Skip to content

Top Navigation

Better Homes & Gardens
Better Homes & Gardens
  • Gardening
  • Home Improvement Ideas
  • Cleaning and Organizing
  • Recipes and Cooking
  • Decorating
  • Holidays
  • Rooms
  • Shopping
  • News

Profile Menu

Join Now

Account

  • Join Now
  • My Profile
  • Email Preferences
  • Newsletter
  • Manage Your Subscription this link opens in a new tab
  • Help
  • Logout

More

  • Give a Gift Subscription
  • BH&G Books this link opens in a new tab
My Account

Account

  • Join Now
  • My Profile
  • Email Preferences
  • Newsletter
  • Manage Your Subscription this link opens in a new tab
  • Help
  • Logout

More

  • Give a Gift Subscription
  • BH&G Books this link opens in a new tab
Login
Subscribe
Pin

Explore Better Homes & Gardens

Better Homes & Gardens
Better Homes & Gardens
  • Explore

    Explore

    • The Only Weed Identification Guide You'll Ever Need: 33 Common Weedy Plants to Watch For

      The Only Weed Identification Guide You'll Ever Need: 33 Common Weedy Plants to Watch For

      Don't let these pesky plants crash your garden party! The first step is to know your enemy. Then you'll know the best way to deal with your weed problem. Read More
    • 6 Small Steps You Can Take Today to Get Organized for Good

      6 Small Steps You Can Take Today to Get Organized for Good

      A professional organizer offers advice on how to tidy up your home without feeling overwhelmed. Read More
    • 5 Anti-Inflammatory Ingredients to Add to Your Smoothie for a Healthy Boost

      5 Anti-Inflammatory Ingredients to Add to Your Smoothie for a Healthy Boost

      Anti-inflammatory smoothies do exist! Instead of blending in boatloads of sugar and artificial ingredients, try these smoothies for inflammation that are stoked with ingredients that may help lower your risk for chronic diseases including cancer, heart disease, depression, and more. Read More
  • Gardening

    Gardening

    See All Gardening
    4 DIY Seed-Starting Pots You Can Make With Items You Already Have

    4 DIY Seed-Starting Pots You Can Make With Items You Already Have

    Upcycle old newspapers, junk mail, and other waste paper to make these easy, eco-friendly containers you can use to sprout new plants for your garden.
    • Flowers
    • Houseplants
    • Plant Encyclopedia
    • Garden Pests
    • Trees, Shrubs & Vines
    • Caring for Your Yard
    • Edible Gardening
    • Garden Design
    • Gardening By Region
    • Landscaping
  • Home Improvement Ideas

    Home Improvement Ideas

    See All Home Improvement Ideas
    What Style Is Your House? The 10 Most Popular House Styles Explained

    What Style Is Your House? The 10 Most Popular House Styles Explained

    With so many types of house styles, narrowing the list down to your favorite can be overwhelming. We'll show you the top 10 most popular house styles, including Cape Cod, country French, Colonial, Victorian, Tudor, Craftsman, cottage, Mediterranean, ranch, and contemporary. Here's how to tell the differences between each architectural style.
    • Home Exteriors
    • DIY Home Electrical Tips & Guides
    • Outdoor Structures
    • Home Remodeling
    • Plumbing Installations & Repairs
    • Remodeling Advice & Planning
    • Flooring
    • Lighting
    • Decks
    • Porches
  • Cleaning and Organizing

    Cleaning and Organizing

    See All Cleaning and Organizing
    A Whole-House Cleaning Schedule You'll Actually Stick To

    A Whole-House Cleaning Schedule You'll Actually Stick To

    Cleaning your home doesn't have to be a daunting, time-consuming chore. The key to managing household duties quickly and efficiently is to design an easy-to-follow routine that includes all the most important tasks. Follow these step-by-step instructions for creating a customized whole-home cleaning schedule.
    • House Cleaning
    • Laundry & Linens
    • Cleaning Tips
    • Closet Organization
    • Organization Tips
    • Kitchen Storage Organization
  • Recipes and Cooking

    Recipes and Cooking

    See All Recipes and Cooking
    21 Essential Baking Tools Every Home Cook Needs (Plus 16 That Are Nice to Have)

