Nothing feels as constricting and frustrating as a small, poorly organized kitchen. They get messy quickly, and they’re terrible for entertaining. Small kitchens are an unfortunate reality for many homeowners, but they don’t have to be a life sentence.

With some smart upgrades and strategic systemization, you can streamline your small kitchen. Here are some storage tips to make your kitchen feel bigger, regardless of its size.

Get Custom Cabinets

Cabinets tend to have a lot of wasted space. Stationary shelves make it impossible to see what’s been pushed to the back of the cupboard. Those big, open cupboards turn into a mess of pots and pans. The solution to this problem? Invest in a custom cabinet upgrade.

Consider some of your pain points and work with a cabinet expert to solve them. Think of installing pull-out shelves on wheels or small trundle storage for spices between larger cabinets. Get RTA kitchen cabinets that not only fit your space but work with it instead of against it.

Also consider a range hood insert for your custom hood to give your kitchen a professional look.

Use Vertical Space Wisely

When looking for storage solutions in your kitchen, don’t forget to look up. Look way up. If you aren’t using the vertical space in your kitchen, you’re doing yourself a disservice. The space over your doors and windows are perfect for shelving that could provide additional storage for infrequently used appliances. An open wall could become home to a pegboard or floating shelves. 

In many kitchens, the vertical space is used for art and decor. Think about how you can make your kitchen tools into a work of art. For example, spices decanted into mason jars look rustic while offering functional storage. 

Display Your Dishes

When it comes to storage, many people get stuck on the idea that they have to hide things away. In fact, traditional cabinets are designed based on that belief. Instead of worrying about your cupboard space, consider how you can display your dishes.

Whether you opt for shelves or counter displays, the key is to keep things looking organized and tidy. 

Hide Your Appliances

Appliances are big and bulky and take up way too much counter space. To make more room, hide your appliances in cupboards. Getting custom cabinets can help you with this task. Otherwise, use wasted space that you have and have plugs installed so that you can use your microwave without it being on the counter.

Use Hooks and Hangers

Hooks and hangers are one of the easiest solutions for small kitchen storage. You can install a metal rod in that prime real estate along your ceiling and use s-hooks to hang pots, pans, and utensils. You know that small hole that’s at the bottom of your slotted spoon? That exists so that you can hang it up.

You can also install smaller hooks and hangers along your backsplash or on the bottom of your cabinets to hang mugs and other space-wasting dishes.

Add Backsplash Shelves

Forget the traditional tile backsplash. Instead, install some backsplash shelves. There are a few ways to go about this. One option is to section off a small area where shelves will be installed. Find wood to match your cabinets to create a frame, install the shelves, and enjoy the extra storage space. This approach is ideal for corners, where you can’t use the space effectively.

Another approach is to install some acrylic floating shelves over the backsplash. This adds effective storage for spices and tools without taking away from the decor.

Get Drawer Organizers

If custom cabinets are out of the question, invest in some custom drawer organizers to fit your space. These are easy to DIY and can keep things orderly and efficient. For larger cupboards and cabinets, repurpose old magazine racks or purchase some portable cabinet organizers from a local department store.

The key to adding storage solutions for a small kitchen is to plan first, buy later. Don’t install shelves or buy containers unless you have a clear idea of your needs. Otherwise, you’ll make things more chaotic in the long run.

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