Small Kitchen Organization

Small kitchens require strategic organization. With limited cabinet and counter space, every item needs to earn its place. The goal is a functional kitchen where you can actually cook, not just store things.

First: Declutter the Kitchen

Before organizing, reduce:

• Duplicates: Multiple spatulas, measuring cups, can openers
• Single-use gadgets: That you rarely use
• Excess dishes: More than you need for daily use plus guests
• Mismatched containers: Especially those without lids
• Expired food: Pantry and fridge purge

Cabinet Organization

Use Vertical Space Inside Cabinets

• Shelf risers: Double your shelf capacity
• Stackable shelves: For dishes and pantry items
• Under-shelf baskets: Hang from shelves for extra storage
• Hooks inside doors: For measuring cups, pot lids

Organize by Frequency

• Eye level: Daily dishes, glasses, frequently used items
• Lower cabinets: Heavy items like pots, appliances
• Upper/hard-to-reach: Rarely used items, special occasion dishes

Group by Function

• Baking supplies together
• Coffee/tea station
• Food storage containers in one spot
• Cooking utensils near the stove

Counter Space

The Counter Rule

In small kitchens, keep counters as clear as possible:

• Daily-use items only on counters
• Appliances you don't use daily go in cabinets
• Clear counters = more workspace = easier cooking

What Earns Counter Space

• Coffee maker (if daily use)
• Knife block or magnetic strip
• Utensil crock near stove
• Perhaps a toaster (if daily use)

Counter Alternatives

• Appliance garage or cabinet
• Rolling cart (mobile counter space)
• Fold-down counter or cutting board
• Over-sink cutting board

Pantry Solutions

If You Have a Pantry

• Use clear containers for dry goods (see contents, stackable)
• Door-mounted racks for spices and small items
• Lazy Susans for corners and deep shelves
• Baskets for grouping similar items

If You Don't Have a Pantry

• Dedicate one cabinet to pantry items
• Use a rolling cart or shelf unit
• Over-door rack on a nearby closet
• Open shelf unit if you have wall space

Drawer Organization

• Drawer dividers: Essential for utensil drawers
• Tiered inserts: For deeper drawers
• Vertical dividers: For cutting boards, baking sheets

Creative Small Kitchen Solutions

Wall Storage

• Magnetic knife strip
• Hanging pot rack (if ceiling allows)
• Wall-mounted spice rack
• Pegboard for utensils
• Rail system with hooks

Overlooked Spaces

• Inside cabinet doors
• Side of refrigerator (magnetic storage)
• Above the refrigerator
• Gap between refrigerator and wall (slim rolling cart)
• Under-sink with organizers