Kitchen Storage Solutions: HOW TO Maximise Space & Stay Organised

Is your kitchen feeling cluttered? Struggling to find space for all your cookware, utensils, and pantry staples? You’re not alone! The kitchen is the heart of the home, but without the right storage solutions, it can quickly become chaotic.

With the right tools and organisation techniques, you can maximise space, keep everything accessible, and maintain a clutter-free kitchen. In this guide, we’ll explore practical storage solutions and must-have products to make your kitchen more efficient and stylish.

Just so you know, some of the links in this post are affiliate links, which means I may earn a small commission—at no extra cost to you—if you make a purchase through them.

Common Kitchen Storage Problems

Before diving into solutions, let’s identify some of the most common kitchen storage challenges:

• Limited cabinet space – Not enough room for cookware and dishes.
• Cluttered countertops – Small appliances and utensils taking up valuable space.
• Deep, hard-to-reach cabinets – Items get lost or forgotten.
• Pantry disorganisation – Spices, dry goods, and snacks in chaos.
• Lack of dedicated storage for utensils, appliances, or spices.

If any of these sound familiar, don’t worry—we’ve got storage solutions to help!

Kitchen Storage Solutions & Product Recommendations

1. Maximising Cabinet Space

If your kitchen cabinets always feel overcrowded, it’s time to make the most of your vertical space. Instead of piling dishes, cookware, and food items on top of each other, consider these clever storage solutions to double your storage capacity.

Stackable Shelves & Risers

Stackable shelves and risers are a game-changer for increasing cabinet storage. These simple yet effective solutions create extra layers within your cabinets, allowing you to store more while keeping everything neatly organised and accessible.

• Under the Sink: Use stackable shelves to organise cleaning products, sponges, and bin bags without creating a cluttered mess.
• Dishes & Glassware: Separate plates, bowls, and mugs to prevent stacking them too high and risking breakages.
• Pantry Organisation: Place risers in your pantry to keep canned goods, jars, and spices visible and easy to reach.
• Baking Essentials: Store mixing bowls on one level and baking trays underneath for an efficient setup.

💡 Top Tip: Choose adjustable or expandable shelves so you can customise them to fit your cabinet dimensions perfectly.

Pull-Out Drawers & Organisers

Deep cabinets can be a nightmare when it comes to retrieving items—things get pushed to the back and forgotten, making it difficult to keep everything organised. Pull-out drawers and organisers are a fantastic way to maximise space while keeping all your kitchen essentials within easy reach.

• Pots & Pans Storage – Install sturdy pull-out shelves in deep base cabinets to keep heavy pots, pans, and lids neatly stored. No more stacking and unstacking to find what you need.
• Pantry Pull-Outs – Convert deep pantry shelves into pull-out organisers to keep canned goods, dry food, and spices visible and accessible.
• Under-Sink Storage – Use sliding drawers for cleaning supplies, making it easy to grab what you need without knocking over bottles.
• Cutlery & Utensils – Slim pull-out organisers can house cooking tools, knives, and baking accessories in an easy-to-reach way.
• Small Appliances – Store blenders, mixers, and coffee machines in deep cabinets with pull-out platforms to avoid cluttered worktops.

💡 Top Tip: Look for soft-close pull-out drawers to prevent slamming and keep your kitchen quiet and stylish.

Under-Shelf Baskets

If your kitchen cabinets have wasted vertical space between shelves, under-shelf baskets are a brilliant way to add extra storage without the need for permanent fixtures. These clever baskets simply slide onto existing shelves, instantly creating a second layer of storage for smaller items.

• Mug Storage: If you’re short on cabinet space, under-shelf baskets are perfect for holding mugs while keeping your cups and plates below neatly stacked.
• Food Wraps & Foils: Store cling film, foil, and parchment paper in an easy-to-reach spot rather than stuffing them in a messy drawer.
• Snack Organisation: Great for keeping packets of crisps, cereal bars, or small snack bags tidy in the pantry.
• Spice Storage: Create a dedicated section for spice jars, freeing up space on your main shelves.
• Small Kitchen Tools: Keep frequently used utensils like measuring spoons, whisks, or peelers in an accessible spot.

