20 Kitchen Storage Ideas That Will Free up So Much Space
Updated: Jul. 30, 2020Kitchens can collect a lot of clutter. Save space (and a little sanity) with these storage and organization ideas.
Every product is independently selected by our editors. If you buy something through our links, we may earn an affiliate commission.
Hang a Pegboard
Though you can get it for cheap at your local hardware store, pegboard has a life beyond your garage. Paint a sheet white and use it to show off some of your prettiest kitchen tools—including cutting boards, pans and bakeware. (Bonus point: It’ll help free up space in your cabinets.) For items that are more difficult to hang, we recommend installing a metal wall basket like this one ($35).
Get Smart with Under-the-Sink Storage
The spot underneath your sink is one of the most under-appreciated areas in the kitchen. Take advantage of that treasure trove of unused space by installing this two-tier sliding organizer ($90) to hold cleaning supplies. We love how it screws right into a cabinet base, making it much more stable than similar sliding storage units.
Keep Spices in Drawers
Get the convenience of a spice rack without cluttering your shelves with this tiered spice organizer ($9) that fits into your drawers. Spices lay flat, so you’ll be able to reach for that garlic powder without toppling the rest of your seasonings. Ready to add to your collection? Here are spices and seasonings you never knew you needed.
Designate a Space for Lids
I’m going to take a wild guess: You’re frustrated with the way you’re currently storing the lids for your cookware. This roll-out lid holder ($50) is the answer. Vertical dividers prop lids on their sides, freeing up extra space in kitchen cabinets. Plus, the organizer extends forward so you won’t find yourself digging in the back. For larger cookware and appliances, try this sliding shelf ($60).
Purchase lid holder here and shelf here.
Add a Lazy Susan
We’re not sure why she’s dubbed “lazy” because this rotating organizer is one of the hardest workers in our pantry. Give her a twirl and the items once pushed to the back of your cabinet are front and center. We love this two-tier turntable ($14) that doubles the space.
Use a Magnetic Knife Holder
Big bulky knife blocks should be a thing of the past. Not only do they take up valuable counter space, but they can also collect some pretty icky bacteria, too. (Read all about it.) Opt for a magnetic holder instead. This stunning walnut knife strip ($60) installs right into your wall and has a powerful magnet that keeps knives securely in place.
Bins, Bins, Bins
Ditch the flimsy packaging and save space with a set of our Test Kitchen’s favorite food storage containers. Each container is built with an airtight seal ensuring your dry goods don’t go stale. Get a 5-piece starter set ($50) that’s great for sugar, spices, pasta noodles and more.
Be Basket Beautiful
When your storage is out on display, plastic bins just won’t cut it. Try something more decorative like a basket to hold produce, mail or even a few cookbooks. These rattan baskets ($30) have flat backs, that are ideal for hanging on the back of a door or wall.
Add Under-Shelf Storage
Tall cabinet shelving can leave extra empty space ripe for the taking. Install an under-the-shelf basket ($16) to hold items like plates, mugs, linens or ramekins.
Go Multifunctional
Heads up, home cooks! This three-in-one device ($15) makes it easy to have aluminum foil, plastic wrap and paper towels at the ready. With integrated sliding cutting blades, you’ll not have to fuss with the flimsy razors that come on traditional packaging. Plus, the unit mounts securely to your wall.
Store Items Inside Your Door
The inside of a cabinet door is the perfect place to store small slender items. This extra thin cutting board set ($20) comes with a storage unit that sticks right onto your door, keeping prep boards out of sight and out of mind—until, of course, you need them.
Organize Tea Bags
Tea enthusiasts, listen up! Flimsy cardboard tea packaging can take up a ton of space. Instead, organize your chamomiles, Earl Greys, herbals and more in this nifty tea stand ($25). The organizer fits almost 100 tea bags and makes a neat caddy for hosting, too.
Create More Space for Cutlery
The stacked design of this utensil holder ($20) practically doubles the space in your kitchen drawer. Forks, knives and spoons rest at an angle, creating more space for larger items like whisks and spatulas.
Hang Wineglasses
Wine enthusiasts may be familiar with the 2004 flick Sideways—but have you ever heard of upside-down? This hanging wineglass holder ($21) attaches underneath your cabinet storing your glasses stem-side-up. Plus, you’ll have easy access when you uncork that next bottle of Chardonnay.
Hang Bins in the Fridge
Tired of produce piling up in the fridge? This pull-out storage bin ($15) makes chaotic, disorganized fridges a thing of the past. Simply snap the railing system onto a shelf and you’re good to go.
Organize Your K-Cups
The Keurig is one of our favorite appliances—pop in a K-cup and you’ve got coffee in an instant! However, those cups can quickly turn into an unsightly mess. The solution? This K-Cup holder ($25). Its unique design tucks away under a shelf or cabinet, freeing up more space in your pantry. When you need a cup o’ joe, simply swing down the organizer and choose your brew.
Stow Away Paper Towels
Have a small kitchen? We have a product for you. This over-the-door paper towel holder ($10) hides your quilted rolls in any cabinet, giving you back precious countertop space. Psst! We tested the top brands and found the best paper towels.
Add Spinners for Extra Fridge Space
Lazy Susans aren’t just great for pantry organization—they work wonders in your fridge, too. Add one to any shelf to corral all of your jams, mustards, pickles and sauces. We like the non-skid grip on this turntable ($15) that prevents jars from flying no matter how many times you spin it.
Group Items in a Magazine Holder
Common office supplies can double as kitchen organizers, too. A simple magazine holder, for instance, can help tidy up cleaning supplies and other bits and bobs around the kitchen. Get a pack of 12 here ($19). We particularly like storing tall items like plastic wrap, parchment paper and aluminum foil in one of these!
Invest in a Lid Organizer
No matter how you stack ’em, plastic lids for storage containers can become a real mess. When we’re looking to save our sanity, we reach for this handy lid organizer ($20). It has adjustable dividers that help keep square or circular lids snug. How’d that for tidying up?
