50 Storage Tips and Ideas for a Small Kitchen (1)

Do you also have a small kitchen, or at least you always feel like you are running out of space in this room? It has been my case since I moved. And knowing that I can’t push the walls or break them, I chose to put aside all the most useful and practical tips to better live a small kitchen.

1. Choose open shelves

Choose open shelves (1)

In this small kitchen , the storage space is also optimized up to the ceiling, but with open shelves.

2. Dare to have an original and tailor-made layout

Dare to have an original and tailor-made layout (1)

This small kitchen is very well thought out, the space is optimized up to the ceiling with these wall units which are made to measure to adapt to the configuration of the room.

3. Make made-to-measure storage

Make made-to-measure storage (1)

Each kitchen is unique … Make the storage you need in your small kitchen. If, for example, you have wine bottles to store, install a vertical column or a wall-mounted wine rack, less bulky than a rack.

4. Take advantage of this piece of furniture to install additional shelves

Take advantage of this piece of furniture to install additional shelves (1)

Because there is always a lack of practical storage in a small kitchen , plan for additional open shelves to store recipe books or even dishes. You can even place a few small decorative objects there! This piece of furniture is also used as a dining area to eat on the go or as an extension of the work plan. Here, the bar cabinet is made with 2 open shelves.

5. Hang wall brackets to hang the chairs

Hang wall brackets to hang the chairs (1)

An interesting and ingenious idea to optimize space in a small kitchen. Provide wall hooks for hanging folding chairs . This trick helps to free up floor space while avoiding overcrowding it.

6. Attach bars, supports and storage to your splashback

Attach bars, supports and storage to your splashback (1)

If you do not want to install tall units in your small kitchen, you may run out of space to store dishes, appliances and utensils. To deal with this problem , install credenza bars to hang accessories , which will free up space in your closets and drawers.

7. Hang shelves from the credenza bar

Hang shelves from the credenza bar (1)

The advantage of the credenza bar ? Its modular aspect. It is not limited to the storage of utensils. To make it multifunctional and even more practical, hang small shelves to store spices, pots, aromatic plants, etc.

8. Also add hooks

Also add hooks (1)

It is the inexpensive and yet essential accessory to really optimize the function of the credenza bar. Buy some S-hooks, these useful items are very functional for hanging kitchen utensils and linens and handy for maximizing space in a small kitchen and avoiding overloading cupboards, drawers or cluttering the countertop of work.

9. Install a magnetic wall rail for the knives

Install a magnetic wall rail for the knives (1)

This magnetic bar to be installed on the backsplash of the small kitchen allows easy access to the different knives for cooking. Yes, it’s messy… And this argument against open shelves comes up every time. But these storage units are also very practical, and decorative! They are even thought to be particularly suitable for small kitchens.

Judge for yourself as you browse through these ideas of small kitchens with open shelving.

10. Hang your mugs and cups on open shelves

Hang your mugs and cups on open shelves (1)

Another great reason to have open shelving in your small kitchen. You can easily attach hooks to it that will help you hang your cups and mugs! It is practical, very easy to install and really inexpensive … You just need to buy a few hooks.

11. Fix a wall perforated panel to hang everything

Fix a wall perforated panel to hang everything (1)

The perforated panel, or pegboard, is a storage system that is generally found in workshops or offices. This arrangement is also very suitable for small kitchens.

It allows you to take advantage of a beautiful open space for the storage of all accessories and utensils, and to replace too bulky furniture that takes up too much volume and space.

12. Place the most used accessories and utensils there

Place the most used accessories and utensils there (1)

This little kitchen has it all. The perforated panel is an ultra-functional space where all the accessories are close at hand. On the open shelves, the dishes are perfectly organized. To gain storage space, additional small shelves are used.

The accessories for the coffee are grouped together and are placed on a tray. Convenient to clean the worktop, just move the tray rather than each object individually.

13. Cover the entire wall with a perforated panel

Cover the entire wall with a perforated panel (1)

f you have the budget for a custom fabrication and installation, or you are a DIYer, dare a pegboard that covers the entire wall of your small kitchen. The result? Ultra-optimized and perfectly modular storage space. Each shelf can be repositioned in different places as needed.

14. Cover part of the central island with a perforated panel

Cover part of the central island with a perforated panel (1)

There is no lack of good ideas in this small kitchen! We love this central island on wheels covered with a perforated panel to gain flexible storage space. Also note the recuperation & space saving trick to store all the bulky pots and pans: recycle a ladder to hang from the ceiling to transform it into hanging storage.

15. Install a folding table

Install a folding table (1)

Ask the furniture to fold for you… and not the other way around! As with the arrangement of a small garden , we favor folding furniture when there is a lack of space in the small kitchen. In this kitchen with limited space, it is difficult to install a table which may overcrowd the space and make circulation difficult.

