What should go in kitchen cupboards? Generally, you should store items based on how often you use them, grouping similar items together, and prioritizing accessibility for frequently used tools and ingredients.
Getting your kitchen cupboards in order can feel like a big job. But with the right plan, you can make your cooking space much easier to use. This guide offers many kitchen organization hacks to help you sort out every shelf and drawer. We will cover everything from the deep corners to the spice jars. Let’s look at smart ways to use the space you have.
Deciphering Zones: Where Everything Belongs
The first step in successful organizing kitchen cabinets is creating zones. Think about how you move in your kitchen when cooking. You wash, prep, cook, and serve. Your cupboards should match these actions.
The Prep Zone
This area is where you chop, mix, and measure. It should be near your main counter space.
- What to store here: Mixing bowls, cutting boards, measuring cups and spoons, small food processors.
- Storage Tip: Keep mixing bowls nested. Use vertical space for cutting boards.
The Cooking Zone
This zone lives closest to your stove or oven.
- What to store here: Pots, pans, baking sheets, cooking utensils (spatulas, ladles), cooking oils, and salt/pepper.
- Handling bulky items: Storing pots and pans can take up a lot of space. We will cover specific solutions for this later.
The Cleaning Zone
This is usually under the sink. Keep cleaners separate from food items.
- What to store here: Dish soap, sponges, dishwasher pods, trash bags.
- Safety Note: If you have small children, use childproof locks on these low cabinets.
The Dry Goods Pantry
If you have a dedicated pantry, this is for non-perishables. If not, use a tall, deep cupboard. This area requires good pantry storage ideas.
- What to store here: Canned goods, pasta, rice, flour, sugar, snacks.
The Dishware Zone
Store plates, bowls, and glasses near the dishwasher or dining area for easy unloading and setting the table.
Maximizing Kitchen Cabinet Space: Going Vertical and Deep
Many standard cabinets waste space above or below the stored items. Learning maximizing kitchen cabinet space involves using vertical storage and making the back of the cabinet reachable.
Using Risers and Shelves
The most common issue is deep cabinets where items in the back get lost.
- Best Kitchen Shelf Inserts: These are game-changers. Use wire shelves that stack on top of each other. They instantly create two levels where you only had one.
- Tiered Organizers: For spices or cans, tiered organizers let you see everything without moving things around.
Deep Cabinet Solutions
Deep cabinets are often “black holes.” Use these tools to pull things forward.
- Pull-Out Drawers: Converting standard shelves to pull-out drawers is highly recommended. You slide the whole unit out to reach the back.
- Lazy Susans (Turntables): Excellent for corner cabinets or deep shelves holding bottles (oils, vinegars) or small jars. A simple spin brings the back items to the front.
Utilizing Cabinet Doors
Don’t forget the inside of the door! This is prime, often unused real estate.
- Door Racks: Install shallow racks on the inside of cabinet doors. These are perfect for storing wraps (foil, plastic wrap), cutting boards, or even shallow spice tins.
Organizing Kitchen Cabinets: Shelf by Shelf Strategy
A systematic approach makes cupboard decluttering tips easier to apply. Empty one cabinet completely, clean it, and then put things back intentionally.
Upper Cabinets (Eye Level)
These spots are for things you use daily.
- Everyday Dishes: Plates, bowls, and mugs should be here. Stack them neatly.
- Glasses and Mugs: Keep these close to the coffee maker or dishwasher.
- Snack Items: Keep kid-friendly snacks in low, easily accessible upper cabinets if the children are old enough to reach.
Lower Cabinets (Knee Level)
These can handle heavier or less frequently used items.
- Pots and Pans: Because they are heavy, lower cabinets are safer for storing pots and pans. Use vertical dividers (see below) instead of stacking them directly on top of each other.
- Small Appliances: If you only use the waffle iron twice a year, put it on a lower shelf.
Corner Cabinets
Corner cabinets are awkward but hold a lot.
- Lazy Susans are Key: Use them for appliances you use often but don’t need constant access to, like a stand mixer base or large serving platters.
- Vertical Storage: Use tension rods placed vertically near the back to prop up large baking sheets and cooling racks, preventing them from sliding out.
Tackle the Spice Situation: Organizing Spice Rack Systems
Spices are often the messiest part of the kitchen. A good organizing spice rack system saves time and prevents buying duplicates.
