Organizing a kitchen can seem like a big job, but with a few smart ideas, you can make your space more functional and a joy to use. Here are some of my favorite tips to help you get started.

Declutter First

Before you buy any organizers, the first step is to get rid of what you don’t need.

• The “Rule of Three”: If you have three or more of the same item (like spatulas or whisks), keep your favorites and donate or toss the rest.
• Check Expiration Dates: Go through your pantry and fridge and throw out any expired food, spices, or sauces.
• Remove Unused Appliances: Do you have a bread maker or a slow cooker you never use? Store it in a closet or basement, or give it away.

Smart Storage for Cabinets and Drawers

Making the most of the space you have is key.

• Drawer Dividers: Use adjustable dividers to separate your utensils, cutlery, and kitchen gadgets.
• Pull-Out Shelves: Install pull-out drawers in your lower cabinets. This is great for heavy items like pots and pans, making them easy to access without having to dig.
• Vertical Storage: Use tension rods or wire racks to create extra vertical space. You can hang pan lids on the inside of cabinet doors or use a rack to store baking sheets and cutting boards vertically.
• Lazy Susans (Turntables): These are perfect for corner cabinets or deep pantries. They let you easily see and reach everything, from spices to condiments.

Pantry and Refrigerator Ideas

A well-organized pantry and fridge make meal prep so much easier.

• Clear Containers: Transfer dry goods like pasta, rice, and cereal into clear, airtight containers. This keeps food fresh and lets you see exactly what you have.
• Group Similar Items: Keep all your breakfast items together, all your baking supplies in one area, and all your snacks in a designated basket. This is the “zone” method.
• Use Bins and Baskets: Put smaller items like granola bars, seasoning packets, or condiment pouches into bins. It keeps things from getting lost and makes the space look much cleaner.

Using Wall Space

If you have a small kitchen, think about using your walls for storage.

• Magnetic Strips: A magnetic knife strip is a classic for saving drawer space, but you can also use one to hold metal spice jars.
• Pegboards: Install a pegboard on an empty wall. You can use it to hang pots, pans, and utensils, creating a functional and stylish display.
• Floating Shelves: Add open shelves to display your favorite cookbooks, mugs, or glassware. It frees up cabinet space and adds a personal touch to your kitchen.