Small-Kitchen Storage and Organization Solutions
Smart Swaps That Make a Tiny Kitchen Feel Huge
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Anyone who's ever lived in a small apartment knows that space is a precious commodity. That's because when your kitchen is on the small side, every inch counts — and the more room you can free up, the bigger your space will feel. Along with ridding your kitchen of unnecessary clutter, one smart strategy is to be intentional about what you bring into your space. Ask yourself, "Do I need this? Does it work for the way I cook and live? How will I use this item, and where will I store it?"
Being real with those answers will help you make thoughtful choices around designing your kitchen, which will ultimately help your kitchen feel larger than it is. Right-size storage, bright dishware, and clever space-saving items can transform a small kitchen in practical and aesthetic ways — so not only can you maximize space and cook more efficiently, but you'll also be able to make your kitchen look more cohesive. And who doesn't want that?
Read on for 10 super-smart swaps and improvements that can make a teeny-tiny kitchen feel roomy and welcoming.
A Compact Dish Rack
Dish racks can eat up a ton of counter space, and they're not necessarily the most aesthetically pleasing items to display in your kitchen. Swap it for this Squared Away Aluminum Over-the-Sink Drying Rack ($20), which unrolls over the sink to allow dishes to drain and dry. When it's time to put away the dry dishes, just roll up the rack and store it.
Light Dishes
Light colors make a space look larger, as is the case with this Simply Essential Coupe 12-Piece Dinnerware Set ($30). The white dish set provides service for four, goes with every style of decor, and looks minimalist chic on open shelving.
Smarter Shelving
Not enough room for plates, dishes, and bowls? Double your vertical cabinet space with a set of Open Spaces Shelf Risers ($72). The steel base is super sturdy, while the whitewashed wood looks fresh and modern — and it looks good enough to use on your countertop, too.
Matching Storage
Visual clutter can make any space seem smaller than it is. For food storage, ditch your mismatched leftover containers, and instead invest in a matching set of glass containers. This well-priced Anchor Hocking 20-Piece Storage Container Set ($25) provides a lot of storage options without taking up a ton of room. Nest smaller containers within the larger ones, and stack the color-coded lids on top of each other to keep things tidy.
A Spice Zone
OK, so you don't have room for a spice drawer. No problem! A uniform spice-organization system, with jars neatly arranged and labeled in a caddy, can free up room in overstuffed cupboards and make cooking easier. This Kamenstein 16-Jar Plaza Spice Rack ($48) holds 16 jars of herbs and spices but takes up only a small fraction of counter space. No more hunting for the smoked paprika — it's right there, within easy reach.
Refrigerator Storage
When you can't find more horizontal space, look for opportunities to make vertical surfaces useful. For instance, this Plate Magnetic Organizer ($42) attaches to your fridge with a strong magnet, then becomes a useful place to store paper towels, pot holders, utensils, and other essentials. No tools necessary, but you can also wall mount it if you don't want to go the magnetic route.
A Narrow Cabinet
Got an odd little nook in your kitchen? With the Salt Narrow Space Saver Cabinet ($70), it can become a storage solution. This slim, unobtrusive cabinet has a pull-out drawer that holds a surprising number of items, and its clean lines mean it fits in with the rest of your stuff. (PS: this works wonders in small bathrooms and laundry rooms as well!)
A Better Bin
If your recycling bin is constantly overflowing and your garbage barely fits under the sink, the Simplehuman Dual Compartment Rectangular Step Trash Can ($200) may be the investment-worthy item you've been waiting for. On one side: a bin for recyclables. On the other: a bin for garbage. Super-simple concept, sure — but now there's only one can where there used to be two, and it actually looks sleek. That's a win all around.
A Clutter Saver
Don't have enough drawers to hold all of those random kitchen items like tea bags and random ketchup packets? An iDesign Medium Compact Eco Bin ($10) or two will help you hide these items while looking good on display. Available in two sizes, they keep things organized and hidden from plain view — and aren't priced exorbitantly, so you can afford to create an intentional-looking set.
A Magnetic Knife Holder
Knife blocks are handy, but in a small kitchen, you've got to hold on to every square inch of counter space you can. Why not swap the block for this Zwilling 17.75-Inch Stainless Steel Magnetic Knife Bar ($45)? Mount it on the wall, organize your cutlery on its strong magnet, and appreciate the extra space you've just freed up.
