20 Kitchen Storage Ideas That Will Free Up So Much Space
Updated: Mar. 16, 2023The kitchen is undoubtedly the epicenter of the home—and such a highly trafficked part of the house is likely to fall into disorder. Not to worry! We've gathered some smart storage ideas to keep the epicenter of your house in good working order.
Our editors and experts handpick every product we feature. We may earn a commission from your purchases.
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 ($47).
Note: Prices listed were accurate as of press time; pricing fluctuations may occur.
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 ($78) 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.
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). Plus, get a look at some container store products professional organizers use in their own homes.
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. Opt for a magnetic holder instead. This stunning walnut knife strip ($36) 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. Learn about the foods you actually shouldn’t be keeping in your pantry.
Add under-shelf storage
Tall cabinet shelving can leave extra empty space ripe for the taking. Install an under-the-shelf basket ($19) to hold items like plates, mugs, linens, or ramekins. Learn about some kitchen hacks you’ll wish you knew sooner.
Go multifunctional
Heads up, home cooks! This three-in-one device ($23) 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.
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 wine glasses
Wine enthusiasts may be familiar with the 2004 flick Sideways—but have you ever heard of upside-down? This hanging wineglass holder ($23) 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. Here are more genius kitchen organizing ideas you won’t believe you lived without.
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. Check out these tricks for maximizing your storage space.
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 ($15). 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? Next, check out these secrets professional organizers will never tell you for free.
Want more deals and product picks sent directly to your inbox? Sign up for our Stuff We Love newsletter.
