A cluttered kitchen makes cooking stressful, but with the right organization strategies, you can maximize space, find everything easily, and create a Pinterest-worthy setup. Whether you have a small kitchen or just need a smarter system, these 20 game-changing organization methods will transform your cabinets. Plus, we’ve included some must-have Amazon finds to make it effortless!
1. Use Stackable Shelf Organizers
source @simplyorganized
Stackable shelf organizers are a simple yet highly effective way to double your cabinet space instantly. Instead of piling dishes, bowls, or pantry items on top of each other—where they risk toppling over—you can create multiple levels of storage. This method keeps everything visible and within reach while preventing smaller items from getting buried. These shelves come in different sizes and materials, from expandable wire racks to wooden designs that match your cabinetry. If you have deep cabinets, opt for an adjustable version that lets you customize the height based on your needs.
2. Install Pull-Out Cabinet Drawers
source @designwithintegrity
Traditional cabinets with fixed shelving can make it difficult to access items stored at the back. That’s where pull-out cabinet drawers come in! These slide-out organizers function like a drawer inside your cabinets, allowing you to retrieve heavy pots, pans, or pantry goods with ease. No more awkwardly reaching or knocking things over just to get to the back! Available in various styles, including wood, wire, and soft-close options, pull-out drawers are a must-have for deep cabinets. If you want a seamless look, opt for custom-built inserts, or choose an Amazon find that can be installed in minutes with just a screwdriver.
3. Store Spices in a Tiered Rack
source @_everything_elegant_ke
If your spice collection is a chaotic mess of mismatched bottles and random seasonings, a tiered spice rack is a game-changer. These racks create a stair-step effect inside your cabinet, ensuring that every jar is visible at a glance—no more knocking over ten bottles just to find the paprika! Some models come with a non-slip surface, preventing bottles from shifting every time you open the cabinet. For even better organization, transfer spices into uniform glass jars with labels and store them on a tiered shelf. If you want to keep your spices even more accessible, consider a pull-down or rotating spice rack that brings everything within reach.
4. Utilize Over-the-Door Storage
source @modernandminimalist
Your cabinet doors offer valuable but often overlooked storage space. By adding over-the-door organizers, you can neatly store items like cutting boards, aluminum foil, plastic wrap, cleaning supplies, or even spices without taking up precious shelf space. Many of these organizers simply hook over the door, requiring no installation, while others can be mounted securely with screws or adhesive strips. Look for ones with multiple compartments if you need to store a variety of items. This is a great solution for renters since they can be removed easily without leaving damage.
5. Add Lazy Susans for Hard-to-Reach Items
source @havenhomeorganize
A Lazy Susan is one of the simplest yet most effective tools for organizing deep or corner cabinets. These spinning trays allow you to access oils, condiments, canned goods, or baking supplies with a quick spin instead of rummaging through cluttered shelves. They come in different sizes, with some featuring raised edges to prevent items from tipping over. If you want an upgrade, opt for a two-tier Lazy Susan to maximize vertical space or one with adjustable dividers to keep everything categorized.
6. Invest in Clear Bins for Pantry Items
source @sixberhomedecor
Clear storage bins are a must-have for keeping pantry staples neat and easy to find. Instead of juggling messy bags of snacks, flour, sugar, or pasta, transfer them into clear, airtight containers. Not only does this create a uniform and visually appealing look, but it also helps keep food fresh longer. Stackable bins are perfect for grouping similar items together, whether it’s breakfast essentials, canned goods, or grab-and-go snacks for the kids. Look for bins with built-in handles to make pulling them out of the cabinet effortless.
7. Use Dividers for Baking Sheets & Cutting Boards
source @mostorganizedspace
If your baking sheets, muffin tins, and cutting boards are always toppling over, dividers are the perfect solution. Instead of stacking them horizontally, place them vertically with the help of an adjustable rack or a simple tension rod system. This keeps everything standing upright, making it easy to grab exactly what you need without creating a domino effect. Some organizers even feature multiple compartments to separate different sizes and types of bakeware.
8. Try Adjustable Tension Rods for Vertical Storage
source @rembesha_essentials_
Tension rods aren’t just for hanging curtains—they can be a brilliant organization tool inside your kitchen cabinets. By placing tension rods vertically within a cabinet, you can create dividers to neatly separate baking sheets, trays, cutting boards, and even pot lids. This prevents them from sliding around and keeps everything upright for easy access. Another clever trick is using horizontal tension rods to create makeshift shelf dividers, which can help corral lightweight pantry items like bags of snacks or rolls of foil. The best part? Tension rods are adjustable and require no drilling, making them perfect for renters or those looking for a temporary solution.
9. Install Under-Cabinet Hooks for Mugs
If your mug collection is overflowing, it’s time to reclaim some space with under-cabinet hooks. These hooks allow you to hang mugs underneath shelves, freeing up valuable cabinet space for plates and bowls. This also makes it incredibly convenient to grab a coffee mug in the morning without having to shuffle through stacks of cups. Look for sturdy adhesive or screw-in hooks that can hold the weight of multiple mugs. You can also use this method for hanging small kitchen tools like measuring cups or cooking utensils.
