18 Ways to Squeeze a Little Extra Storage Out of a Small Kitchen

The morning sun trickled through the tiny kitchen window, casting a warm glow on the cluttered countertops. Sarah, a busy mom of two, stood there pondering how to make sense of her small, cramped kitchen. With every cabinet bursting at the seams and no space left untouched, she felt overwhelmed. She’d heard stories of folks in similar situations finding creative kitchen organization tips, but her journey to declutter her kitchen seemed insurmountable.

Determined to find a solution, Sarah dove into the world of small space storage solutions. She discovered innovative ideas from professional designers like Ciara Ephson and George Miller, who recommended taking cabinets up to the ceiling and utilizing open shelving for easy access. She learned about hidden drawers behind plinth panels and practical rolling carts that could transform her tiny space into an organized haven.

As Sarah began to implement these small kitchen storage ideas, she noticed an incredible transformation. Her countertops cleared up, making her kitchen look larger and more inviting. Each inch of her kitchen was now fully optimized, making it not only aesthetically pleasing but also highly functional. Through smart organization strategies, Sarah breathed new life into her once-chaotic kitchen, proving that even the smallest kitchens could be spacious and orderly.

Key Takeaways

• Maximizing vertical space by taking cabinets up to the ceiling can significantly increase storage potential.
• Open shelving provides easy access to frequently used items and makes the space feel lighter.
• Utilize every nook and cranny with hidden drawers and narrow gaps for optimized storage.
• Portable units like rolling carts offer flexibility and keep essentials off countertops.
• Clear countertops contribute to a more spacious and inviting kitchen atmosphere.

1. Use Magnetic Strips

Magnetic strips are a great way to save space in your kitchen. They help keep knives and metal utensils organized and within reach. This keeps your counters clear and your kitchen tidy.

You can hang these strips on walls or inside cabinet doors to use vertical space well. This is a smart move for anyone looking to declutter their kitchen. It shows how to make the most of every inch in your kitchen.

Instead of big knife blocks, magnetic strips are sleek and handy. They’re often seen in small storage closet ideas, showing their flexibility. These strips aren’t just for kitchen tools; they’re great for organizing in tight spots too.

Also, magnetic shelves and caddies are becoming common for kitchen storage. They’re priced reasonably and preferred over traditional spice racks. Adding these to your kitchen makes it both functional and stylish.

2. Install Floating Shelves

Floating shelves are a great way to add style and storage to small kitchens. They use wall space, saving floor area and looking good. You can install shelves that are about 40 inches long and 8.5 inches deep, made from thick wood.

Installing them needs careful planning and precise work. You might need to make adjustments and take detailed measurements. Using a 1/2” drill bit and a self-centering drill guide helps make sure the holes are right.

The shelves are usually placed about 20 inches off the ground. This height is good for easy access and keeps the countertop clear. The shelves are about 10 inches deep, which is enough for storing kitchen items.

Using cupboard storage ideas kitchen like custom floating shelves can change a messy kitchen into a neat one. These shelves can hold up to 150 pounds per stud, making them strong for heavy items. You can choose from many materials and finishes to match your kitchen’s style.

Add personal touches like spice racks or hidden storage to make your kitchen look and work better. Floating shelves are a smart way to organize your kitchen without losing style.

3. Hang Pots and Pans

Hanging pots and pans is a smart way to save cabinet space and make your kitchen look better. Use a pot rack or a pegboard on the wall. This lets you keep your most used cookware close while cooking. It also keeps your kitchen tidy and makes it easy to find what you need without digging through drawers.

A heavy-duty rail system can change the game in kitchen organization. Hang pots, pans, and utensils with S-hooks, so they’re easy to reach. Chef Michael Symon improved his kitchen by adding slatwall panels. He hung cookware, strainers, and more, showing how useful this method is.

If you’re short on cabinet space, a ceiling-mounted pot rack is a great option. These racks come in different sizes and can hold many pots and pans above your head. It’s especially useful if you’re trying to organize your camper organization kitchen cabinets.

Using a pegboard on a wall or as a backsplash can turn unused space into a storage area. It keeps your kitchen organized and adds a stylish look. This method is both practical and chic.

Storing copper cookware on a wall rack or kitchen rails is another smart idea. It saves space and makes your cookware a part of your kitchen decor. Remember, only keep the pans you use often to make the most of small kitchen storage.

4. Utilize Cabinet Doors

Every inch of your kitchen space is important. The inside of your cabinet doors is often overlooked but is perfect for creative storage. By using cabinet door organizers, you can keep spices, utensils, and small items hidden but within reach.