Placement Matters
Should spices be near the stove or in the pantry?
- Near the Stove: Good for frequently used items like salt, pepper, oregano, and garlic powder. Heat and light can degrade spices over time, so use airtight containers if you choose this location.
- In the Pantry: Best for large collections or less-used spices.
Spice Storage Methods
| Method | Best For | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|---|
| Drawer Inserts | Small kitchens, large collections | All jars visible from above; keeps counter clear. | Requires dedicating prime drawer space. |
| Tiered Riser | Upper cabinets | Easy visual inventory. | Takes up shelf height. |
| Magnetic Tins | Refrigerator side or backsplash | Very space-efficient. | Tins must be high quality to prevent spills. |
| Door Racks | Keeping spices close to the cooking zone | Utilizes otherwise dead space. | Jars must be uniform size for a neat look. |
Tip: Transfer spices from bulky original containers into uniform, clear jars. Label the tops clearly if you are storing them in a drawer.
Solutions for Bulky Items: Storing Pots and Pans Efficiently
Storing pots and pans is a major challenge due to their irregular shapes and weight. Stacking them risks scratches and makes accessing the bottom pan a multi-step chore.
Vertical Dividers
Invest in adjustable vertical pot and lid racks. These metal organizers stand upright inside a lower cabinet.
- You slide each pot or pan into its own slot, just like files in a cabinet.
- This prevents scratching and makes grabbing the skillet you need instant.
Lid Management
Lids are often the real culprits.
- Over-the-Door Hooks: Use adhesive or screw-in hooks on the inside of the cabinet door to hang lids vertically by their handles.
- Tension Rod Hack: Place a tension rod inside the cabinet, slightly narrower than the opening. Hang the lids over the rod.
Nested Storage for Small Sets
If you have a cohesive set of pots (all the same brand), nesting them can still work, but only if you use protection. Place a felt pot protector or a thin dish towel between each pan before stacking.
Mastering Drawers: The Power of Dividers
Drawers offer fantastic storage, but without structure, they quickly become junk drawers. Drawer dividers for kitchen organization are non-negotiable for functional drawers.
Utensil Drawers
Use adjustable or interlocking drawer dividers to create custom sections for every type of tool.
- Spatulas and Whisks go in one long section.
- Forks and Knives (if not in a cutlery tray) go in narrower sections.
Junk Drawer Management
Even the “junk drawer” needs structure. Use small bins or repurposed containers (like clean take-out containers) to categorize miscellaneous items.
- Section 1: Batteries and tape.
- Section 2: Spare keys and rubber bands.
- Section 3: Takeout menus and twist ties.
Deep Drawer Organization
Deep drawers, common in modern kitchens, are perfect for bulky items if used correctly.
- Food Storage Containers: Store bases and lids separately. Use deep dividers to keep the bases stacked neatly, and use a shallow box or vertical dividers for the lids. Keep only the lids that match existing bases.
- Baking Supplies: Keep bags of chips or snacks contained in sturdy bins so they don’t spill open when the drawer slides.
Pantry Organization Ideas for Bulk and Variety
Effective pantry storage ideas ensure food stays fresh and you know what you have on hand.
Decanting Dry Goods
Transferring dry goods like flour, sugar, rice, pasta, and cereal into clear, airtight containers offers several benefits:
- Pest Control: Keeps bugs out.
- Freshness: Keeps food fresher longer.
- Visibility: You instantly see how much you have left.
- Aesthetics: Uniform containers look clean and organized.
When decanting, always label the container with the item name and the expiration date.
Canned Goods Strategy
Cans are heavy and stack poorly.
- First In, First Out (FIFO): Store older cans toward the front.
- Can Risers/Dispensers: These gravity-fed systems automatically move the oldest can to the front as you use the new ones stored in the back.
Snack Organization
Designate one shelf or bin for snacks. This is especially helpful for kids. Put all grab-and-go items (granola bars, crackers) into one labeled bin. This limits the mess to that one container.
Addressing Small Kitchen Storage Solutions
If you live in an apartment or older home, cabinets might be few and small. Small kitchen storage solutions focus on using every inch, often by going outside the main cupboard space.
Utilize Wall Space
When cupboards are maxed out, look up.
- Magnetic Knife Strips: Frees up drawer or counter space.
