter space. “Utensil trays are not only a great way to hold items in place, but they also give you limits to your categories,” Solev says. “The goal is not just to find what you’re looking for, but to make everything easy and get results easily.”
Implement tilt-down drawers
To make the most of your small kitchen, take advantage of even the smallest nook. For example, tilt-out sink drawers are a convenient way to store sponges and other cleaning supplies that take up valuable counter space.
Add knife storage to wall
Rebecca McAlpin
A wall-mounted knife block may seem like a design element, as seen in this powder blue kitchen by Michelle Gage, but in reality, it can clutter drawers and drawers. You'll be able to use some of your most commonly used kitchen tools without having to worry about it. counter top.
Add open shelves
sam rand
One of Martha's favorite design features includes open shelving, which helps alleviate cramped space while providing an opportunity to display kitchen essentials. “If your plates and cups sit on open shelves every day, reviewing them is very important,” Solev says. “Notice how often you use them to decide what to put on your shelves.”
Use cabinets for pantry items
Modifying your cabinets to act as a customizable pantry space is a convenient all-in-one solution. Pull-out drawers and racks allow you to store all of your pantry items in one convenient location that's infinitely smaller than a regular-sized pantry.
Use clear food storage containers
With a small cabinet packed with baking supplies and snacks, it can be difficult to find what you already have on hand. “Glass jars and canisters make pantry food easier to see and make better use of vertical space than plastic bags,” says certified professional organizer and owner of Heartwork His Organizing. Darla DeMorow says.
Pay attention to vertical storage
Add dowel rods to cabinets and shelves to vertically store items like pots, cutting boards, and plates.
think outside the kitchen
If you have limited storage space in your kitchen, use other rooms to reduce clutter. Move your bar supplies and entertainment pieces into your living room with custom cabinetry.
Have a designated utility closet
Find another place to store cleaning supplies that you normally keep in your kitchen cabinets. “Don't sacrifice valuable storage space for a vacuum cleaner you don't use every day,” Demarow says. Instead, dedicate a separate closet in your home to storing brooms, mops, and dustpans.
add spice rack
Different spices can take up more space than you think. Keep these kitchen essentials organized by storing them in a designated spice rack so you can quickly identify and retrieve what you need while cooking.
Make your own pegboard
Hang a custom pegboard on your wall and it's easy to save space. Place the pegs wherever you like to support shelves and use them to store everything from condiments to silverware.
Organize your storage containers
Do you have drawers dedicated to different food containers? Take stock of your supplies and let go of any that don't have matching lids or bodies. Return the container to its designated drawer and keep the same items the same.
