Fit More in Less: 12 Smart Storage Hacks for Your Narrow Kitchen
Is your tiny kitchen bursting at the seams? Narrow cabinets and limited space make kitchen organization a challenge. But with some clever solutions, you can transform even the skinniest kitchen into a functional, clutter-free zone. You'll learn how to maximize every inch of your narrow kitchen using specialized organizers, space-saving furniture, and more.
Whether you rent a studio apartment or own a small home, you can overcome narrow kitchen storage woes. Read on to unlock your kitchen's full potential!
Optimize Existing Cabinets
Before bringing in any new storage elements, optimize what you already have. Take advantage of often-overlooked spaces within existing cabinetry.
Use Pull-Out Drawers
Swap regular shelves for full extension drawer slides to maximize deep, narrow base cabinets. Pull-out drawers bring everything to the front where you can easily see and grab items. Prevent a messy jumble of pots and lids by installing drawer organizers or dividers to section off cooking tools, serving ware, and more.
For a DIY option, mount slides then make customized compartments from inexpensive materials like pegboard panels and wire storage cubes. Not only will everything have a designated spot, but you’ll free up more usable space than static shelves.
Install Spinning “Lazy Susans”
Lazy susans are turntable trays perfect for revamping frustrating corner cabinets. Just insert one on a base cabinet's existing shelf to create an easily accessible storage spot.
Spinning lazy susans make items in those hard-to-reach corners available with a simple turn. No more unpacking an entire cabinet to grab a single saucepan. Look for models with smooth ball bearings for effortless spinning. For a thriftier choice, use an old cake stand or DIY a lazy susan from household items.
Go Vertical with Shelving
Since horizontal space is limited, utilize vertical real estate inside cabinets with racks, rails and tiered shelving. Mount a wall-mounted rail across cabinet backs for stacking items like cutting boards and baking sheets upright. Or, install a vertical divider to neatly organize pans and lids.
Tiered shelves instantly double your usable space. For a quick fix, use risers to elevate a shelf. For a more built-in look, install stacked shelves with integrated rails. Use the lower levels for larger items like mixers and food processors. Then organize spices, serving pieces and other sundries on the upper shelves within easy reach.
Supplement With Additional Storage Elements
Once your original cabinets are optimized, bring in some supplemental storage pieces. Think multifunctional furniture that pulls double duty.
Mount Spice Racks
Free up prime real estate by mounting rails or shelves specifically for spices and seasonings. Mounting a spice rack inside a cabinet door creates an organized spot while keeping jars visible at a glance. For open shelves, go for tiered racks to double your space.
Displaying spices also prevents duplication. It’s easy to end up with 4 jars of oregano when they’re buried behind other items. Visible storage helps you use what you already have before buying more.
DIY Under-Cabinet Storage
Take advantage of the often under-used space between your counters and cabinets. Install a rail across the underside to hang utensils or pots. Or attach a row of hooks for mugs and cups.
For a more enclosed option, mount cubbies to hold small appliances like blenders and toaster ovens. Just be sure to measure carefully so drawers and cabinet doors open properly.
Repurpose Furniture as Storage
Think creatively about household items you can repurpose. For example, a rolling cart or unused hutch tucked in a corner creates a movable pantry. Top it with baskets or storage bins for a clutter-free way to corral dried goods, breakfast items and extra small appliances.
Islands on locking wheels also provide narrow kitchens bonus storage and prep space. Look for ones with shelves, drawers and racks to optimize the footprint. Then roll it out of the way when not in use.
Optimize Wall and Countertop Space
Take storage up to the walls and incorporate your countertops for maximum efficiency. Use organizational elements tailored to these areas’ dimensions and purposes.
Shelving Against Walls
Introduce wall-mounted elements like floating shelves and rails. Floating shelves lining an empty wall or bracketed into corners are great for displaying decorative items or cookbooks while keeping counters clear. For a dedicated surface, a wall-mounted knife or utensil rail saves precious drawers space while keeping essentials in reach.
Counter Top Organization
Don’t overlook the valuable real estate of your counters. For utensils and gadgets, use compartmentalized drawer organizers, vertical knife blocks, or mounted racks. Keep spices and oils accessible but tidy with countertop turntables and tiered stands.
Just be sure to leave adequate workspace. Counter space comes at a premium in tiny kitchens, so be judicious about permanent items.
While narrow layouts present unique challenges, innovative storage keeps cramped kitchens organized. Make the most of what you have by fully utilizing cabinets, walls, furniture and counters.
With specialized organizers, enhanced shelving, and multipurpose furniture, you can gain back precious space. Use these storage hacks to keep essentials at hand while minimizing visual clutter. Before you know it, you'll have a Pinterest-worthy tiny kitchen perfect for cooking and entertaining.