Smart Ways to Organize a Small Kitchen (Even If You Have Too Much Stuff!)

Let’s be real—when you’ve got a small kitchen and a mountain of appliances, utensils, and crockery, it can feel like a constant game of Tetris. You know the drill: toaster next to the blender that’s balanced on top of the food processor you use once every six months. But even in a tiny kitchen, there is hope. With some thoughtful planning and a few clever tricks, you can create a space that actually works for you (and doesn’t give you anxiety every time you cook).

This post is all about practical, tried-and-true ways to make the most of your space—without sacrificing your favorite tools or turning your kitchen into a war zone.

Step 1: Start with a Serious Declutter

Before you even think about organizing, do a ruthless edit. I know, it’s tough. But it makes all the difference.

• Let go of what you don’t use: That air fryer you swore you’d use every day? If it’s collecting dust, store it elsewhere or donate it.
• Keep what you use most: The things you reach for daily—coffee maker, cutting board, a good chef’s knife—should be easily accessible.
• Edit duplicates: Do you really need eight spatulas? Probably not. Keep your favorites and let go of the rest.

Step 2: Use Every Vertical Inch

This is where the magic happens. Vertical space is your best friend in a small kitchen.

• Add open shelving: Great for things you use all the time—like mugs, spices, or dishes. Plus, it looks pretty.
• Install hooks and rods: Hang up your most-used utensils, pans, and tools. It frees up drawers and cabinets.
• Magnetic knife strips: Say goodbye to bulky knife blocks. Mount a strip on the wall and enjoy the extra counter space.
• Pegboards: Inspired by Julia Child, these are perfect for hanging cookware and tools. Bonus: they look charmingly vintage.

Step 3: Don’t Forget the Top of Cabinets

That space above your cabinets? Pure gold.

• Baskets or bins: Use them to stash rarely used appliances or backstock pantry items. Label them so you don’t forget what’s inside.
• Wine racks or stemware storage: If you like wine, use the space for a sleek display that doubles as storage.
• Stacking shelf inserts: Add levels to underused vertical space inside cabinets too.

Step 4: Tame the Chaos Inside Cabinets and Drawers

Getting the inside of your cabinets organized makes cooking way easier.

• Drawer organizers: Adjustable ones are perfect for sorting utensils, cutlery, and kitchen tools.
• Roll-out trays and lazy Susans: These let you see everything in deep cabinets without digging.
• Vertical racks for plates and lids: Stack smart, not high. Keep things tidy and easy to grab.
• Under-shelf baskets: These clip on and create a bonus shelf inside your cabinets. Great for snacks or cups.

Step 5: Choose Stackable and Multi-Use Tools

If something nests, stacks, or collapses, it belongs in your kitchen.

• Nesting bowls and cups: Save tons of space without giving up variety.
• Stackable storage: Use uniform containers for pantry goods, leftovers, or dry goods.
• Collapsible colanders and measuring cups: Genius for saving drawer space.
• Magnetic spice jars: Stick them to the fridge or a magnetic board to free up a cabinet.

Step 6: Create Dedicated Zones

Organizing by activity makes your kitchen feel more intuitive.

• Cooking zone: Keep pots, pans, and cooking utensils near the stove.
• Prep zone: Cutting boards, knives, and mixing bowls should live where you prep.
• Cleaning zone: Sponges, dish soap, and trash bags all belong near the sink.
• Baking zone: Store baking trays, mixers, and measuring tools together.

Step 7: Make Cabinet Doors Work Harder

This space is often overlooked, but it’s a game changer.

• Spice racks: Door-mounted racks keep spices organized and off the counter.
• Hooks or bins: Hang measuring spoons, pot holders, or foil boxes.
• Message center: Stick a chalkboard panel inside a door for meal planning or grocery lists.

Step 8: Slide in a Slim Rolling Cart

If you’ve got a gap between appliances, fill it with a slim rolling cart. Perfect for oils, spices, snacks, or even cleaning supplies.

Step 9: Label Everything

Labeling isn’t just cute—it helps you keep things where they belong. Transparent containers also help you see what you’ve got (and avoid buying duplicates).

Step 10: Embrace a Minimalist Mindset

Even with the best organization hacks, too much stuff is still too much. Keep evaluating what you really use. Donate, gift, or store the rest elsewhere.

REMEMBER… You’ve Got This

Organizing a small kitchen isn’t about perfection—it’s about creating a space that works for you. With the right mix of smart storage, creativity, and a little decluttering courage, even the tiniest kitchen can feel functional and peaceful. Try a few of these ideas, adapt them to your style, and before you know it, your kitchen will feel like a whole new space.