💡 Top Tip: Choose baskets with a sturdy metal frame for durability, and ensure they have a smooth glide to avoid scratching your shelves.

2. Optimising Pantry Organisation 

A well-organised pantry can make meal prep easier, reduce food waste, and help you keep track of what you have on hand. When everything has a designated place, you’ll spend less time searching for ingredients and more time enjoying your kitchen. By implementing smart storage solutions, you can create a functional and visually appealing pantry that works for your needs.

Clear Storage Containers for Bulk Goods

One of the best ways to streamline your pantry storage is by using clear storage containers for bulk goods. Not only do they keep ingredients fresh and dry, but they also create a uniform, clutter-free look in your cupboards.

• Dry Goods: Store flour, sugar, rice, pasta, oats, and lentils to keep them fresh and prevent spills.
• Baking Ingredients: Keep baking soda, cocoa powder, and different types of flour organised and easy to measure.
• Cereals & Snacks: Use larger containers for cereal, nuts, dried fruit, and crisps to maintain freshness and avoid bulky packaging.
• Tea & Coffee: Store loose-leaf tea, coffee beans, or pods in clear canisters for a tidy beverage station.
• Spices & Herbs: Small clear jars with labelled lids can keep your spice rack organised and easy to navigate.

💡 Top Tip: Label each container with the product name and expiration date using chalkboard stickers or a label maker. This keeps your pantry tidy and ensures ingredients stay fresh.

Over-the-Door Pantry Organisers

If you’re short on pantry space, don’t overlook one of the most underutilised storage areas—the back of the pantry door! Over-the-door organisers are a fantastic way to maximise storage without taking up shelf space, keeping frequently used items within easy reach.

• Spice Storage: Arrange spice jars neatly, keeping them visible and within reach for quick cooking.
• Snack Organisation: Perfect for storing grab-and-go snacks like cereal bars, crisps, and dried fruit packs.
• Condiment & Sauce Bottles: Use sturdy shelves to keep smaller bottles of oils, dressings, and sauces organised.
• Tea & Coffee Station: Store tea bags, coffee pods, and sugar packets in easy-access compartments.
• Baking Essentials: Keep cupcake liners, food colouring, and decorating tools all in one place.

💡 Top Tip: Choose an organiser with clear pockets or wire shelves for easy visibility, so you can quickly spot what you need. If your pantry door is too narrow, consider a slim, wall-mounted version inside your pantry.

Lazy Susans for Deep Shelves

Deep pantry shelves can quickly become a black hole where items get lost and forgotten. A Lazy Susan (turntable) is a simple yet highly effective solution to keep everything visible and accessible, so you never have to dig through cluttered shelves again.

• Condiments & Sauces: Store bottles of ketchup, mustard, soy sauce, and salad dressings so they’re always within reach.
• Cooking Oils & Vinegars: Prevent spills and make it easier to grab the oil you need while cooking.
• Jams & Spreads: Keep peanut butter, honey, and jam in one convenient spot.
• Canned Goods: Organise tinned food like soups, beans, and vegetables without losing them at the back of deep shelves.
• Baking Essentials: Store vanilla extract, food colouring, and small baking ingredients together for easy access.

💡 Top Tip: Choose a divided Lazy Susan for grouping different items or one with a raised edge to keep bottles from tipping over. Opt for a two-tier turntable to make the most of vertical space in tall cabinets!

Can Racks & Dispensers

Canned goods can quickly become disorganised in pantries, making it hard to see what you have. A can rack or dispenser is a space-saving solution that keeps tins neatly arranged, visible, and easy to access.