Adding racks or baskets inside the doors is a great idea for spice jars. Hooks are perfect for hanging measuring cups and spoons. Storage bins can hold smaller kitchen essentials, helping to keep your counters and drawers clear.

If you need more space, consider pull-out shelves or corner drawers. These can make things easier to see and get to. Using cabinet door organizers helps declutter your kitchen and keeps things you use often close by. This makes your kitchen both useful and stylish.

5. Add a Rolling Cart

Adding a rolling cart can boost your small kitchen’s storage. It’s ideal for kitchens under 200 square feet, offering a stylish way to increase your work area. This cart provides extra space for food prep on your countertop.

Rolling carts are super versatile. They can be a bar cart, a baking station, or a spot for snacks. You can find them in materials like wood, stainless steel, rattan, and vintage styles. They’re great for adding extra shelves for small appliances or fruits, making your kitchen both useful and attractive.

Vintage-style bar carts are now a big hit in kitchens. Matching the cart’s color to your kitchen’s theme helps it look unified. You can also customize it with DIY hacks like new colors or adjustable shelves. For example, a drop leaf design gives you more counter space but keeps the cart neat when folded.

Rolling carts are perfect for tight kitchens without space for an island. They can be easily stored away, making them a key part of managing small kitchens. This item combines practicality with style beautifully.

6. Use Stackable Bins

Make your kitchen better with stackable storage bins. They help you use every inch of cabinet and pantry space. The iDesign Linus 6-Piece Stackable Kitchen Organizer Bin Set is very popular, even though it’s often out of stock. It comes with bins of different sizes for various items.

These bins are great for keeping similar things together. This helps when you’re trying to clean up your kitchen. For eco-friendly options, the RPET Linus Cabinet/Pantry Bins set is a good choice. It has four bins perfect for storing bulk items and snacks.

These containers also make it easier to reach items in the back of deep shelves or lower cabinets. This saves time and makes finding things simpler. It helps you organizar closet and other storage areas better.

The iDesign Linus 8-Piece Stackable Kitchen Organizer Bin Set has bins of various sizes. This makes organizing easy and clear. If you like things to be visible and match, the Rosanna Pansino Collection by iDesign Large Lidded Bins is a good pick. For a stylish look, the iDesign EcoWood Natural Paulownia Wood Storage Bin with Handles is a great choice.

For better use of cabinet space, try the Classico Expandable & Stackable Cabinet Shelves in Silver. They increase storage and make things easy to see. Using these smart storage solutions helps declutter your kitchen and keeps your home tidy.

7. Maximize Under-Sink Space

Under-sink storage is often ignored in small spaces, but it can be a goldmine for organization. By using pull-out drawers, caddies, and shelves, you can make this area super useful. This keeps important items within reach and keeps everything tidy.

Consider buying three Like-It White Short Medium Modular Drawers for $30 each. They’re great for storing various items neatly. Also, small plastic bins from Target One Spot at 2/$1 are perfect for clean dish rags and kids’ washcloths.

For dishwasher tablets, Mainstay plastic canisters from Walmart are a good choice. It’s important to keep cleaning supplies safe, so think about a childproof lock for the cabinet door. Ikea’s Variera Trash Cans at $3.99 each are great for organizing kitchen laundry and plastic bags.

Don’t forget about the cabinet doors as storage spots. An over-the-door paper towel holder and an over-the-door towel bar can save lots of space. To keep items from falling off the towel bar, use eyelets and a small binder ring.

Using dividers in wide drawers instead of lower cabinets can make storage more efficient. Clear bins are also great for maximizing vertical space by making items easy to find and access. With these tips, 94% of people find tiered sliding shelves very helpful for saving space.

8. Install Pull-Out Shelves

Make your kitchen cabinets more efficient with pull-out shelves. These smart additions make reaching items easier and change how you store things in the kitchen.

Pull-out shelves are great for using space wisely in your kitchen. They cost between $50 and $90 each. This means you can boost your cabinet storage without spending a lot. Installing them takes about 4 to 6 hours, so it’s a quick upgrade.

These shelves can hold over 100 pounds with full-extension slides. So, you can easily get to heavy pots, pans, or appliances without straining. They can be made to fit any cabinet size, giving you a perfect fit for your space.

To make pull-out shelves, you use a 1×4 pine frame and a 3/4-inch birch plywood bottom. They’re finished with a durable lacquer for a nice look. It’s important to set the drawer slides and shelf right for smooth use. They’re put together with pocket screws and wood adhesives like DAP Weldwood.

