The Best Way to Create an Organized Kitchen Space

Whether you're cooking daily or just making the occasional cup of coffee, an organized kitchen can save you time, reduce stress, and even make your food taste better (okay, maybe not taste better—but it’ll certainly feel more enjoyable to cook!).

Here’s our practical step-by-step guide to creating a kitchen space that works smarter, not harder.

1. Start with a Deep Clean and Declutter

Before adding fancy organizers or shopping for storage bins, start with what you already have:

• Empty your cabinets and drawers completely.

• Group similar items together: utensils, spices, pantry goods, bakeware, etc.

• Purge what you don’t use. Be honest: if you haven’t used that fondue set in 3 years, donate it.

• Check expiration dates on food items and toss anything that’s old or stale.

• You’ll be amazed how much space you free up just by decluttering.

2. Think Zones, Not Just Storage

To streamline your kitchen, set up functional zones based on activities:

• Prep Zone: Cutting boards, knives, mixing bowls, measuring tools.

• Cooking Zone: Pots, pans, spatulas, oils, and spices near the stove.

• Baking Zone: Mixing bowls, rolling pins, flour, sugar, baking sheets.

• Coffee/Tea Station: Mugs, coffee maker, filters, tea bags.

• Cleaning Zone: Dish soap, sponges, towels under or near the sink.

This makes everything accessible when and where you need it most.

3. Use Clear, Stackable Storage

Transparent bins or glass jars make it easier to see what you have. Use these tips:

• Store dry goods (like pasta, rice, flour) in airtight containers.

• Label everything—chalkboard stickers or printed labels work great.

• Stack bins or use tiered shelf organizers to maximize vertical space.

• A pantry or cabinet filled with matching jars not only looks great but functions beautifully too.

4. Maximize Cabinet and Drawer Space

Even small kitchens can feel spacious when you use space wisely:

• Install drawer dividers for utensils and gadgets.

• Add lazy Susans in hard-to-reach corners for spices or condiments.

• Use pull-out organizers or baskets in deep cabinets.

• Hang hooks or racks on cabinet doors for pot lids, foil, or cutting boards.

Bonus tip: Add a tension rod under the sink to hang spray bottles!

5. Go Vertical: Wall and Door Storage

Don’t ignore empty walls or the backs of doors:

• Install a pegboard for hanging pans, tools, or even mugs.

• Use magnetic strips to store knives or spice jars.

• Hang floating shelves for cookbooks or decorative storage baskets.

• Mount a fold-down table if you need extra counter space in a small kitchen.

6. Adopt a Maintenance Routine

The key to keeping your kitchen organized long-term is consistency:

• Daily: Wipe down counters and put everything back in its zone.

• Weekly: Tidy drawers, toss expired food, and re-label as needed.

• Monthly: Reassess what’s working and adjust as your needs change.

A few minutes a day goes a long way toward lasting organization.

Creating an organized kitchen isn’t about having a Pinterest-perfect space—it’s about building a system that makes your daily life easier and more enjoyable. Start small, work zone by zone, and remember: the best kitchen is one that works for you. Happy organizing!