• Stackable Storage: Use tiered racks to make canned soups, vegetables, and beans easy to see and grab.
• FIFO (First In, First Out) System: A dispenser allows cans to roll forward, ensuring older items are used first.
• Maximised Pantry Space: Slim designs help free up shelf space while keeping cans upright and organised.
• Easy Access: No more knocking over stacks of tins—each can has its own designated slot.

💡 Top Tip: Choose an adjustable or expandable rack to accommodate different can sizes and maximise storage efficiency.

Pull-Out Trash & Recycling Bins

A visible trash bin can make a kitchen feel cluttered and take up valuable floor space. A pull-out trash and recycling system provides a sleek, hidden solution by tucking bins away inside a cabinet while keeping waste easily accessible.

• Hidden & Discreet: Keeps rubbish and recycling out of sight, maintaining a clean and organised kitchen.
• Space-Saving: Frees up floor space, making small kitchens feel more open and less crowded.
• Odour Control: Helps contain smells better than exposed bins, keeping your kitchen fresher.
• Dual Compartments: Many pull-out systems feature separate bins for waste and recycling, making sorting effortless.

💡 Top Tip: Opt for a soft-close pull-out system to reduce noise and prevent bins from slamming shut. Look for models with removable bins for easy cleaning.

3. Decluttering Countertops

A clutter-free countertop not only makes your kitchen look more spacious and tidy but also improves functionality, making it easier to cook and clean. The key is to maximise vertical space and find smart storage solutions for everyday essentials. Here are three practical ways to clear your counters while keeping everything within easy reach.

Wall-Mounted Racks for Utensils

Kitchen drawers can quickly become overcrowded with cooking tools, making it hard to find what you need when preparing meals. A wall-mounted utensil rack is a space-saving solution that keeps your most-used tools visible and within reach while freeing up valuable drawer space.

• Cooking Utensils: Hang spatulas, ladles, tongs, and whisks so they’re always easy to grab while cooking.
• Measuring Spoons & Cups: Keep baking essentials organised and accessible by hanging them on hooks near your prep area.
• Kitchen Scissors & Peelers: Store frequently used tools in one place to avoid rummaging through messy drawers.
• Tea Towels & Oven Mitts: Add extra hooks for quick access to hand towels and heat-resistant gloves.

💡 Top Tip: Install a rail with S-hooks to customise your setup and create a functional, stylish display. Choose a stainless steel rack for a modern look or a wooden one for a rustic touch.

Magnetic Knife Holders

Bulky knife blocks take up counter space and can harbour bacteria in hidden crevices. A wall-mounted magnetic knife holder is a sleek and hygienic alternative that keeps knives sharp, safe, and within easy reach.

• Chef’s Knives & Paring Knives: Store your most-used knives securely while preventing dull blades from rubbing against each other.
• Kitchen Shears & Peelers: Attach metal-handled tools to keep them organised and accessible.
• Small Metal Spice Jars: If space allows, use the magnetic strip to hold lightweight spice tins for a compact storage solution.

💡 Top Tip: Install the magnetic strip away from heat and moisture to preserve the longevity of your knives. For a unique look, opt for a wood-covered magnetic strip that blends seamlessly with your kitchen décor.

Hanging Fruit Baskets

Keeping fresh produce on the counter can take up space and lead to bruising when piled in bowls. A hanging fruit basket provides better air circulation while freeing up valuable workspace.

• Bananas, Apples & Citrus Fruits: Store these at eye level to encourage healthy snacking.
• Onions, Garlic & Potatoes: Keep root vegetables separate from fruits to extend their shelf life.
• Snack Organisation: Use one tier for easy-to-grab snack packs, such as dried fruit or nuts.

💡 Top Tip: Opt for a three-tiered hanging basket to separate different produce types and prevent overripening. For a modern twist, choose a wall-mounted wire basket system instead of a traditional hanging design.