The most practical solution? Fix a wall table to unfold as soon as you want to eat there. This practical table is equipped with a small shelf that turns into a storage shelf.

16. Install a multifunctional space-saving cabinet

Install a multifunctional space-saving cabinet (1)

Well thought out, this multifunctional piece of furniture is particularly suited to the constraints of fitting out a small kitchen. It turns into a side table and can store dishes, accessories, utensils.

Practical detail, the pocket to slip in books or magazines. Not cumbersome when folded up because it is shallow, this piece of furniture does not obstruct traffic.

17. Hide drawers in the plinths

Hide drawers in the plinths (1)

You had to think about it! The drawers are hidden in the plinths to gain storage space in small kitchens.

18. Slide a master key storage on wheels

Slide a master key storage on wheels (1)

This cart on wheels slides between furniture, walls and appliances. You choose how to use it. You can store breakfast food, utensils, accessories, cleaning products, etc.

19. Hang this suction cup shelf on the side of your fridge

Hang this suction cup shelf on the side of your fridge (1)

This suction cup shelf is attached to the side of the fridge to save storage space. Super practical and functional for small kitchens! 3 shelves for storing spices, pots, crockery and a bar for hanging tea towels and small hooks for accessories and utensils for easy access.

20. Install magnetic pots

Install magnetic pots (1)

Magnetic pots that are installed on the fridge, to have aromatic plants within reach. They can also be used to store utensils or cutlery.

21. Use the sides of the furniture

Use the sides of the furniture (1)

A simple, economical and yet ultra-functional layout to optimize space in a small kitchen. Bars, small shelves and brackets are installed on the side of a piece of furniture to have easy access to everything you need for cooking (aluminum foil, cutting board, support for shelves, spice jars, aromatic herbs, etc.).

Super practical and cheap to install, a tip to put aside to easily gain storage space and clear the worktop in a kitchen where space is limited.

22. Also use small walls

Also use small walls (1)

No reason not to take advantage of this wall, even if the surface seems limited. It can easily be transformed into a smart and practical storage space . You just have to cover it with a slate paint and then attach a splash bar to hang all the things you use most regularly. Feel free to use the full height. To access the highest storage spaces, use a small stool.

23. Use wicker baskets for storage and decorating above cabinets

Use wicker baskets for storage and decorating above cabinets (1)

The baskets make it possible to optimize storage above the cabinets. The cases are grouped by category and are also better protected.

24. Install an open shelf above the wall units

Install an open shelf above the wall units (1)

The baskets make it possible to optimize storage above the cabinets. The cases are grouped by category and are also better protected.

As this storage space is not easily accessible, we put down pretty crockery, the one we prefer to display rather than use on a regular basis. Last tip, use a nice basket to put things on the fridge.

25. Use inside cupboard doors to store spices

Use inside cupboard doors to store spices (1)

Maximize the cupboards, even in a very small kitchen, you certainly have cupboards. Have you ever thought about optimizing maximum these storage spaces? We show you how, with the right accessories, it’s very easy to get started, and the space savings are immediate! A spice rack that attaches inside the cupboard, on the door. Be careful to provide suitable storage so as not to interfere with closing.

26. Install an adjustable and telescopic shelf under the sink

Install an adjustable and telescopic shelf under the sink (1)

Running out of space in your small kitchen? Have you ever made the most of the space under the sink? All you have to do is install an adjustable, modular and telescopic shelf to create a practical and space-saving storage surface.

27. Hang household products from a telescopic bar

Hang-household-products-from-a-telescopic-bar-1.jpg

Household products take up space. The space under the sink offers a suitable surface to store them, as long as it is well organized. Start by placing a telescopic bar and grouping the various accessories together in plastic baskets. Group the brushes in one tray, the sponges in another, …

28. Hang a hanging basket inside the cupboard door

Hang a hanging basket inside the cupboard door (1)

A very practical accessory to gain additional storage space in a small kitchen. This hanging basket is both discreet and smart. Another advantage: it does not require a special installation with nails or screws! An accessory to use when you are an owner or tenant.

29. Group foods by category

Group foods by category (1)

No need to have a huge pantry to organize different foods. The smaller your kitchen, the more it is advisable to optimize storage. Start by grouping foods into categories, in baskets with labels.

30. Get rid of packaging

Get rid of packaging (1)

To adopt the right reflexes and organize a small kitchen to make it functional, practical and pleasant on a daily basis, it is also adopting some good reflexes. The tips below may seem obvious to you, but are they habits? Even better: limit packaging if you can (do your shopping in bulk for example).

All packaging clutters your small kitchen, the good thing to do is to get rid of it as soon as you come home from shopping. A very silly tip, but very effective.

It is even particularly important for the storage and proper functioning of the fridge. These packaging will in fact slow down the cooling of food, so you will consume more energy and electricity than necessary. Removing the packaging is therefore also a good way to save money.