    21 Essential Baking Tools Every Home Cook Needs (Plus 16 That Are Nice to Have)

    If you're a beginner baker who's just starting out (or a master chef looking to declutter), start with this list of baking tool must-haves. We'll help you set up a baking essentials kit for beginners with 21 pastry tools. For those who already own these handy tools, this list may finally provide the motivation you need to toss that never-been-used soufflé dish. Building your essential baking tools and equipment inventory starts here.
    • How to Cook
    • Chicken Recipes
    • Desserts & Baking
    • Fish Recipes
    • Beef Recipes
    • Healthy Recipes
    • Breakfast and Brunch Recipes
    • Lunch
    • Dinner Recipes & Meal Ideas
    • Ethnic Food
  • Decorating

    Decorating

    See All Decorating
    7 Interior Design Trends Everyone Will Be Trying in 2021, According to Experts

    7 Interior Design Trends Everyone Will Be Trying in 2021, According to Experts

    Designers weigh in on the most popular decorating styles, colors, and materials you can look forward to in the coming year.
    • Choosing Color
    • Expert Decorating Advice
    • Fireplace Design Ideas
    • Do It Yourself Magazine
    • Window Treatments
    • Styles & Decor
    • Interior Painting
    • Home Makeovers
    • Small-Space Decorating
    • Traditional Home
  • Holidays

    Holidays

    See All Holidays
    International Women's Day: The Powerful Story Behind This 111-Year-Old Tradition

    International Women's Day: The Powerful Story Behind This 111-Year-Old Tradition

    What began as a small movement, has grown into a global holiday dedicated to celebrating the strong women in our communities.
    • Valentine's Day
    • Mother's Day
    • Easter
    • Father's Day
    • Fourth of July/Memorial Day
    • Halloween
    • Thanksgiving
    • Christmas
    • New Year's
    • Juneteenth
    • Hanukkah
  • Rooms

    Rooms

    See All Rooms
    Living Room Furniture Arrangement Ideas

    Living Room Furniture Arrangement Ideas

    Get tips for arranging living room furniture in a way that creates a comfortable and welcoming environment and makes the most of your space.
    • Bedroom Decorating and Design Ideas
    • Bathroom Decorating and Design Ideas
    • Kitchen Decorating and Design Ideas
    • Living Room Decorating and Design
    • Dining Room
    • Home Office
    • Kid's Rooms
    • Baby Nursery
  • Shopping
  • News

Profile Menu

Subscribe this link opens in a new tab
Join Now

Account

  • Join Now
  • My Profile
  • Email Preferences
  • Newsletter
  • Manage Your Subscription this link opens in a new tab
  • Help
  • Logout

More

  • Give a Gift Subscription
  • BH&G Books this link opens in a new tab
My Account

Account

  • Join Now
  • My Profile
  • Email Preferences
  • Newsletter
  • Manage Your Subscription this link opens in a new tab
  • Help
  • Logout

More

  • Give a Gift Subscription
  • BH&G Books this link opens in a new tab
Login
Sweepstakes

Follow Us

  1. BHG.com
  2. Kitchen Decor & Design
  3. Storage
  4. Organization
  5. 34 Ingenious Ways to Store More in Your Kitchen

34 Ingenious Ways to Store More in Your Kitchen

headshot of home editor jessica bennett
By Jessica Bennett Updated January 05, 2022
Skip gallery slides
Save Pin FB
modern keep sleek organize kitchen
Credit: Helen Norman
Control clutter in your kitchen with effective ideas that maximize the space you have. Here are 34 solutions to help you store more stuff, including food, cookware, small appliances, and more. Make room for all the essentials and find everything more easily with these kitchen storage ideas.
Start Slideshow

1 of 34

Save Pin FB
Tweet Email Send Text Message

Add Open Shelves

gray kitchen with tile and white open shelving
Credit: Greg Scheidemann

Open shelving is a pretty and practical way to utilize kitchen wall space. Line the shelves with cookbooks, displays of attractive serving bowls and dishes, stemware, vases, or baskets. Here, grouping and stacking pieces on the open shelves keep items neat and easy to find.