- Wall-Mounted Shelves: Install thin floating shelves for spices, oils, or frequently used mugs.
Over-the-Door Solutions
Beyond the cabinet door, use the back of the main kitchen door.
- Utility Shelving: A narrow shelving unit attached to the back of a door can hold paper goods, extra paper towels, or rarely used small appliances.
Slim Rolling Carts
If you have a narrow gap between the fridge and the wall, or between cabinets, a slim rolling cart is excellent for narrow items:
- Spices
- Oils and vinegars
- Cleaning supplies
The Decluttering Process: Making It Stick
Regular maintenance is crucial. Use these cupboard decluttering tips to keep your space organized long-term.
The Four-Box Method
When emptying a cabinet, use four boxes or piles:
- Keep: Items used regularly that belong in that zone.
- Relocate: Items that belong elsewhere in the kitchen (e.g., the flashlight found in the baking cabinet).
- Donate/Give Away: Items you don’t use or duplicate tools.
- Trash: Expired food, broken items, or packaging.
The One-Year Rule
If you have not used an item in a year (excluding seasonal items like a turkey baster), seriously consider getting rid of it. Kitchen space is valuable.
Routine Check-Ins
Schedule a mini-declutter session every three months. This prevents overwhelming seasonal cleanouts. Focus on one zone each time, like checking expiration dates in the pantry or reorganizing the utensil drawer.
Storing Specific Problem Items
Some items present unique storage headaches. Here is how to handle them cleanly.
Food Storage Containers (Lids and Bases)
This is a common frustration. The goal is modularity.
- Match Sets: Get rid of any container that has lost its lid or any lid that doesn’t fit a current container. Be ruthless.
- Vertical Lid Storage: Use small file sorters or dedicated lid organizers within a deep drawer or low cabinet. This keeps lids standing up and accessible.
- Nesting Bases: Stack the container bases vertically inside a bin or use adjustable dividers to keep them separated.
Cleaning Supplies
Safety is paramount here.
- Under the Sink: Use stackable, clear bins on a shelf or riser. Store bottles with the nozzle facing up for easy pouring.
- Safety First: Use locking bins or secure cabinets if children are present. Never store harsh chemicals above eye level or near food items.
Baking Supplies
Baking involves many small bags and odd containers.
- Air-Tight Containers: Essential for preventing pests and keeping moisture out of flour, yeast, and sprinkles.
- Cookie Sheets and Trays: Store these vertically using dividers in a low cabinet or on the inside of a pantry door.
Summary of Smart Organization Tools
Investing in a few key items makes organizing kitchen cabinets much easier.
| Tool Category | Purpose | Where to Use It |
|---|---|---|
| Tiered Risers | Visibility for small items | Spice cabinets, canned goods. |
| Lazy Susans | Easy access to deep corners | Corner cabinets, deep shelves for oils. |
| Vertical Dividers | Separating flat/heavy items | Lower cabinets for pots, pans, baking sheets. |
| Drawer Dividers | Creating structure in open space | Utensil drawers, junk drawers, deep storage drawers. |
| Airtight Canisters | Maintaining freshness and look | Dry goods (flour, sugar, pasta). |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I store spices near the stove?
Yes, you can store frequently used spices near the stove, but use high-quality, airtight containers. Excessive heat and steam from cooking can reduce the potency and flavor of spices faster than storing them in a cooler pantry.
What is the best way to organize mismatched Tupperware?
The best way is to match what you can. Then, store the bases nested (stacked) in one section, and stand all the lids upright vertically in a dedicated divider or box. Discard any piece that hasn’t found its match in six months.
How can I organize heavy items like cast iron skillets?
Store cast iron skillets in a lower cabinet. Avoid stacking more than two high. If possible, use a pull-out shelf system or a sturdy vertical divider designed for heavy cookware so you can slide the skillet out rather than lifting heavy stacks.
Where should I keep my plastic wrap and aluminum foil?
These are best stored vertically. The inside of a cabinet door using adhesive racks, or inside a deep drawer using a simple file organizer, works well. Keep them near the food prep or cleaning zone.
How do I keep my reorganized cabinets tidy long-term?
Implement the “one in, one out” rule for new purchases if space is tight. Do a quick visual check every time you unload the dishwasher, taking 30 seconds to put things back exactly where they belong. Schedule a deep reset of one cabinet quarterly.