Pull-out shelves not only help organize your kitchen cabinets better. They also make it easier to keep your cookware and appliances tidy and within reach. Whether you’re redoing your kitchen or just need a quick storage fix, pull-out shelves are a smart choice. They give you quick results.

9. Use Corner Shelves

Make the most of your kitchen’s space by adding corner shelves. These units help with kitchen cabinet organization, making storage better. For instance, deep corner cabinets can hold appliances, cookware, or big gadgets, keeping counters clear.

Think about using pullout shelves or a Lazy Susan for easy access to items in corners. Lazy Susans are great for using space well in corner cabinets. They make sure nothing gets lost and improve access to everything.

Corner cabinets are often pricier than regular ones but offer big benefits in looks and function. Using the space on door handles for more storage is a smart move. This way, you get more out of your kitchen.

When choosing for your corner cabinets, think about cost, durability, and style. The right shelf liners can make a big difference in keeping your kitchen tidy. Adding utensil racks and the right container sizes helps with organizing drawers better.

Corner shelves do more than store items; they make a statement in your kitchen’s design. For those looking to use every inch wisely, corner shelves are a top choice. They’re great for showing off decor or keeping dishes in order.

10. Hang a Pegboard

One of the best ways to organize your kitchen is by hanging a pegboard. It can turn a messy kitchen into a tidy space. You can put a pegboard on a wall or the side of a cabinet, fitting different kitchen layouts. It’s perfect for *camper kitchen storage ideas* too.

These pegboards are priced at $64.97 for a set. You get two white panels, 32-inch by 16-inch each, and lots of hooks. There are 6 standard, 4 U-Hooks, and 8 medium hooks. You’ll have 7 square feet of space to organize your kitchen tools. You can pick hooks in red, white, blue, or black to match your kitchen’s look.

Pegboard storage is flexible. You can move hooks and add shelves as you need. For example, the article’s author used pegboards to hang gray baskets and organize measuring cups.

Small items like cooking tools fit well in a screwdriver organizer. A custom-made shelf from a stained 1x4x8 board adds style. Adding a personal touch, like an art frame with a quote, makes your kitchen look better and stay organized.

You can also get more items to help with organization. There’s a pack of “L” and “J”-shaped hooks for $7.95, or a basket with a paper towel holder for $15.98. With a lifetime warranty and made in the USA, these pegboards are reliable and practical. They’re great for both regular and camper kitchens.

11. Add a Shelf Above the Sink

Adding an over-the-sink shelf is a smart move for small kitchens. It helps keep things tidy and organized. You can store dish soap, sponges, and more right above your sink.

Reclaimed wood floating shelves are stylish and practical. They can hold up to 100 lbs and fit easily in your kitchen. These shelves are about $99, making them a budget-friendly choice.

These shelves use hidden brackets for a sleek look and strength. They’re quick to set up, usually in 2-3 weeks. You can pair them with Hogla bins for extra storage. These bins cost between $11.99 and $14.99 each.

An over-the-sink shelf adds a useful spot for daily items and saves counter space. It makes your kitchen look bigger and more organized. This is a clever way to store things without taking up too much room.

12. Utilize Window Sills

Make the most of your kitchen space by turning window sills into useful storage spots. This way, you can enjoy natural light and keep your kitchen looking great and organized. There are many small kitchen storage ideas that focus on this often-missed area.

For example, you can use window sills to grow herbs, adding fresh ingredients and greenery to your kitchen. Putting vibrant flower vases there can make your kitchen bright and colorful. Using attractive jars for utensils or stylish cutting boards also looks good and is practical.

Adding wooden accents to window sills can bring warmth and a rustic look, which is popular in 10% of kitchen styles. You might also go for a modern look, which is in 5% of the ideas. For a unique touch, consider Boho style decor, also in 5% of the suggestions.

These tips go beyond just making your kitchen look good. Window sills can hold cookbooks, making them a handy way to store items. By using these ideas, your kitchen will be more organized, efficient, and fun to be in.

13. Install a Fold-Down Table

A fold-down table is a great solution for small kitchens. It gives you a work surface or dining area that folds away when not needed. This way, you can save space without giving up important features.

Need to have dinner or bake on a whim? A fold-down table is perfect for any kitchen. It’s not just a camper closet storage idea; it keeps your kitchen tidy. With small homes having tiny kitchens, every bit of space matters.

These tables are great for those who need flexible furniture. Getting a fold-down table is a wise choice for anyone wanting to make the most of their space. It makes cooking easier and more fun.

14. Add Drawer Dividers

To keep your kitchen drawers tidy, consider adding drawer dividers. This DIY project has been a hit, with over 20,000 shares. Making your own dividers is affordable, costing under $10.