1 of 34

Advertisement
Advertisement

2 of 34

Save Pin FB
Tweet Email Send Text Message

Put Walls to Work

pegboard kitchen storage
Credit: Adam Albright

Turn a bare section of wall into a hook-and-hang center. Pegboard provides an easy way to keep kitchen tools handy. Use a combination of hooks and pegs to hang cookware, cutting boards, utensils, and more.

2 of 34

3 of 34

Save Pin FB
Tweet Email Send Text Message

Fake a Pantry

organized kitchen cabinet drawers
Credit: John Granen

When kitchen space is limited, unconventional storage solutions can ensure you don't have to sacrifice function. Outfitting cabinetry with pullout shelves is a smart alternative to a full-size pantry. The raised edges on these shelves keep boxes and bags upright, organized, and accessible.

3 of 34

Advertisement

4 of 34

Save Pin FB
Tweet Email Send Text Message

Divide Your Drawer Space

kitchen drawer organize silverware
Credit: Helen Norman

Dividers help organize flatware and other items inside your drawers. Choose adjustable inserts for added flexibility, or create custom organizers that fit your drawer's exact dimensions. Consider a two-tiered system to double the storage capacity.

4 of 34

5 of 34

Save Pin FB
Tweet Email Send Text Message

Extend Kitchen Cabinetry

grey kitchen cabinets, yellow chairs
Credit: David A. Land

If you're planning for new cabinetry, choose designs that reach the ceiling rather than those topped by a soffit. Although high-rise storage can be difficult to reach, it's convenient for concealing infrequently used items. Keep a step stool nearby to help you access this area when needed.

5 of 34

6 of 34

Save Pin FB
Tweet Email Send Text Message

Organize Your Refrigerator

fridge filled with food
Credit: Cameron Sadeghpour

Keep the space inside your refrigerator in order with a few easy strategies. Start by grouping foods by type, such as beverages, dairy products, leftovers, and produce. Consider add-ons including clear bins, baskets, trays, and turntables to corral items and grant easy access. Keep in mind that you can adjust refrigerator shelves as needed to better accommodate different-sized items.

6 of 34

Advertisement
Advertisement
Advertisement

7 of 34

Save Pin FB
Tweet Email Send Text Message

Incorporate Baking Storage

pan dividers in upper cabinets
Credit: Werner Straube

If you do a lot of baking, keep all your supplies in one spot. Here, cookie sheets, muffin tins, and trays for serving are stored in a cabinet over a wall oven. Retrofit an existing cabinet with inexpensive dividers to keep everything organized.

7 of 34

8 of 34

Save Pin FB
Tweet Email Send Text Message

Upgrade an Island

modern keep sleek organize kitchen
Credit: Helen Norman

Boost kitchen storage by adding shelves or niches to the end of a cabinet run. The side of an island or cabinet is a prime spot for displaying kitchen collectibles or storing cookbooks. Adding onto an existing island will also extend your available prep space.

8 of 34

9 of 34

Save Pin FB
Tweet Email Send Text Message

Utilize Pullouts

Cupboard filled with spices and oils
Credit: Edward Gohlich

A deep, narrow drawer such as this one is the perfect spot for storing tall bottles of oil, vinegar, and more. Additional shelves stash smaller spice containers. Consider adding one to your next cabinetry makeover, or as a quick-fix alternative, corral all your bottles into a deep basket that you can slide onto a shelf or inside an existing cabinet.

9 of 34

Advertisement
Advertisement
Advertisement

10 of 34

Save Pin FB
Tweet Email Send Text Message

Round Up Your Recycling

kitchen drawer trash can
Credit: Tria Giovan

A two-bin unit lets you sort recyclables and trash, then conceal them behind doors. The most convenient location for this unit is next to the sink so cans and bottles can go straight from a rinse into the appropriate bin. Or, choose a location near the door where you exit the house to limit how far you must lug the bins.

10 of 34

11 of 34

Save Pin FB
Tweet Email Send Text Message

Create an Easy-Access Pantry

built in pantry sliding drawers
Credit: JANET MESIC-MACKIE

Store all your pantry staples in one convenient location. A floor-to-ceiling cabinet is divided into shelves so nothing gets lost in the back of the cupboard. Consider attaching a tack board to the door or side of the pantry for posting notes, a calendar, and shopping lists.