31. Stack a few wooden crates to store your bottles

Stack a few wooden crates to store your bottles (1)

Stackable wooden crates, a good idea to save storage space and store bottles in a small kitchen. And to move them easily, you can even attach casters to them. Of course, it is advisable to place these storage units in a corner of your kitchen so as not to obstruct passage and good circulation.

32. Clean and store as you go

Clean and store as you go (1)

In a small kitchen, it is best to tidy up and clean as you go. Don’t let the mess build up!

33. Install modular storage

Install modular storage (1)

If the configuration of your small kitchen does not allow you to install wall storage, opt for pedestals on casters, easy to move and that adapt to your space. They can be stored under the worktop to avoid obstructing traffic. This is also a tip to remember if your small kitchen is located in the attic.

34. Replace a central island with a service on wheels

Replace a central island with a service on wheels (1)

The central island is practical and trendy, but rarely suitable for small kitchen configurations. Consider using a cart on wheels that offers a space-saving alternative.

35. Replace a real pantry with wooden drawers

Replace a real pantry with wooden drawers (1)

These drawers are designed to replace a pantry and offer the possibility of storing fruit or keeping vegetables in a small kitchen.

36. Make a mini wall pantry

Make a mini wall pantry (1)

In this small kitchen, a home-made open pantry is attached to the wall to store fruits and vegetables in wired baskets. Too often overlooked, lighting is especially important in a small kitchen.

37. Group 8 utensils in 1 with this multifunctional bottle

Group 8 utensils in 1 with this multifunctional bottle (1)

The 8-in-1 multifunctional Bin, 8 bottle: a practical and smart tool for a small kitchen

38. Fold your colander for easy storage

Fold your colander for easy storage (1)

The colander is useful, but you don’t use it every day? Here is the solution for small kitchens, the collapsible colander that can be flattened to store it in a drawer.

39. Recycle wooden crates

Recycle wooden crates (1)

Small budget and small kitchen? Here is an idea to put aside to add a decorative touch while providing your small kitchen with practical and easily accessible storage spaces. Just replace open shelves with vintage wooden crates to hang on the wall. It is also an economical tip.

40. Limit excessively bulky furniture

Limit excessively bulky furniture (1)

The smaller the space, the more it is advisable to choose the furniture and layout well, those that will not clutter up the space too much. You might like to install a large closet to store and organize accessories, dishes, utensils and food, but this is precisely to be avoided, for 2 reasons.

The first: these bulky pieces of furniture will reinforce the impression of lack of space in your small kitchen. The second reason is more surprising : the more storage spaces you have, the more you will be tempted to fill them! The risk is therefore to load your small kitchen with lots of unnecessary things, which take up space.

41. Optimize space with built-in appliances

Optimize space with built-in appliances (1)

In the case of a fitted kitchen , it is generally advantageous in terms of saving space to provide spaces for built-in appliances . It is not only a question of surface to be exploited, but also an aesthetic choice.

In a small kitchen, we try to homogenize the facades so as to make the area appear larger and more orderly . For example, in a small kitchen with dishwasher and washing machine, this built-in process makes the mixture of appliances invisible, making the whole thing more pleasing to the eye.

42. Little spice houses

little spice houses (1)

A nice idea to dress up your walls, where you don’t have room for a cupboard: small shelves in the shape of a cube or a house.

43. Hanging lockers for cutlery

Hanging lockers for cutlery (1)

Tidy up a storage and paint the boxes with slate paint, to draw the cutlery. Beautiful and practical!

44. A storage bench with a drawer for the garbage can

A storage bench with a drawer for the garbage can (1)

Since the recycling bin takes up a lot of space, it is best to hide it inside a bench! This is the idea of ​​Stéphanie Guéritaud, stylist and author of the blog Déconome, who had this custom-made bench built with a sliding drawer.

45. A grid for hanging saucepans

A grid for hanging saucepans (1)

A very designer grille that descends from the ceiling.

46. Pretty saucepans displayed on the wall

Pretty saucepans displayed on the wall (1)

Credenza bars to display your most beautiful pots on the wall, as in this kitchen spotted on the Design Sponge blog .

47. A retractable table that also doubles as a blackboard

A retractable table that also doubles as a blackboard (1)

This retractable will be useful for you in two ways, for cutting vegetables and for note down anything on the balck board.

48. Cupboard doors that turn into a table

Cupboard doors that turn into a table (1)

Cupboard doors that turn into a table1 (1)

In this perfectly optimized tiny house , the cupboard doors open upwards to transform into a large table!

49. Small retractable shelves

Small retractable shelves (1)

Another great idea unearthed in a tiny house: two retractable shelves, to eat in front of the window alone or in pairs!

50. Invest in the walls of your kitchen

Invest in the walls of your kitchen (1)

A great trick to optimizing the space of a small kitchen is to invade the space located high up. Thanks to hooks, suspensions and wall shelves, you can add a series of storage and shelves to store your decorative objects.