10. Label Everything for a Streamlined Look
source @organizedtolivewell
A well-organized kitchen isn’t just about storage—it’s also about maintaining order. Labels are an easy yet effective way to keep everything in its designated spot and ensure everyone in the household knows where things belong. Whether you prefer chalkboard labels, printed stickers, or a label maker, adding clear labels to your pantry bins, spice jars, and storage containers enhances both functionality and aesthetics. For a cohesive look, transfer dry goods like rice, pasta, and flour into uniform storage jars and add matching labels.
11. Hang Measuring Cups & Spoons Inside Cabinet Doors
source @posh.abodes
Measuring cups and spoons can quickly become a tangled mess in drawers, making it frustrating to find the right size when cooking or baking. A simple but genius solution is to hang them on hooks inside a cabinet door. You can use adhesive hooks, small nails, or even a magnetic strip to keep them neatly arranged. For an added touch of convenience, consider labeling each hook with the corresponding measurement so you can grab the exact size you need at a glance.
12. Use Wire Shelf Risers for Glassware & Plates
source @getopenspaces
Maximizing vertical space is key to an organized kitchen, and wire shelf risers help you do just that. These clever inserts create extra layers within your cabinets, allowing you to stack dishes, glasses, or pantry goods without creating unstable piles. Instead of precariously balancing smaller plates on top of larger ones, a riser allows you to keep them separate and easily accessible. They work wonders for organizing coffee mugs, canned goods, and even spices. Choose adjustable risers if you want the flexibility to customize your shelving heights.
13. Install a Slide-Out Trash & Recycling Bin
source @frugalkitchens
Trash cans and recycling bins can be an eyesore, especially if they take up valuable kitchen floor space. A slide-out trash and recycling system keeps them hidden inside a cabinet while still being easy to access. These pull-out bins mount to the bottom of a cabinet and glide smoothly on tracks, making waste disposal more convenient. Some models even come with separate compartments for sorting recyclables, helping you stay eco-friendly while keeping your kitchen neat.
14. Organize Pots & Lids with a Rack
source @thesouvenirwhisperer_
One of the biggest pain points in kitchen organization is dealing with clunky pots and their mismatched lids. Stacking them haphazardly can lead to a chaotic mess, making it a struggle to find the right-sized lid when you need it. A dedicated pot and lid organizer rack solves this issue by keeping everything neatly stored and easy to grab. Vertical lid racks can be mounted inside cabinet doors, while horizontal organizers keep pots nested efficiently. If you have deep drawers, a pull-out pot organizer is a fantastic upgrade for quick and effortless access.
15. Keep Snacks in Clear, Stackable Bins
source @mdesign
Snack clutter can take over your cabinets in no time, especially if you have kids who love grabbing a bag of chips or granola bars on the go. The solution? Clear, stackable storage bins that allow you to see exactly what you have while keeping snacks neatly contained. Separate bins for different categories—such as chips, crackers, granola bars, and nuts—make it easy to grab what you need without rummaging through messy shelves. If you want to take it a step further, label each bin so the whole family knows where to find their favorite treats.
16. Store Bulk Items in Airtight Containers
source @luxury_homes_collections_ke
Buying in bulk can save money, but keeping large bags of flour, sugar, rice, or cereal organized can be a challenge. Instead of leaving them in their original packaging—where they can easily spill or go stale—transfer them into airtight storage containers. This not only preserves freshness but also prevents pantry pests. Opt for stackable, BPA-free plastic or glass containers with secure lids to create a uniform, clutter-free pantry. Many come with built-in measurement markings or easy-pour spouts, making cooking and baking even more convenient.
17. Use Drawer Inserts for Utensils & Tools
source @gravellanedesign
Kitchen drawers can quickly become a jumbled mess of utensils, spatulas, and random gadgets if they’re not properly organized. A drawer insert or cutlery tray helps keep everything separated and easy to find. Instead of digging through a tangled pile of tools, each item has a designated slot, making meal prep smoother. Expandable drawer organizers are ideal because they adjust to fit different drawer sizes and can accommodate both standard silverware and larger kitchen tools.
18. Set Up a Coffee or Tea Station
source @organizebynina
If you’re a coffee or tea lover, having a dedicated cabinet or shelf for all your essentials can streamline your morning routine. Designate a space to store coffee pods, tea bags, mugs, sweeteners, and stirrers so everything is in one convenient spot. Use a spinning coffee pod holder, labeled jars for sugar and creamers, and a stackable mug rack to keep things organized. If you have a small kitchen, consider using a pull-out drawer or a rolling cart for a compact and mobile coffee station.
19. Keep Plastic Containers Neatly Stacked
source @shop_stori
Nothing is more frustrating than opening a cabinet and having plastic food storage containers spill out in an avalanche. To avoid this chaos, invest in a lid organizer that keeps tops neatly separated from the containers. Nesting your containers inside each other saves space, while a dedicated lid rack prevents the dreaded “where’s the matching lid?” struggle. Some organizing sets come with interlocking lids that snap onto the base, ensuring they always stay together.
20. Install Motion-Sensor Cabinet Lights
source @thewrightkitchen
Dark cabinets can make it hard to find what you’re looking for, especially in deep storage areas. Motion-sensor LED lights are a quick and affordable upgrade that brightens your space instantly. These battery-operated, stick-on lights turn on automatically when you open the cabinet, providing instant illumination without the need for electrical wiring. They’re particularly useful for under-sink storage, pantry shelves, and deep corner cabinets. Choose rechargeable or long-lasting battery models for a hassle-free setup
