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This blog post is all about the best small kitchen organization ideas!
As someone who has spent all my adult life in a small city apartment, I can relate to the never-ending search for creative storage options and affordable space-saving solutions. When it comes to a tiny kitchen, it’s so important to approach design and decor smartly, making the best use of all the square feet you have available.
Good kitchen organization is an absolute must as this space gets used multiple times a day and it’s always filled with appliances, utensils, decor, and so much more! Setting up your kitchen so that it’s easy to maintain clean and tidy will not only make it more functional but also turn it into the heart of the home.
No matter how small your space is, there are plenty of hacks you can use to maximize your storage and make the most of your counter space. So…get settled and let’s jump into the ideas you need for the perfectly organized kitchen of your dreams!
Table of Contents
- SMALL KITCHEN ORGANIZATION – CABINETS & SHELVES
- SMALL KITCHEN ORGANIZATION – DRAWERS
- SMALL KITCHEN ORGANIZATION – COUNTER SPACE
- SMALL KITCHEN ORGANIZATION – PANTRY
- SMALL KITCHEN ORGANIZATION – WALLS
- SMALL KITCHEN ORGANIZATION – MISCELLANEOUS
Small Kitchen Organization – Cabinets & Shelves
Photo credit: @zen_spaces_by_sarah
1. Install Shelf Risers To Increase Cabinet Space
The vertical space in your small cabinet is valuable real estate you should take full advantage of! I have used shelf risers in every kitchen I have had since college and they are a total lifesaver to double your storage space in just a few seconds!
A must-have for small kitchen organization in my opinion.
Photo credit: @classiccabinetry
2. Use pull-out drawers in cabinets
If you have a deep cabinet with just a few shelves, consider replacing them with pull-out drawers.
Not only do they look great and upscale, but they can also help you fit more items within the same space and keep everything readily available and visible. Having something in your line of sight is the best way to ensure you’ll end up using it!
Photo credit: @theorganizedorange
3. Add lazy Susans in deep or corner cabinets
If your small kitchen has awkward cabinets that it difficult to reach places, make your life easier by investing in a few lazy Susans.
These revolving trays will give you easier access to your kitchen supplies while looking great. I love the wooden ones but for a cheaper option, you can also find them in clear plastic.
Photo credit: @primspace
4. Hang an over-door organizer inside your kitchen cabinets.
Your cabinet door is the perfect hiding place for a hidden organizer! Over-door racks require basically no effort to set up and can be a game-changer for your small kitchen organization!
Bonus tip: make sure to measure your cabinet before investing in these pieces. You need to make sure you will still be able to fully close your cabinet door even when the organizer is full.
Photo credit: @margaretsdaughter_
5. Mount under-cabinet hooks for coffee mugs
If you’re anything like me, then you believe that there can never be enough cute coffee mugs in your kitchen. Luckily for us, beautiful coffee mugs are everywhere. Unlikely for us, they are a nightmare to store.
Under-cabinet hooks are the best way to display your mug collection while keeping it out of the way. This hack will also give you extra space in your cabinets, which usually comes at a premium in a small kitchen!
Photo credit: @gettingitdoneorganizing
6. Use An Adjustable Pot/Pan Organizer
A pan organizer needs to be part of your small kitchen essentials. Especially if it’s an adjustable one!
These pieces will help you keep on top of your pan collection, making it easier to preserve your pieces and keep them neatly stored in your cabinets.
Photo credit: @riemerkitchens
7. Add tension rods to store cutting boards vertically
Tension rods make for a very affordable way to store cutting boards and baking sheets vertically. All you need is a few tension rods to section your cabinet and you’ll end up with quick and easy tall compartments ready to be used.
Photo credit: @kb.abode
8. Use stackable Tupperware
If you’re working with limited space, stackable items are set to be your best friends. Stackable Tupperware in particular will help you keep your container collection organized and save up on the space needed to store it.
An added benefit: no more mismatched sets or random lost lids! Time to leave that headache in the past.
Photo credit: @thehomediary_
9. Install a spice rack on a cabinet door
Don’t let your cabinet door be an unused space. I am such a fan of these door-mounted spice racks! If you have always struggled with finding a large enough space to store my huge variety of bottles, this could be the perfect solution.
I also love how modern and sleek a rack like this looks. A great match for a minimalist kitchen for instance.
Photo credit: @fromgrittopearl
10. Add pull-out shelves
If you have low cabinets, it can be useful to install a few pull-out shelves. They will be easy to reach and will avoid you having to bend down to try and find something in the back of your floor-level cabinet.
For a more curated look, you can opt for shelves that match in texture, color, and material the build of your kitchen cabinets. Alternatively, wood is relatively neutral and can be a good match for all kitchens.
Photo credit: @stickwithnickla
11. Add dish racks to the cabinet above your sink
I love dish racks to organize my favorite sets of dishes. They make sure finer ceramics and china don’t get ruined from friction of improper storage.
