11 Cheap Storage Solutions for When You Don’t Have a Pantry

Install pull-out shelves to maximize lost space in deep cabinets. You can use drawer dividers to organize pantry items on the shelves.

Make use of smaller shelves inside larger cabinets or on bigger shelves. You can double stack canned items by using a wire shelf dispenser, like this one from Amazon.

Use open plastic bins to store snacks on higher shelves. The clear containers allow a visual without needing a step ladder, and make it easier to reach and take down items. These bins from mDesign would work well, and are available in various multiples.  Check out the 21 best Container Store products to organize your home.

Make use of corner cabinets by installing a rotating lazy-susan shelf, like this multi-level unit. Store baking and dry goods in dollar store containers to keep them organized and standing straight on a wide corner shelf.

Wash and dry empty coffee creamer bottles and fill with chopped nuts, seeds and baking chips for an inexpensive way to organize pantry items you tend to shake or sprinkle. Here are 20 more easy DIY ideas that will transform your space.

Use a craft or tool organizer with divided compartments to store baking and decorating items you don’t use every day. Close the lid and stack multiple cases in the cabinet.

If you have more counter space than pantry, store bulky items like flour and sugar in decorative jars on your counter. Look for tall and narrow containers, or ones that stack to keep the footprint small. Need more space in the freezer for cool stuff? Consider a chest freezer in the garage or basement. Learn about the difference between chest and upright freezers, here.

Pare down or store your fancy, rarely-used dinnerware and repurpose a china hutch into a pantry. This adds extra counter space for grab-n-go snacks or a coffee station, too.

Buy an inexpensive kitchen cart and let the meal prep go where the cook does by filling the top rack with frequently used spices and seasonings. When dinner’s over, wheel the cart against a wall or in a corner to tidy up. The cart in the photo is Ikea’s RÅSKOG cart, which is available in black, white and teal.

Space a short shelf in the cabinet nearest the coffee maker to keep the beverage essentials right at hand and ready for the morning, without using the whole cabinet.

Don’t forget! Line cabinet shelves that store food with contact paper or vinyl liner cut-to-size to avoid permanent damage from inevitable leaks or spills.