11 Smart Storage Solutions for Your Pet Supplies

Our pets play a big part in our lives. These loyal companions complete our families, but just like human members of the household, pets come with a lot of stuff. Leashes, food, dishes, toys, treats, vitamins, and grooming supplies are all necessities. To prevent these items from cluttering your home, employ a few clever storage ideas to help you find a spot for everything your four-legged friend needs. Try these practical (and stylish) solutions for organizing dog and cat supplies in a convenient, unobtrusive way.

1. Pet Storage Station

Designate a specific area of your home for pet storage, so all your supplies are located in one easily accessible spot. Set aside a bank of cabinets in the entryway, mudroom, kitchen, or laundry room for storage. If you don't have cabinets to spare, consider dedicating a shelf for your pet supplies in the hall closet or pantry, or add a stand-alone storage unit in an empty corner. Outfit the area with hooks, baskets, and bins, and keep their toys and bed nearby, so your pet knows it's his or her spot.

2. Pull-Out Dog-Food Storage

Large dogs typically require a lot of food, and finding a convenient way to store it can be an issue. To make feeding easier, outfit a pull-out cabinet with a bin of ready-to-scoop kibble. If your dog knows how to nose-open cabinets, consider adding a childproofing latch inside the door.

3. Dog-Walking Station

Create a dog-walking station near an entrance so you can leash up quickly and head outside. Store harnesses and leashes on hooks next to the door, and use a tote or basket to hold poop bags, treats, and walking gear. This helps conceal essentials, while keeping things in a convenient location. Store dog-grooming supplies inside additional bins and caddies nearby.

4. Built-In Dog Bed

All family members need privacy from time to time, and you can provide your pet that same luxury. Tuck a pet bed under shelves or in a small nook, away from heavy traffic zones, to offer someplace quiet and secure to rest. Choose an area where your pet typically likes to hang out, such as the laundry room or near the kitchen, and include a few favorite toys.

5. Cat and Dog Treats

Add decorative labels to everyday glass jars to specify dog treats and food storage. By swapping the original packaging for a set of airtight containers, you can streamline storage, keep treats fresh, and make it easier to grab what you need. Also, you'll never again accidentally mistake your dog's treats for cookies when hunting for a midnight snack.

6. Pet Feeding Station

Add a small mat or tray under dog dishes and bowls to prevent water and food from spilling and spreading across the kitchen floor. Even better, consider a built-in feeding station in a bottom cabinet or drawer. Just open the door or slide out the drawer when it's feeding time, then push it out of sight.

7. Pet Toy Storage

Keep an open bin or basket near floor level to promote daily play and keep your pet's toys within reach. This also helps reinforce which toys are for your pets and which are for other members of the family. For even more storage, small plastic containers within the basket can separate balls from chew toys, and make the main basket easier to clean.

8. Pet-Grooming Caddy

Gather pet-grooming supplies in one convenient place. Fill a shower caddy or tote with basic needs, such as shampoos, brushes, nail clippers, ear solution, and dental-care items. When everything is in one spot, it's easy to transport supplies from room to room, or to take them along on vacation.

9. Pet First-Aid Kit Storage

Unfortunately, our pets can be hurt from time to time, and may need specialized first-aid solutions. Be prepared with a first-aid kit containing cotton pads, gauze, bandages, cotton swabs, scissors, tweezers, flea-and-tick and worming treatments, antiseptics, and sanitizers. Make sure to label the kit, so it won't be mistaken for your human one.

10. Store Important Pet Paperwork

Organize important pet paperwork and vet records within a handy three-ring binder or folder. Use it to keep track of appointment dates, medications, veterinarian information, and pet-sitter notes. Store the records with the rest of your family's documents and paperwork.

11. All-in-One Pet Storage Area

Create an all-in-one cabinet for all things pet-related. Store food in bins, use hooks for walking equipment, and stash toys and grooming supplies inside baskets. Customize the storage area with a variety of organizers to fit all your pet's needs, so you can tuck everything away neatly behind closed doors.