They are also a fun way to replace a traditional dish pile and display some of your favorite designs. I think there is nothing better than integrating functional pieces as part of the decor.
Small Kitchen Organization – Drawer Space
Photo credit: @homewithmrshomebody
12. Use drawer dividers for utensils
The best way to turn your kitchen drawers from a jumbled mess into a neat collection of tools is by using dividers. They are affordable, quick to install, and will make it easy to find your most-used items in a matter of seconds.
Time to leave behind the black holes of unorganized mess!
Photo credit: @organizedbydanielle
13. Add small bins inside drawers
If you have plenty of random kitchen items stuffed in your drawers, use small clear bins to organize them. They look modern and are a very budget-friendly option for drawer organization.
They are great for storing pieces like dishwasher pods, dish sponges, peelers, or loose trash bags.
Photo credit: @cotswoldinterior
14. Insert a knife block drawer insert
One of the true signs of adulthood is investing in high-quality kitchen knives. The best solution to keep your precious tools in shape and organized is with a knife block insert in your drawer.
You can choose a simple wood design or go a little bit fancier with a piece that has added padding for the blades.
Photo credit: @sortandstore
15. Use an adjustable drawer tray
If you’re still at an early stage of your small kitchen organization project, it can be a good idea to invest in an adjustable drawer tray.
You’ll be able to organize all your small items and the piece can adapt to a new storage space if you decide to rearrange your decor at a later stage.
Photo credit: @minimizetothemax
16. Label drawer insides for quick access
The best way to set up a small kitchen organization that stands saily usage is to assign each piece to a designated place.
I find it super helpful to label my containers and drawers. This ensures that no matter how busy you are, you won’t have to spend any time figuring out where everything is supposed to go.
Photo credit: @hardyinteriordesign
17. Add deep drawer organizers
Deep drawers tend to be a bit more challenging to organize. However, they are the perfect place for larger pieces like trays, baking sheets, or oven dishes.
All you need is tall dividers meant for deeper drawers. They will keep your pieces organized and protected as you open and close the drawer.
Small Kitchen Organization – Counter Space
18. Install magnetic strips to store your knives on the wall
A magnetic knife strip is one of the easiest ways to save drawer and counter space as it allows you to store all your knives directly on the wall.
It not only looks stylish and modern, but it will also keep your knives readily available when you cook. Win-win solution!
Photo credit: @woodfinshome
19. Use a utensil holder for cooking tools
If you have some leftover counter space or a small kitchen island, consider using a utensil crock to keep your most-used items within reach at all times.
Don’t be afraid to go for an oversized option. It can make for a functional accent piece on your counter, especially if you opt for a modern, sleek design.
20. Opt for stackable small appliances
Small kitchen appliances will be your best friends when it comes to small kitchen organization. Make sure to choose the “mini” version of your favorite appliances (this mini food processor from Amazon is a great example of what I mean!).
You can invest in a few full-size pieces for the items you use often and then downside the rest to optimize the space.
Photo credit: @homedecormagic
21. Keep a multi-level shelf for spice jars
Tiered spice shelves look stunning on a counter. They perfectly embody the core principle of small kitchen organization: combining utility and style!
Proudly display your collection of spices taking advantage of the vertical storage a multi-level shelf offers. You can invest in a matching set of spice bottles if you want a cohesive design. Alternatively, mix and match different bottles for a more eclectic, casual look.
22. Add a counter extension
If you don’t have a lot of space on your counters for food preparation, you can always invest in a counter extension. These pieces can be custom-made but there are also plenty of affordable options available online.
For instance, I love the idea of hiding some additional counter space behind a faux drawer. So genius!
Photo credit: @livingawilderlife
23. Install floating shelves
Open shelves are a great option to transform a blank wall into additional vertical storage. You can transform your empty wall space into a cookbook display, dishware storage, small appliance container, and so much more.
The one thing you need to be careful of is that shelf space requires some maintenance. You can either keep things more minimal or you’ll need to pay attention not to create visual clutter.
24. Get a sink-fitting cutting board
Your kitchen sink can easily double as counter space with the proper small kitchen organization. All you need is an oversized butcher board that can easily transform your sink into a functional prep area.
The best option is to choose an adjustable board so you can easily store it away once you are done using it!
Photo credit: @av.home
25. Create a space-friendly coffee bar
Even if you’re not working with much space, you shouldn’t give up the pleasure of having a coffee corner. Invest in a small coffee maker and a cute tray to keep your coffee/tea time essentials well-organized.
You can also add a wall-mounted coffee capsule container if you need additional space for your supplies.
Photo credit: @thetruehouse
26. Add a beautiful bowl to the center of your kitchen table/island
Another option to combine storage and decor is to buy a pretty fruit bowl for your counters. You can choose an oversize design to get plenty of storage for your fresh produce and add a modern touch to your small kitchen.