Wall-Mounted Pot & Pan Racks

Pots and pans take up a lot of cabinet space and can be difficult to stack neatly. A wall-mounted pot and pan rack provides a practical and stylish solution, keeping cookware easily accessible while freeing up storage.

• Maximises Cabinet Space: Creates extra room inside cabinets by moving bulky pots and pans to a dedicated wall rack.
• Easy Access: Keeps frequently used cookware within reach, making meal prep more efficient.
• Stylish & Functional: Adds a rustic, industrial, or modern touch to your kitchen, depending on the rack design.
• Multi-Purpose Storage: Some racks include extra hooks for hanging lids, utensils, or even small kitchen towels.

💡 Top Tip: Install your rack near the stove or prep area for convenience. Choose a sturdy, weight-bearing design to support heavier cookware like cast iron pans.

Spice Rack Organisers

Digging through a cluttered cupboard for the right spice can disrupt even the best cooking flow. A spice rack organiser—whether wall-mounted, rotating, or tiered—keeps your spices visible, tidy, and within easy reach.

• Wall-Mounted Racks: Free up cabinet space by displaying your spices on the wall in neatly arranged rows.
• Rotating Racks: Use a spinning design on countertops or inside cupboards to access all your spices quickly.
• Tiered Shelf Inserts: Ideal for drawers or cabinets, tiered organisers elevate jars so labels are always visible.
• Customisable Layouts: Choose designs that can expand or adjust based on your spice collection’s size.

Paper Towel Holders (Under Cabinet or Wall-Mounted)

Paper towel rolls are essential in the kitchen but can take up precious counter space if left loose or in a bulky holder. A wall-mounted or under-cabinet paper towel holder is a sleek and practical way to keep them close to hand without the clutter.

• Saves Counter Space: Frees up valuable worktop area, keeping your kitchen looking clean and uncluttered.
• Convenient Access: Mount near the sink or prep zone for quick clean-ups while cooking or washing up.
• Discreet Design: Under-cabinet holders keep the roll tucked away, blending seamlessly into your kitchen setup.
• Secure & Stable: Prevents the roll from sliding around or toppling over, unlike freestanding versions.

💡 Top Tip: Choose a holder with a tension arm or one-handed tear feature for added convenience—especially useful during messy moments in the kitchen!

Coffee Station Organisers

A cluttered coffee corner can take the joy out of your morning brew. Coffee station organisers help create a tidy, dedicated space for all your essentials – making your daily routine smoother and more enjoyable.

• Pod & Capsule Storage: Use drawers or holders designed specifically for coffee pods to keep them sorted and within reach.
• Mug Holders: Display your favourite mugs on a rack or hooks for easy access and a touch of personality.
• Sugar, Tea & Spoon Storage: Keep jars of sugar, tea bags, stirrers, and teaspoons neatly organised in caddies or trays.
• Compact & Stylish: Choose stackable or space-saving organisers that suit small countertops or fit beneath your coffee machine.

💡 Top Tip: Add a small tray or basket to group everything together visually – it keeps the space tidy and makes it easy to clean or relocate if needed.

Expandable Dish Drying Racks

Washing up by hand doesn’t have to mean sacrificing valuable counter space. An expandable dish drying rack offers a flexible solution – adjusting to your needs while keeping your kitchen organised and efficient.

• Custom Fit: Expand or contract the rack to suit your sink or available counter space.
• More Drying Room: Extra space when you need it—for big family meals, batch cooking, or hosting.
• Built-In Compartments: Many models include slots for plates, cutlery holders, and sections for cups and bowls.
• Collapsible for Storage: Folds down easily when not in use, ideal for small kitchens or minimalist setups.

💡 Top Tip: Choose a rack with a built-in drainage spout to direct water back into the sink and keep your countertops dry. Stainless steel or bamboo versions add a sleek, durable touch.

4. Smart Drawer Organisation

Drawers can quickly become a jumbled mess, making it difficult to find what you need. With the right organisers, you can create designated spaces for utensils, cutlery, and spices, ensuring everything is tidy and easy to access.

