Maximize Your Kitchen Space Like a Pro
Having a well-organized kitchen is the key to a functional and stress-free cooking experience. Whether you have a spacious kitchen with an island or a compact one in your apartment, maximizing your space can make meal prep easier and more enjoyable, not to mention easier to clean after you’re done.
While it may seem impossible to keep your kitchen neat and organized, we believe in the art of the possible. With smart kitchen storage ideas, clever hacks, and a focus on organization, you can make every inch of counter space or cabinet room count. The pros at Apple Self Storage will show you how to master organizing your kitchen and create more space for cooking.
Assessing Your Kitchen Situation
Before you pull everything out of your cabinets and shelves, take a step back and assess the current state of your kitchen. Identify problem areas where clutter accumulates, pinpoint unused spaces, and determine what your plan of attack should be. Taking measurements and understanding the limitations of your kitchen will help you implement the right kitchen storage ideas without frustration.
Decluttering and Replacing Kitchen Items
One of the simplest yet most effective storage ideas for a small kitchen is decluttering. Go through your kitchenware, utensils, and pantry items and remove anything that is expired, unused, or redundant. If you haven’t used an appliance in over a year, consider donating or selling it. Replacing bulky, outdated kitchen tools with space-saving alternatives like stackable bowls or collapsible measuring cups can also open up precious space while maintaining functionality.
Prioritizing the Essentials
When organizing your kitchen, focus on the essentials. Prioritize what you truly need and use regularly so you can streamline your kitchen space and minimize unnecessary clutter. Here are some things you’ll likely need to have front-and-center:
- Plates
- Cups and glasses
- Cutlery
- Spices
- Napkins or paper towels
- Frequently used pots and pans
Organizing Your Kitchen Cabinets
Maximizing cabinet space is a crucial part of maintaining an efficient kitchen. Utilize vertical space with stackable shelves and tension rods, which create additional levels for plates and mugs. Install pull-out drawers or a Lazy Susan to easily access items in deep cabinets. Door-mounted racks are also excellent for storing spices, cutting boards, or lids while ensuring no space goes to waste when organizing your kitchen cabinets.
Storage Ideas for a Pantry
A well-organized pantry can turn meal planning and grocery shopping from a chore into a rewarding experience. Use clear containers to store dry goods like rice, pasta, and flour to keep them fresh and visible. Group similar items together, as that will make it easier to locate things you don’t use daily, like baking supplies. Adjustable shelving, hanging baskets, and over-the-door organizers are other great storage ideas for a pantry that help maximize every inch.
Keeping Drawers Organized
Drawers often become overrun by clutter and disorganization, but with the right techniques, they can easily be kept in order. Use drawer dividers to separate utensils, measuring spoons, and other small tools that can quickly get jumbled up. Consider using pegboard inserts for pots and lids, as this will help keep them from shifting. Labeling drawers can also help keep everything in its place, making it easier to maintain organization.
How To Organize Tupperware and Other Food Storage Containers
Storing food containers like Tupperware or glassware can be a nightmare if not managed properly. To avoid overflowing cabinets and missing lids, dedicate a specific drawer or shelf to food container storage. Nest smaller containers inside larger ones and store lids vertically using a Tupperware organizer or horizontally with a pull-out basket. Implementing these Tupperware storage ideas will help you to spend more time in your clutter-free kitchen.
Where to Put Countertop Appliances
Countertop space is valuable real estate in any kitchen. It can help to limit the number of appliances stored on your counters by designating cabinet space for items you use less frequently. A rolling cart or appliance garage can also keep essentials like toasters, blenders, and coffee makers accessible while keeping countertops clutter-free. If you have high cabinets, use pull-down racks to store appliances that are only busted out for holidays or special occasions.
Under-the-Sink Organization Tips
The space under the sink is often underutilized or cluttered with half-empty bottles of cleaning supplies. Take advantage of this area by installing pull-out bins or tiered shelves for easy access. Use hooks or adhesive organizers to hang gloves, sponges, and dishwashing tools, but store toxic cleaners in a secured bin if you have children or pets. These kitchen storage ideas will help maintain order and make cleaning much easier.
Storage Ideas for a Small Kitchen
If you’re working with limited kitchen space, try to employ some of these creative storage ideas for a small kitchen. Utilize wall-mounted racks for pots, pans, and cooking utensils, hanging them above your sink or another open area. Install magnetic strips for knives to save drawer space, and fold-down tables or extendable countertops can provide space when needed. Corner shelves and hanging baskets can use up overlooked spaces, making them a practical choice.
Create Space at Home and Rent an Apple Self Storage Unit
As you look for ways to make space around your house or apartment, you may realize you have too much stuff. Instead of throwing things out or living in a cluttered home, invest in some additional space with Apple Self Storage. We offer residential storage units that are available in a wide range of sizes so you can find a solution that fits your personal needs.
Find an Apple Self Storage facility near you and get started today! You can also browse our FAQ and blog for more information on the rental process.