how to organize your kitchen cabinets
May 10, 2025
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The kitchen is one of the most used rooms in the home, especially if you're an enthusiastic home cook or foodie. So, keeping things tidy and stylish can feel more like a pipe dream; something people do on Instagram but not in real life. In real life, utensils and appliances fight for space in drawers, obscure spice mixtures get lost in a sea of jars, and ill-fitting pots and pans stack one on top of the other.
1. Empty & Clean
Remove everything: Take all items out of cabinets.
Wipe shelves: Use a microfiber cloth and mild cleaner (e.g., vinegar + water).
Check for damage: Repair shelf liners or adjust sagging shelves.
2. Categorize & Declutter
Sort items into groups:
Cookware (pots, pans)
Bakeware (sheets, muffin tins)
Dishes (plates, bowls)
Food storage (Tupperware, wraps)
Utensils (spatulas, ladles)
Miscellaneous (appliances, seasonal items)
Declutter ruthlessly:
Toss expired food, chipped dishes, and unused gadgets.
Donate duplicates (do you need 3 cheese graters?).
KonMari tip: Keep only what sparks joy or is used weekly.
3. Design Zones
Organize cabinets based on usage frequency and workflow:
Prime real estate (eye-level shelves): Daily-use items (plates, mugs, spices).
Lower cabinets: Heavy pots, mixing bowls, or small appliances (slow cooker).
Upper cabinets: Lightweight, occasional items (wine glasses, holiday platters).
Near the stove: Cooking oils, spices, utensils.
Near the sink: Cleaning supplies, dish towels.
4. Use Smart Storage Solutions
Shelf risers: Double vertical space for plates or spice jars.
Lazy Susans: Perfect for corner cabinets or oils/vinegars.
Drawer dividers: Organize utensils, cutlery, or wraps/foil.
Tension rods: Create vertical dividers for baking sheets or lids.
Clear bins/baskets: Group snacks, tea bags, or pantry staples.
Hooks: Install inside doors for measuring cups or pot lids.
Under-shelf baskets: Add storage for mugs or small jars.
5. Optimize Awkward Spaces
Corner cabinets: Use a rotating tray (e.g., LeMotech) for accessibility.
Deep cabinets: Pull-out shelves or tiered organizers (e.g., IKEA VARIERA).
Above the fridge: Store rarely used appliances (bread maker, roasting pan).
6. Label Strategically
Label bins: Use a label maker for clear visibility (e.g., "Snacks," "Baking Supplies").
Expiration dates: Mark opened jars/packages with a masking tape + Sharpie.
7. Maintain the System
Daily habit: Return items to their designated spots.
Monthly review: Toss expired goods and reassess zones.
Seasonal purge: Donate unused gadgets or dishes.
Pro Tips
Go vertical: Stack pots/pans with lid organizers (e.g., PanTree).
Light it up: Add motion-sensor LED strips inside dark cabinets.
Childproof: Keep breakables and chemicals in locked upper cabinets.
Budget-Friendly Hacks
Repurpose shoeboxes as drawer dividers.
Use mason jars for bulk spices or pasta.
Line shelves with adhesive wallpaper for a fresh look.
Cost & Time
Cost: 20–20–20–100 (for organizers) vs. $300+ for custom pull-outs.
Time: 3–6 hours (depending on kitchen size).
An organized kitchen saves time, reduces stress, and makes cooking a joy!