Adjustable Drawer Dividers

Messy drawers filled with tangled utensils and random gadgets can make meal prep frustrating. Adjustable drawer dividers help create compartments, ensuring everything stays in place.

• Cooking Utensils: Keep spatulas, tongs, and whisks neatly separated for easy access.
• Measuring Tools: Designate a section for measuring spoons and cups to keep them from getting lost.
• Baking Accessories: Organise pastry brushes, rolling pins, and piping tips in their own space.
• Small Kitchen Gadgets: Sort items like peelers, can openers, and bottle openers so they’re always within reach.

💡 Top Tip: Look for dividers with non-slip grips to prevent shifting when opening and closing drawers. Opt for bamboo dividers for a stylish and eco-friendly choice.

Expandable Cutlery Trays

Cutlery drawers can get cluttered quickly, especially if the tray doesn’t fit properly. Expandable cutlery trays adjust to your drawer size, creating a perfect layout for organising knives, forks, spoons, and more.

• Standard Cutlery: Keep everyday forks, knives, and spoons neatly arranged in individual sections.
• Serving Utensils: Dedicate a space for larger utensils like salad servers and cake slicers.
• Reusable Straws & Chopsticks: Prevent them from rolling around by giving them a designated section.
• Kid-Friendly Cutlery: Separate children’s spoons and forks for easy access.

💡 Top Tip: Choose a tray with deep compartments for bulkier items and a removable section for flexible storage options.

Custom Spice Drawer Inserts

A disorganised spice drawer can make cooking stressful when you can’t find the seasoning you need. Custom spice drawer inserts keep jars neatly arranged and easy to see at a glance.

• Everyday Spices: Organise frequently used seasonings like salt, pepper, and garlic powder within arm’s reach.
• Baking Spices: Keep cinnamon, nutmeg, and vanilla extract together for quick access during baking.
• International Flavours: Arrange spices by cuisine—such as Italian herbs, Indian masalas, or Asian seasonings—for effortless meal prep.
• Custom Labels: Use uniform jars with clear labels to create a sleek, professional look.

💡 Top Tip: Opt for a tiered spice drawer insert so labels remain visible, or go for a drawer-mounted rack to save space.

Lid Organisers for Pots & Pans

Pan lids are notoriously awkward to store—they slide around, get lost at the back of cupboards, or clutter up valuable drawer space. A lid organiser solves the problem by keeping lids upright, tidy, and easy to grab.

• Upright Storage: Holds lids vertically so you can quickly find the size you need without sorting through a pile.
• Cabinet & Drawer Friendly: Fits neatly inside cupboards or deep drawers, making the most of available space.
• Protects Lids & Cookware: Prevents scratches and damage by stopping lids from banging into each other or your pans.
• Adjustable Slots: Many organisers come with movable dividers to accommodate lids of different sizes and styles.

💡 Top Tip: Use alongside a pan organiser rack to keep both lids and pans in one tidy, easy-to-access space. For a no-drill option, choose a freestanding or tension-mounted organiser.

5. Utilising Vertical Space

When cabinet and drawer space is limited, looking upwards can reveal plenty of unused storage opportunities. By making the most of your walls, ceilings, and open spaces, you can keep essentials organised while maintaining a stylish, clutter-free kitchen.

Ceiling-Mounted Pot Racks

Pots and pans are some of the bulkiest kitchen items, often taking up valuable cabinet space. A ceiling-mounted pot rack provides an elegant and practical solution, keeping cookware accessible while freeing up storage.

• Everyday Pots & Pans: Hang frequently used cookware for easy grab-and-go access.
• Cast Iron & Heavy Pans: Store weighty pieces securely without overloading cabinet shelves.
• Lids & Accessories: Use additional hooks to keep lids, strainers, and other kitchen tools organised.
• Decorative Touch: Choose a rack with a stylish metal or wooden finish to enhance your kitchen’s aesthetic.