11 of 34

12 of 34

Save Pin FB
Tweet Email Send Text Message

Combine Kitchen Storage Types

kitchen with white cabinets and wood tones
Credit: Laurie Black

Combine open and closed storage for visual interest and accessibility. An arrangement of cabinets and cubbies makes use of typically wasted space around a refrigerator. Reserve open storage areas for items that look good on display, such as cookbooks, glassware, or serving pieces.

12 of 34

Advertisement
Advertisement
Advertisement

13 of 34

Save Pin FB
Tweet Email Send Text Message

Store Stuff on the Doors

cabinet added storage shelves
Credit: Michael Partenio

Attach racks to the inside of cabinet doors to boost kitchen storage options. Be sure to allow enough clearance within your cabinets to allow the door to close completely. A narrow rack such as this one is ideal for keeping small jars in order.

13 of 34

14 of 34

Save Pin FB
Tweet Email Send Text Message

Build in Storage

white bench with drawers
Credit: Laura Moss

Turn unused space below a built-in banquette into storage. Deep drawers are a convenient spot to stash extra table linens, placemats, and napkins. For an open storage option, build cubbies or shelves into the area below the seat.

14 of 34

15 of 34

Save Pin FB
Tweet Email Send Text Message

Boost Storage with Freestanding Pieces

kitchen wood black cabinet high top bar stools
Credit: John Bessler

If your kitchen lacks built-in cabinetry, consider a stand-alone piece to increase the room's storage capacity. This freestanding armoire houses delicate dishware while lending warmth and charm in a transitional kitchen. The piece fits into a corner niche so it doesn't impede traffic flow.

15 of 34

Advertisement
Advertisement
Advertisement

16 of 34

Save Pin FB
Tweet Email Send Text Message

Maximize Undersink Storage

under sink storage bins wood cupboards
Credit: Marty Baldwin

Conquer your under-sink space with a simple, inexpensive solution. Keep your most frequently used items on a turntable for quick access. This kitchen storage idea works well for dish soap, dishwasher detergent, sponges, scrubbers, and other items you reach for often.

16 of 34

17 of 34

Save Pin FB
Tweet Email Send Text Message

Streamline the Coffee Station

pull out drawers coffee machine mugs
Credit: Werner Straube

Make mornings easier with an all-in-one coffee station. Dedicate a drawer next to your coffee maker to holding filters, coffee beans, and travel mugs, so brewing a fresh pot is a one-step task. If you don't have a drawer to spare, consider outfitting a cabinet with pullout shelves that function similarly.

17 of 34

18 of 34

Save Pin FB
Tweet Email Send Text Message

Sort Out Your Freezer

freezer storage plastic bins containers
Credit: Jay Wilde

Stock your freezer with kitchen storage ideas that make use of every inch of shelf space. Use plastic baskets (an affordable organization tool) to store foods by type and put a labeled tag on each. Keep small adhesive labels and a permanent marker on hand to label individual containers.

18 of 34

Advertisement
Advertisement
Advertisement

19 of 34

Save Pin FB
Tweet Email Send Text Message

Use the Toe-Kick

Craft supplies drawer under cabinets
Credit: Greg Scheidemann

The narrow strip between the cabinets and the floor, called the toe-kick, frequently amounts to wasted space. Put this area to work by installing a shallow drawer. Use the newfound storage spot to house kids' craft supplies or stash serving dishes and baking pans.

19 of 34

20 of 34

Save Pin FB
Tweet Email Send Text Message

Add a Kitchen Command Center

paper wall organizing kitchen
Credit: Laura Moss

Organize your family's paperwork, mail, reminders, and more in one convenient spot. Built-in bins, a bulletin board, and a clock turn one side of a fridge cabinet into a household command center. This simple DIY project creates instant organization and utilizes small spaces that are otherwise wasted.

