Small kitchen? Function doesn't have to suffer. With the right organization systems, even the tiniest galley kitchen can be efficient and beautiful.
The Small Kitchen Philosophy
- Vertical space is your friend. Think up, not out.
- Every item earns its place. Keep only what you actually use.
- Clear counters = visual space. Store everything when not in use.
- Uniform containers create calm. Decant into matching jars and bins.
Declutter First
Before organizing, purge ruthlessly. Use our 30-day declutter challenge for kitchen-specific tasks.
Keep only:
- One of each tool (you don't need 3 spatulas)
- Dishes for your household + 4 guests max
- Appliances used weekly (donate the rest)
- Food that's fresh and actually eaten
Maximize Cabinet Space
1. Shelf Risers
Double your vertical space by stacking plates and bowls on risers. See items at a glance instead of digging.
2. Cabinet Door Organizers
Use the inside of doors:
- Over-door racks for pot lids
- Adhesive hooks for measuring cups and spoons
- Small baskets for sponges and scrubbers
3. Lazy Susans
Perfect for corner cabinets and deep shelves. Spin to access items in the back without excavating.
4. Stackable Bins
Corral snacks, packets, and small items. Pull out the whole bin instead of searching.
Vertical Wall Storage
Magnetic Knife Strip
Frees up an entire drawer. Mount on wall or inside cabinet door.
Pegboard
Hang pots, pans, utensils. Customizable and easily rearranged.
Floating Shelves
Display pretty dishes and glasses. Keeps them accessible and adds decor.
Rail System with S-Hooks
Hang spatulas, whisks, and towels. Everything at arm's reach while cooking.
The Power of Decanting
This is the secret to Instagram-worthy kitchens. Transfer food from packaging into uniform containers.
What to Decant
- Flour, sugar, rice, pasta
- Cereal and granola
- Spices (into matching jars)
- Snacks (crackers, nuts)
Benefits
- Uniform containers stack efficiently
- Clear containers show when you're running low
- Removes visual clutter of mismatched packaging
- Keeps food fresher with airtight seals
Best Containers
- OXO Pop Containers: Airtight, stackable, various sizes
- Glass jars: Eco-friendly, see-through, dishwasher-safe
- Wire baskets: For produce and items that need airflow
Label everything. Chalkboard labels or printed tags keep it organized.
Drawer Organization
Drawer Dividers
Keep utensils separated and easy to find. Expandable dividers adjust to any drawer size.
Vertical Plate Storage
Store plates on their sides like files. Easier to grab one without disturbing the stack.
Spice Drawer Inserts
Lay spice jars flat in a tiered insert. See all labels at once instead of digging through a cabinet.
Under-Sink Solutions
This space is awkward but valuable.
- Sliding organizer: Pull-out drawers that fit around pipes
- Tension rod: Hang spray bottles
- Stackable bins: Separate cleaning supplies from dish soap
- Door-mounted organizer: Use the cabinet door
Simplify cleaning supplies while you're at it. You don't need 10 different products.
Appliance Storage
The One-In, One-Out Rule
Before buying a new appliance, ensure you have space. If not, donate something.
Appliance Garage
Corner cabinet with roll-up door. Keeps counters clear but items accessible.
High Shelf Storage
Rarely-used items (slow cooker, mixer) go on top shelves. Use a step stool when needed.
Counter Space Management
The rule: Only daily-use items stay out. Everything else goes away.
Typical counter residents:
- Coffee maker (if used daily)
- Knife block
- Dish soap and sponge (in a pretty holder)
- One small plant or candle for beauty
Everything else—toaster, mixer, fruit bowl—gets stored.
Small Kitchen Hacks
Cutting Board Over Sink
Creates extra prep space when needed. Slides into storage when not.
Over-the-Sink Dish Rack
Dishes dry over the sink, freeing up counter space.
Fridge Side Storage
Magnetic containers or slim rolling cart that fits beside fridge.
Fold-Down Table
Wall-mounted table that folds up when not in use. Instant dining or prep space.
Refrigerator Organization
- Clear bins: Group like items (dairy, meats, snacks)
- Lazy Susan: For jars and condiments
- Egg holder and can dispenser: Maximize door space
- Label everything: Dates on leftovers prevent waste
First in, first out: New groceries go to the back. Prevents food spoilage.
Pantry (or Pantry Alternative)
No pantry? Create one:
- Freestanding shelf: IKEA IVAR or similar in a corner
- Over-door organizer: On pantry or nearby closet door
- Rolling cart: Slim cart that fits in gaps
Visual Cohesion
Matching containers and uniform storage make small spaces feel larger.
- Choose one material (all glass, all white plastic, all wire baskets)
- Consistent labels in the same style
- Color palette of 2-3 colors max
This aligns with small space design principles: cohesion creates calm.
Maintenance Habits
- Wipe counters after every cooking session
- Empty dishwasher first thing in morning
- Put away groceries immediately (don't leave bags on counter)
- Weekly fridge clean-out (toss expired items)
- Monthly declutter (15 minutes to maintain systems)
Budget-Friendly Organization
Under $50 Kitchen Organization:
- Dollar store bins and organizers ($15)
- Magnetic knife strip ($12)
- Set of drawer dividers ($10)
- Spice jars ($8)
Under $150: Add shelf risers, Lazy Susans, decanting containers
Final Thoughts
A small kitchen isn't a limitation. With smart systems and intentional choices, it can be just as functional as a sprawling chef's kitchen.
Start with decluttering. Add vertical storage. Decant for visual calm. And maintain daily habits.
Your tiny kitchen can be efficient, beautiful, and a joy to cook in.