This post is all about small kitchen organization ideas!
As someone who’s always looking for ways to make the most of my tiny cooking space, I’ve become a bit of an expert in small kitchen organization.
That’s why I’m thrilled to share 20 amazing ideas that have transformed my cluttered kitchen into a streamlined, functional dream.
Whether you’re dealing with a cozy apartment galley or a compact family kitchen, these tips will help you maximize every inch of space.
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1. Purchase Glass Jars In Different Sizes
One of my absolute favorite ways to organize my small kitchen is by using glass jars of various sizes. Not only do they look fantastic, but they’re also incredibly practical. I use them for everything from storing dry goods like rice and pasta to keeping my homemade granola fresh.
The best part? These jars come in so many shapes and sizes that you can find the perfect fit for any space in your kitchen. I love how they allow me to see exactly what I have at a glance, which makes meal planning and grocery shopping a breeze.
Pro tip: Look for jars with wide mouths for easy scooping and airtight lids to keep your food fresh longer.
2. Install A Magnetic Wall Rack
Talk about a game-changer! Installing a magnetic wall rack has been one of the best decisions I’ve made for my small kitchen. It’s perfect for keeping frequently used utensils within reach without cluttering up my limited counter space.
I use mine to hang everything from measuring spoons and spatulas to my trusty kitchen scissors. It’s not just functional; it adds a fun, industrial touch to my kitchen decor. Plus, it’s so satisfying to hear that little ‘click’ when I put a utensil back in place!
3. Try a Pull-Out Cabinet Organizer
If you’re anything like me, you’ve probably lost count of how many times you’ve dug through a crowded cabinet, searching for that one pot or pan hiding in the back. Enter the pull-out cabinet organizer – my new best friend in kitchen organization.
These nifty contraptions slide out smoothly, giving you easy access to everything inside. I’ve installed them in my lower cabinets for pots and pans, and in my pantry for canned goods.
4. Display Dried Goods In Mason Jars
Let’s talk about the charm of mason jars, shall we? These versatile containers are not just for canning anymore. I’ve fallen head over heels for using them to store and display my dried goods.
From colorful lentils to aromatic coffee beans, everything looks prettier in a mason jar. I’ve lined mine up on an open shelf, creating a beautiful and functional display.
5. Install Pull-Out Storage Between The Fridge and Wall
Okay, here’s a secret weapon for small kitchens: that narrow gap between your fridge and the wall. It’s often overlooked, but with a slim pull-out storage unit, it becomes prime real estate for storing spices, canned goods, or even cleaning supplies.
I installed one in my kitchen, and let me tell you, it’s been a total space-saver. Now, instead of wasted space, I have an extra pantry that slides out whenever I need it. Genius, right?
6. Store Pantry Items In Acrylic Containers
If you haven’t jumped on the acrylic container bandwagon yet, let me be the one to convince you. These clear, lightweight containers are perfect for storing pantry staples like flour, sugar, and cereal.
What I love most about them is how they stack neatly, making the most of vertical space in my pantry or cabinets. Plus, their transparency means I can easily see when I’m running low on something. No more overbuying or finding stale cereal at the back of the shelf!
7. Use Organizers In Your Cabinets
Cabinet organizers are like the Swiss Army knives of kitchen organization – they’re versatile, efficient, and oh-so-helpful. I’ve incorporated a variety of organizers in my cabinets, and it’s made a world of difference.
For instance, I use a tiered shelf organizer for my canned goods, making it easy to see and reach everything. In another cabinet, I have a rack for storing baking sheets and cutting boards vertically, which saves so much space. And don’t even get me started on how drawer dividers have transformed my utensil drawer from a jumbled mess to a neat, organized space!
8. Add Aesthetic Labels To Everything
Now, let’s talk about one of my favorite parts of kitchen organization – labeling! It might sound a bit Type A, but trust me, adding pretty labels to your containers and organizers not only looks great but also helps maintain order in your kitchen.
I use a label maker for a clean, uniform look, but you could also go for handwritten labels for a more personal touch. I label everything from spice jars to storage bins in the pantry. It not only helps me find things quickly but also encourages everyone in the household to put things back in their proper place. Plus, it’s just so satisfying to see all those neat labels lined up!
9. Hang Teacups And Mugs From Brass Hooks
If you’re a tea or coffee lover like me, you probably have a collection of mugs and teacups taking up valuable cabinet space. Here’s a solution that’s both practical and pretty: hang them on brass hooks!
I installed a row of brass hooks under one of my upper cabinets, and now my favorite mugs are always within reach. It’s not just convenient; it also adds a charming, cafe-like touch to my kitchen. And let’s be honest, some mugs are too cute to hide away in a cabinet!
10. Keep Similar Items Grouped Together
This might seem like a no-brainer, but it’s amazing how much easier cooking becomes when you group similar items together. In my pantry, I have dedicated areas for baking supplies, breakfast items, snacks, and so on.
This system makes it so much easier to find what I need and to keep track of what I have. It’s also great for meal planning – I can see at a glance what ingredients I have for different types of meals. Plus, it helps prevent overbuying, which is always a win for both my wallet and my small kitchen space!
