Why is smart storage so important for a small kitchen?
Finding storage space in a small kitchen can be tricky. With few cabinets, cramped counter space, and limited kitchen options, a kitchen can quickly become cluttered and less practical. With the right storage tips, even a small kitchen can look more spacious and presentable. The key is to make the most of every space, think vertically, and come up with creative ways to make everyday cooking and meal prep easier.
Make the most of wall space
The walls in a small kitchen are one of the most common places people forget to clean. By installing open shelves, wall racks, or magnetic strips, you can free up more cabinet and counter space while keeping the items you use most within reach. Open shelves can be used to display beautiful tableware or store frequently used cookware. A magnetic knife or spice rack can keep your tools visible and out of the way without taking up drawer space.
Install hooks on shelves and under cabinets
Hooks are small, inexpensive, and a great way to make the most of limited space. Place mugs, cooking utensils, or even small bags under shelves and hang them on the hooks. You can also attach hooks to the inside of cabinet doors to hang dish towels, measuring cups, or pot holders. This not only saves space in drawers, but also keeps essential items within reach while you’re cooking.
Use stackable containers in your pantry and cabinets
Invest in a set of clear, stackable containers for dry items like cereal, flour, rice, and pasta. These containers make it easy to see when food is running low, save space, and keep food fresher for longer. Choose containers that are the same size so they’re easy to stack, and label each one to keep everything organized. You can also store items under the sink or on small kitchen shelves with stackable storage containers.
Install tension rods to create dividers and hanging storage. Drawer rods are great for small kitchens. Place them vertically to separate baking sheets, cutting boards, and dishes in lower cabinets. They can be placed horizontally under the sink to hang spray bottles or as a small towel rack. They’re inexpensive, easy to install, and don’t need to be permanently installed, making them ideal for renters or those who need to quickly change items.
Make the most of the inside of your cabinet doors
People often waste space on the inside of cabinet doors that could be used to store something useful. To store items like spice jar lids, cling film, or cleaning supplies, install thin shelves or stick-on organizers. You can also use whiteboards or chalkboard paint to transform the inside of the door into a handy eating space for planning meals or writing grocery lists.
Use a rolling cart or mobile island
If your kitchen lacks counter space or storage, a small rolling cart can serve a variety of purposes. It can be used as an extra space for food preparation, a coffee stand, or a handy cabinet. When not in use, you can store it in a corner or move it to another room. To make a cart more practical, choose one with shelves, drawers, or hooks. Adding a removable bench with wheels can help you free up more space.
Use a rotating serving platter for hard-to-reach places
Corner cabinets and deep shelves are hard to reach, which often makes them cluttered. A rotating platter lets you turn things around without having to dig through piles. You can place them in a cabinet for spices, oils, or sauces, or in the refrigerator to keep jars and containers organized. They help free up space and keep everything visible and within reach.
Hang a pegboard to create storage that suits you
Hanging a pegboard is a great way to add portable storage. You can hang pots and pans, tools, or even small bags on them. You can move the pegs and paint the pegboard to match your kitchen style. This is very practical for people who cook a lot and like to have their tools at hand. With careful decoration, the pegboard can also become an artistic focal point.
Double the height of a shelf with a shelf riser
By using shelf risers, you can maximize the unused space in your cabinets. With these practical pieces of furniture, you can create extra levels to stack cups on plates or place cans on multiple levels. With adjustable risers, you can change the shape of your cabinets without tools.
Storage on top of cabinets
People don’t use the space above kitchen cabinets very often, but it can be used to store items that they don’t use often or that just look nice. Stack pretty boxes or storage bins high to store spare dishes, bulk food, or cookware that is used at different times of the year. This method hides clutter and makes the most of the space. Always use footstools and store lightweight, unbreakable items for everyone’s safety.
Use the sides of shelves and appliances
In a small kitchen, the sides of shelves, refrigerators, and cabinets are great places to store items. For utensils, towels, and even small containers, install adhesive hooks, thin shelves, or magnetic organizers. For extra storage without drilling holes, consider adding a small spice rack with indicator strips or a shelf that attaches to the refrigerator.
Use collapsible or folding utensils. If you don’t have a lot of storage boxes or cabinet space, opt for cookware that folds up or can be used in multiple ways. Look for collapsible items like bowl racks, nestable bowls, or stackable measuring cups. These items offer just as much functionality as standard utensils, but take up less space. In a small kitchen, investing in clever space-saving tricks can really help.
Only keep what you need
No matter how many tricks you use, if you keep tools or items that you don’t use or need, clutter will come back. Periodically declutter your kitchen and throw out or put away things that you haven’t used in a few months. An easy way to make your kitchen feel bigger and easier is to keep it simple. Only keep the essentials and kitchen utensils that can be used for multiple purposes.
Small kitchen with unlimited possibilities
To get the most out of your small kitchen, you need to store things cleverly, be creative with unused space, and choose smart solutions that fit your lifestyle. You don’t have to do a drastic remodel or spend a fortune on custom cabinets to have a beautiful and functional kitchen. This simple storage trick will make any kitchen feel more spacious, organized, and ready for everyday use. A clean and tidy kitchen makes cooking easier and more enjoyable, whether you’re cooking for your family or just for yourself.