20 of 34

21 of 34

Save Pin FB
Tweet Email Send Text Message

Use Clear Containers for Dry Goods

panty food containers cans
Credit: Bill Holt

Shift dry goods into airtight, stackable containers. Packaged food products can be stored more compactly when transferred from their packaging into stacking containers. Cut out the necessary information from the package (such as cooking instructions or nutritional information) and tape it to the outside of the container.

21 of 34

Advertisement
Advertisement
Advertisement

22 of 34

Save Pin FB
Tweet Email Send Text Message

Keep Towels Close

Pull-Out Cabinet towel
Credit: Beth Singer

Keep dish towels in a cabinet close to the cleanup zone. Use a pullout towel rack with multiple bars to air-dry and store towels. Add another removable bar you can load and reload with paper towel rolls.

22 of 34

23 of 34

Save Pin FB
Tweet Email Send Text Message

How to Convert Cabinets to Open Shelving

No need to tear out existing cabinetry to make room for shelves. Watch and learn how you can turn cabinets into open shelving. With a bit of paint and quick-drying putty, it's easier than you think to create a polished look.

23 of 34

24 of 34

Save Pin FB
Tweet Email Send Text Message

Organize with Cubbies

kitchen storage wicker basket
Credit: Adam Albright

Give order to a collection of nesting mixing bowls or small appliances with a system of cubbies. Add baskets or bins to corral items and create a streamlined look. Tuck in the necessary attachments and manuals that accompany each appliance so everything is on hand.

24 of 34

Advertisement
Advertisement
Advertisement

25 of 34

Save Pin FB
Tweet Email Send Text Message

Properly Store Spices

spice drawer
Credit: Christina Wedge

To store spice bottles with labels visible, lay them on their sides in shallow drawers instead of stacking them. The best location for spice storage is below a cooktop or to the side of a range. The flavor of spices stored above a cooking surface might be adversely affected by the heat.

25 of 34

26 of 34

Save Pin FB
Tweet Email Send Text Message

Neatly Stow Linens

Wire basket shelf filled linens books
Credit: Reed Davis

Run out of drawer space for towels and cloth napkins? Neatly stack linens inside a basket on a shelf or inside a cabinet. This kitchen storage idea will help keep linen sets together and be easy to find when you want to use them.

26 of 34

27 of 34

Save Pin FB
Tweet Email Send Text Message

Choose Full-Extension Pullouts

Kitchen drawers red accent
Credit: Bryan E. McCay

Maximize space with drawers and trays that extend fully. These let you make use of back corners without having to reach deep into cabinets to retrieve a pot or small appliance. Drawers are often a more convenient choice than cabinetry because they save having to first open a set of doors.

27 of 34

Advertisement
Advertisement
Advertisement

28 of 34

Save Pin FB
Tweet Email Send Text Message

Try Upright Storage

Baking sheet organization
Credit: Cameron Sadeghpour

Store shallow items, such as cutting boards and platters, upright. Even narrow spaces next to your range or your sink can be used in this manner. Use dividers to separate items for easier retrieval.

28 of 34

29 of 34

Save Pin FB
Tweet Email Send Text Message

Put Corners to Work

Kitchen Cabinet Door wood mugs
Credit: John Granen

Perpendicular countertops result in extra-deep corners that often go to waste. Put this area to work storing small appliances. Here, sleek bamboo cabinet doors conceal the cabinet's contents.

29 of 34

30 of 34

Save Pin FB
Tweet Email Send Text Message

Stow Pots and Pans

pots pans storage drawers
Credit: John Granen

Fill in the space under a cooktop with rollout trays for pots and pans. A two-tier system works well for storing lids near their corresponding pots. Alternatively, slide in a movable cart with shelves to accommodate cooking equipment.

30 of 34

Advertisement
Advertisement
Advertisement

31 of 34

Save Pin FB
Tweet Email Send Text Message

Group Items by Size

blue pantry food storage closet
Credit: Adam Albright

Arranging same-sized items together is an easy way to use pantry space more efficiently. For the best use of space, adjust your shelves to fit the groupings. Keep in mind, however, that grouping similarly sized items that serve different functions, such as tall cereal boxes and a blender, might take more time when you're searching for something.