💡 Top Tip: Install your pot rack above a kitchen island or near the stove for convenience. Ensure it’s securely anchored to support the weight of your cookware.

Adhesive Hooks for Mugs & Tools

Blank wall space is often overlooked, but adhesive hooks can turn it into valuable storage without the need for drilling or permanent fixtures.

• Mug Storage: Hang coffee mugs under cabinets to free up shelf space and add a decorative touch.
• Cooking Tools: Keep spatulas, ladles, and tongs within easy reach by mounting hooks near the stove.
• Measuring Cups & Spoons: Organise essential baking tools where they’re easy to grab.
• Pan Lids & Cutting Boards: Store flat items against the wall to prevent clutter inside cabinets.

💡 Top Tip: Opt for removable adhesive hooks for a renter-friendly solution. Choose stainless steel or wooden designs to match your kitchen style.

Floating Shelves for Decor & Essentials

Floating shelves provide a perfect balance of function and style, offering extra storage while enhancing your kitchen’s visual appeal.

• Spices & Condiments: Arrange frequently used spices in a decorative display for easy access.
• Cookbooks & Recipes: Showcase your favourite cookbooks where you can grab them while cooking.
• Dish-ware & Glassware: Store stylish plates, bowls, or wine glasses for a modern, open-shelf look.
• Decor & Greenery: Add warmth with potted herbs, framed artwork, or small decorative items.

💡 Top Tip: Use sturdy floating shelves with hidden brackets for a seamless look. Arrange items by colour or theme to maintain a neat and aesthetically pleasing space.

6. Hidden & Multi-Use Storage Hacks

In a small or busy kitchen, every bit of space counts. Hidden and multi-functional storage solutions can help you maximise every inch, keeping your kitchen efficient and clutter-free while maintaining flexibility for your needs.

Rolling Carts for Small Kitchens

When cabinet and counter space is limited, a rolling cart offers a versatile, mobile storage solution that can be moved as needed.

• Extra Pantry Storage: Use it for dry goods, canned foods, or snack organisation.
• Baking Station: Store baking essentials like flour, sugar, measuring tools, and mixing bowls in one convenient spot.
• Coffee or Beverage Bar: Set up a coffee station with a coffee maker, mugs, and tea essentials that can be wheeled away when not in use.
• Prep & Serving Area: Keep utensils, plates, and ingredients handy when preparing meals or entertaining guests.

💡 Top Tip: Opt for a slim, multi-tiered cart that can slide into small gaps between cabinets or appliances when not in use.

Foldable Kitchen Islands

For kitchens lacking counter space, a foldable kitchen island provides an extra prep surface when needed and tucks away effortlessly when not in use.

• Meal Prep Station: Expand your workspace when cooking large meals.
• Dining & Serving Area: Use as a temporary breakfast bar or buffet table for guests.
• Extra Storage: Many foldable islands include built-in shelves or drawers for added organisation.
• Compact Design: Easily folds against a wall or slides under a countertop when not needed.

💡 Top Tip: Choose a folding island with wheels for even greater flexibility, allowing you to move it anywhere in the kitchen.

Pro Tips for Maintaining an Organised Kitchen 

• Declutter regularly – Get rid of unused or expired items every few months. 

• Label storage containers – Helps with easy identification and keeps your pantry tidy. 

• Keep frequently used items within reach – Store daily essentials in accessible locations. 

• Follow a “one in, one out” rule – Prevent clutter by removing an old item for every new one you bring in. 

FINAL THOUGHTS

A well-organised kitchen isn’t just about aesthetics—it makes cooking more enjoyable and efficient. By incorporating these storage solutions, you can maximise your space, reduce clutter, and create a more functional kitchen. 

What’s your biggest kitchen storage challenge? Let us know in the comments!

*Just so you know, some of the links in this post are affiliate links, which means I may earn a small commission—at no extra cost to you—if you make a purchase through them.

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