11. Use The Space Above Your Fridge
The top of the fridge is often an overlooked storage spot, but in a small kitchen, every inch counts. I’ve turned this area into a super functional storage space for items I don’t use every day.
I keep a couple of attractive baskets up there for storing things like extra paper towels, rarely used appliances, or even cookbooks. It’s out of the way but still accessible when I need it. Just make sure whatever you store up there isn’t too heavy and won’t interfere with the fridge’s ventilation.
12. Install a Spice Rack Inside a Cabinet Door
Spices can be one of the trickiest things to organize in a small kitchen. They’re small, numerous, and you want them easily accessible while cooking. My solution? A spice rack installed on the inside of a cabinet door.
I use a tiered rack that allows me to see all my spices at once. It’s a real space-saver and makes cooking so much more efficient. No more rummaging through a crowded shelf or drawer to find the cumin.
13. Attach Shelving To The Bottom Of Your Upper Cabinets
Here’s a clever trick I recently discovered: attaching small shelves to the underside of your upper cabinets. It’s like creating extra cabinet space out of thin air!
I use these shelves for items I reach for frequently, like salt and pepper, olive oil, or even small plants to add a touch of green to my kitchen. It keeps these items off the counter but still within easy reach. Plus, it adds a unique, custom look to your kitchen.
14. Install Open Shelving That Goes Up To The Ceiling
If you’re looking to really maximize your vertical space, consider installing open shelving that extends all the way up to the ceiling. This has been a game-changer in my small kitchen.
Not only does it provide tons of extra storage, but it also creates a beautiful display area. I use the lower shelves for everyday items and the higher ones for less frequently used pieces or decorative items. It gives the illusion of a larger space and allows me to show off some of my favorite kitchen items.
15. Add A Wine Glass Rack Under A Shelf
For my fellow wine enthusiasts out there, here’s a tip you’ll love: install a wine glass rack under one of your shelves or cabinets. It’s a brilliant way to store your wine glasses without taking up valuable cabinet space.
I added one under an open shelf in my kitchen, and it’s both functional and stylish. The glasses are easily accessible when I want to pour a glass of wine, and they add a touch of sophistication to my kitchen decor.
16. Hang Pots and Pans on Hooks
Let’s talk about pots and pans – they’re essential, but boy, can they take up a lot of space! My solution? Hanging them on hooks. I installed a pot rack above my kitchen island, and it’s been a total space-saver.
Not only does it free up cabinet space, but it also puts my cookware within easy reach when I’m cooking. Plus, I think it looks pretty cool – like a professional chef’s kitchen! If you don’t have space for a ceiling-mounted rack, you can also install a wall-mounted version or even just a few sturdy hooks on the wall.
17. Consider Tiered Trays On The Counter
Counter space is precious in a small kitchen, which is why I love using tiered trays. They allow you to utilize vertical space on your countertops, effectively doubling or even tripling your storage area.
I use a three-tier metal tray on my counter for frequently used items like fruit, snacks, and small kitchen tools. It keeps things organized and easily accessible without cluttering up my limited counter space. Plus, it adds a cute, farmhouse-chic touch to my kitchen decor.
18. Integrate Storage Baskets In The Pantry
Baskets are a pantry’s best friend, especially in a small kitchen. They’re perfect for corralling all those loose items that can make a pantry look cluttered and disorganized.
I use a variety of baskets in my pantry – some for snacks, others for baking supplies, and even one for those random packets and sachets that always seem to accumulate. Not only does it keep everything tidy, but it also makes it super easy to pull out what I need without disrupting the whole pantry.
19. Try a Narrow Shelving Unit
In a small kitchen, you need to make use of every available inch – including those narrow spaces that might seem unusable. That’s where narrow shelving units come in handy.
I found a slim rolling cart that fits perfectly in the gap between my fridge and the wall. It provides extra storage for things like spices, oils, and vinegars. The best part? It rolls out when I need to access it and tucks away neatly when I don’t. It’s like having a secret extra pantry!
20. Hang Baskets From The Wall
Last but certainly not least, let’s talk about wall-mounted baskets. This is one of my favorite small kitchen hacks because it’s so versatile and can add a really cute, rustic touch to your decor.
I hung a set of three wire baskets on my kitchen wall to store fresh produce like onions, potatoes, and garlic. It keeps them off the counter, allows for good air circulation to prevent spoilage, and looks adorable!
From glass jars and magnetic racks to hanging baskets and tiered trays, there are so many creative ways to maximize space in a small kitchen. The key is to think vertically, use every nook and cranny, and choose organization solutions that work for your specific needs and cooking style.
Remember, organizing a small kitchen is an ongoing process. Don’t be afraid to try different solutions and adjust as you go along. What works perfectly for someone else might not be the best fit for you, and that’s okay! The most important thing is to create a space that makes you happy and inspires you to cook and create.
I hope these ideas have inspired you to tackle your own small kitchen organization project. Trust me, the effort is so worth it. There’s nothing quite like the satisfaction of a well-organized kitchen, where everything has its place and you can find what you need at a moment’s notice.