A huge benefit I noticed when I started having my fruit out is that I actually ended up consuming it way more often!
Photo credit: @stoned.studios
27. Hang your dish soap station
I love preserving any available space when it comes to counters in a small kitchen. A great way to ensure the area around your sink stays clutter-free is to mount your dish and hand soap bottles directly to the wall.
There are plenty of sleek gold hooks you can easily install that will not only help with organization but also add a luxe accent to your space.
Small Kitchen Organization – Pantry
Photo credit: @tidierspaces
28. Use clear, stackable food storage containers
Clear containers are the perfect way to replace one-usage seal plastic bags and reduce food waste. They will help you keep your pantry and fridge organized while, at the same time, making sure you can easily track your food consumption.
They come in various sizes and materials. In my experience, dishwasher-safe glass is a great choice as it’s easy to clean and doesn’t absorb food smells!
Photo credit: @homewithkrissy
29. Label containers for easy access
A well-organized pantry space will have labels – this is a universal rule. A good set of reusable labels can also make it easier for you to buy fewer containers, which is just what you need for a small kitchen storage idea.
Keep your container collection to a minimum and simply swap your labels as your products or habits change over time.
Photo credit: @theorderlyspace
30. Group items in bins or baskets
Containers don’t need to be only for food or dry goods. Don’t be afraid to maximize the usage of your pantry by including a few bins dedicated to your appliances as well.
Tall, clear bins for example are perfect to place at the bottom of your pantry. Stores away but within reach at all times!
Photo credit: @caclosets
31. Install pull-out baskets in the pantry
Pull-out baskets are a stunning addition to any pantry. They look very curated, especially the lined ones, and don’t take much effort to install.
You can mix and match a variety of sizes and spread them around to cover any empty vertical space in your pantry to maximize storage.
Photo credit: @primspace
32. Hang a door rack in the pantry
Just like for your cabinets, your pantry door is a great way to expand your storage options. Add a simple door rack and you’ll find yourself with plenty of new shelves ready for your pantry items.
Photo credit: @orderly_elegance
33. Stack cans on a tiered shelf
Tiered shelves are the perfect option to store dry goods using vertical space. Unlike stockpiling, they make it easy to keep all items visible. They also look more professional and make your pantry worthy of the best small kitchen organization dreams!
Small Kitchen Organization – Walls & Hooks
Photo credit: @thechicquota
34. Install a pot rack on a wall
One of the most beautiful space saving solutions is a wall-mounted pot rack. Not only does it look incredibly charming, especially in a traditional brass color, but it’s also a luxurious way to store cookware and bulky pots.
You can also opt for black matter hardware if your kitchen has a more industrial or farmhouse look.
35. Install a paper towel holder
Paper towels are one of those items that always end up taking up counter space. If you want to keep your surfaces clean and organized, consider installing a wall-mounted paper towel holder.
I love this golden one – it makes for the perfect wall accent!
Photo credit: @nest.in.birdland
36. Hang measuring cups on hooks
Measuring cups are another set of items that can be challenging to keep organized. Your wall is actually a great place to store them, keeping them readily available and perfectly displayed.
For extra functionality, add fun wall art with conversion metrics right next to your measuring cups. You’ll thank yourself later, I promise!
37. Use command hooks for towels
For the ultimate renter-friendly addition to your small kitchen organization, look no further than command hooks. They are perfect for hanging hand towels and oven mittens on your walls without leaving any permanent damage.
Small Kitchen Organization – Miscellaneous Simple Tips
38. Get a rolling cart for extra storage
Since my college days, I swear by rolling carts for easy added storage. You can use a rolling cart to store cleaning supplies or dinnerware that you may need to move to other spaces like your living room or dining room.
I also like them to store bulky pots that may not fit into smaller cabinets.
39. Add under-shelf baskets
Under-shelf baskets are a staple of small kitchen organization. You can use them on open shelves or inside your cabinets and pantry to maximize the vertical storage options.
In my experience, these pieces are extremely convenient but not very good for heavy weights. A good use for them could be small amounts of produce, backup dish towels, or table linens.
Photo credit: @reclaimmypantry
40. Hang a blackboard to avoid random papers
I love including a blackboard in my kitchen design. A solid schedule helps you stay on top of things and plan better meals and shopping.
Consider this area as the organization headquarters for your small kitchen.
To Conclude
This post showed you 40 small kitchen organization ideas to help you maximize storage and make your space more functional!
Having a small space doesn’t mean that your kitchen needs to be a cramped mess. From creating vertical storage solutions to creating an easy but rigorous organization system, your small kitchen can be a tidy haven that lets you enjoy decorating and plenty of functional counter space!
The good news is that after turning your small kitchen clutter-free, you’ll have a beautiful cozy space that requires minimum effort for maintenance. Sometimes, less is truly more!