31 of 34

32 of 34

Save Pin FB
Tweet Email Send Text Message

Extend Your Pantry Outward

Kitchen Drawers roll out drawers
Credit: Paul Dyer

A pullout pantry system brings the ingredients you need within easy reach. Shelves with tall sides will prevent items from falling out while allowing easy viewing of the contents. Keep in mind that these systems, especially those that extend into toe-kick space near the floor, must be installed perfectly level and plumb to operate smoothly.

32 of 34

33 of 34

Save Pin FB
Tweet Email Send Text Message

Clear the Countertops

small appliances hidden in black cabinet
Credit: Helen Elizabeth Norman

Your kitchen countertops should hold only things you use daily. Create a permanent spot for everything else, including small appliances. An appliance garage is an attractive solution that can store bulky items out of sight.

33 of 34

Advertisement
Advertisement
Advertisement

34 of 34

Save Pin FB
Tweet Email Send Text Message

Customize Shelves

kitchen storage green white wood
Credit: Anna Molvik

If you're installing open shelving, strategize your plan to accommodate what you'll be storing. For example, professional organizers recommend measuring your stacked dishes to determine the shelf height your dishware requires. Weight is another important consideration when determining how to hang your shelves.

34 of 34

Replay gallery

Share the Gallery

Pinterest Facebook

Up Next

By Jessica Bennett

    Share the Gallery

    Pinterest Facebook
    Trending Videos
    Advertisement
    Skip slide summaries

    Everything in This Slideshow

    Advertisement

    View All

    1 of 34 Add Open Shelves
    2 of 34 Put Walls to Work
    3 of 34 Fake a Pantry
    4 of 34 Divide Your Drawer Space
    5 of 34 Extend Kitchen Cabinetry
    6 of 34 Organize Your Refrigerator
    7 of 34 Incorporate Baking Storage
    8 of 34 Upgrade an Island
    9 of 34 Utilize Pullouts
    10 of 34 Round Up Your Recycling
    11 of 34 Create an Easy-Access Pantry
    12 of 34 Combine Kitchen Storage Types
    13 of 34 Store Stuff on the Doors
    14 of 34 Build in Storage
    15 of 34 Boost Storage with Freestanding Pieces
    16 of 34 Maximize Undersink Storage
    17 of 34 Streamline the Coffee Station
    18 of 34 Sort Out Your Freezer
    19 of 34 Use the Toe-Kick
    20 of 34 Add a Kitchen Command Center
    21 of 34 Use Clear Containers for Dry Goods
    22 of 34 Keep Towels Close
    23 of 34 How to Convert Cabinets to Open Shelving
    24 of 34 Organize with Cubbies
    25 of 34 Properly Store Spices
    26 of 34 Neatly Stow Linens
    27 of 34 Choose Full-Extension Pullouts
    28 of 34 Try Upright Storage
    29 of 34 Put Corners to Work
    30 of 34 Stow Pots and Pans
    31 of 34 Group Items by Size
    32 of 34 Extend Your Pantry Outward
    33 of 34 Clear the Countertops
    34 of 34 Customize Shelves

    Share & More

    Tweet Email Send Text Message
    • Better Homes & Gardens BHG Logo Products at Walmart
    • Better Homes & Gardens BHG Real Estate Real Estate Services
    Better Homes & Gardens

    Magazines & More

    Learn More

    • About Us
    • Subscribe this link opens in a new tab
    • Books from Better Homes & Gardens
    • Help
    • Advertise
    • Content Licensing
    • Accolades this link opens in a new tab

    Connect

    Follow Us
    Subscribe to Our Newsletter
    Sign Up
    MeredithBH&G is part of the Meredith Home Group. © Copyright 2022 Meredith Corporation. All Rights Reserved. Privacy Policythis link opens in a new tab Terms of Servicethis link opens in a new tab Ad Choicesthis link opens in a new tab California Do Not Sellthis link opens a modal window Web Accessibilitythis link opens in a new tab
    © Copyright Better Homes & Gardens. All rights reserved. Printed from https://www.bhg.com

    Sign in

    View image

    34 Ingenious Ways to Store More in Your Kitchen
    this link is to an external site that may or may not meet accessibility guidelines.