For this project, we used 1/4″ thick Poplar Craft Board. It’s strong and won’t break the bank. We bought 6 pieces for $8.76, making sure they fit perfectly in your drawer.

Getting the measurements right is key. The big drawer is 16″ x 20-5/8″ x 3½” inside, and the small one is 14-15/16″ x 20″ x 1¾”. Always remember: measure twice, cut once.

To build these dividers, you’ll need a measuring tape, sanding block, jig saw, drill or screwdriver, and a Ryobi Jig Saw. An 18-Volt ONE+ AirStrike 18-Gauge Cordless Brad Nailer came in handy for securing the dividers. We used 1″ brad nails and ¾” brad nails for different parts.

After setting up the dividers, use WD-40 and open and close the drawer a few times. This makes sure it works smoothly. These dividers have stayed in great shape for five years now.

Drawer dividers aren’t just for the kitchen. They can also help with small closet storage. By organizing your drawers, you keep everything in its place. This way, you can find things easily and avoid clutter.

15. Use Vertical Space

Using vertical space is a great way to make a small kitchen bigger. Tall cabinets, floating shelves, and wall-mounted racks are some ways to use more space. These solutions help you make the most of your kitchen area.

Vertical storage can really help organize your kitchen cabinets. Tall cabinets are perfect for storing things you don’t use often. This keeps your countertops clean and tidy.

Open shelving adds both storage and style to your kitchen. You can also use wall-mounted racks for hanging utensils, pots, and pans. This makes everything easy to reach when you need it.

For small spaces, vertical racks and shelves are great for storing wine and glasses. This frees up counter and cabinet space. Narrow pullout cabinets near the fridge or stove are great for oils, herbs, and wine bottles.

Hanging pots and pans on walls saves cabinet space and looks good. Pegboards and hooks keep utensils in order. Tray and baking sheet storage in shallow cabinets makes things easy to find. These ideas help keep your kitchen organized and clutter-free.

16. Store Items Above Cabinets

The space above your cabinets is perfect for extra storage. It helps declutter your kitchen and uses space that would otherwise go to waste. Above cabinet storage is great for small kitchens or when you have more cookware from gifts like birthdays and Christmas.

Think about these declutter kitchen ideas to make the most of the space:

1. Use baskets or bins to keep things tidy and hidden. This works well for storing bowls, serving dishes, and kitchen tools you don’t use often.

2. Add style with a simple color scheme or display plants, vases, or candle holders. But don’t fill the space too much. Darla DeMorrow recommends using a few plants or decor items for a balanced look.

3. Consider turning the space into a bookshelf for cookbooks. Lay the books flat for a neat and useful camper organization kitchen cabinets idea.

Experts like Leslie Lehr and Ben Soreff say it’s important to check these storage spots often. Get rid of things you don’t use, measure the area for new storage, and think about changing your cabinets for better organization, like pull-out drawers.

Using above cabinet storage well makes your kitchen more functional and looks better. Whether you choose decorative or practical storage, these tips will keep your kitchen tidy and organized.

For more ideas on improving your cabinet space, see our sections on magnetic strips, floating shelves, and more.

17. Use Over-the-Sink Cutting Boards

Over-the-sink cutting boards are a great way to save space in small kitchens. They turn the sink into a prep area, giving you more room for cutting and preparing food. This is a top small kitchen storage idea that really helps use your space well.

These boards make moving food from the board to pots easy, keeping food fresh and tasty. They also make cleaning up easier with built-in chutes that go right to the sink. This makes them a smart choice for kitchen organization tips.

It’s important to clean and dry these boards often to make them last longer. Use different boards for different foods to avoid mixing flavors. Following smart food prep tips, like preparing food in batches, can also make your kitchen work better.

Using an over-the-sink cutting board lets you do more at once, cutting down on the need for extra utensils. This helps keep your kitchen tidy and makes the most of limited space. It’s a smart addition to any kitchen.

In short, adding over-the-sink cutting boards to your kitchen is a smart move. It expands your countertop space, making cooking easier and your kitchen neater.

18. Hang a Stair Basket

Using a stair basket is a smart way to organize your kitchen cabinets. You can hang it on a hook near the stairs or on the balusters. This spot is perfect for storing items that you use often and need to move between floors.

Stair baskets are great for small storage spaces. They’re perfect for keeping things like kitchen towels, cleaning supplies, or pantry items tidy. They make your kitchen look better and work better, adding style and practicality to your home.

Adding a stair basket is a simple yet effective way to improve your kitchen. It goes well with other ideas like using corner shelves and a fold-down table. This makes your kitchen chores easier and more fun.