If you live in a small home or apartment, you probably know firsthand how challenging it can be to find enough space for all your belongings—especially in the kitchen. Keeping your kitchen tools and ingredients organized can be tough, but it’s important to make the most of the space you have. The good news is that there are plenty of ways to make the most of a small space. With creativity and ingenuity, you can turn a cramped kitchen into a room that feels bright, airy, and spacious.
1. Get rid of anything you don’t use.
One of the best ways to create more space in a small kitchen is to declutter and eliminate any items you don’t use regularly. Do a thorough sweep of your cupboards, pantry, and drawers, and get rid of anything that’s expired, damaged, or that you no longer need. You can also try storing non-essential items elsewhere, like in the basement or attic. This will free up valuable space so you can better organize the things you do use daily.
When disposing of items, be sure to recycle or donate anything that’s still in good condition. Any food that’s still edible can be donated to a local food bank. But expired or damaged items should be properly disposed of so they don’t take up space in your home. Don’t forget to declutter your countertops as well! Keep only the items you use daily within easy reach.
2. Use your walls wisely.
Make use of every inch of available space by utilizing your walls wisely. Wall-mounted cabinets and shelves are ideal for storing spices, cookbooks, or other small items that might otherwise get lost in drawers. Pegboards are also great for organizing pots and pans, S-hooks can be used to hang aprons or dishtowels within easy reach, and magnetic strips are perfect for knives and other metal utensils.
You may also want to consider hanging some of your larger pots and pans from ceiling pot racks. This will free up valuable cabinet and drawer space while keeping everything within easy reach. Make sure every hanged item has a proper hook that can support its weight, and be careful not to overload the racks, so they don’t come crashing down.
3. Invest in multipurpose devices.
Appliances like slow cookers and air fryers can do the work of several kitchen gadgets, so you won’t have to keep as many appliances out on your countertops. If you’re tight on storage space, look for compact devices that can do double duty, like a toaster oven that can bake cookies or a coffeemaker with a built-in hot water dispenser for tea lovers.
You can find many of these devices in mini or travel sizes, which are perfect for small kitchens. And if you’re tight on space, consider investing in an all-in-one appliance like a toaster oven that can also air fry, bake, broil, and even roast a chicken. But no matter what appliances you choose, be sure to read the reviews before you buy to ensure they’re the right fit for your needs.
4. Keep surfaces clear.
A cluttered countertop can make even a big kitchen feel cramped and crowded—so it’s important to keep surfaces as clear as possible at all times. Get rid of any appliances or gadgets that you don’t regularly use (even if they’re small), and find creative ways to store things out of sight when they’re not being used (like under the sink). Wipe down countertops and appliances after each use, so they always look clean and clutter-free.
Don’t forget about windowsills and other horizontal surfaces as well. If you don’t have enough counter space for a cutting board, use a windowsill or another flat surface for meal prep. And be sure to clear off the dining table after each meal, so it’s always ready for company.
5. Stop buying things you don’t need
Of course, after clearing up your countertops and storage areas, you might be tempted to go out and buy more things to fill up the space. But resist the urge! If you don’t absolutely need it, don’t bring it into your home. Not only will this save you money, but it will also keep your kitchen from becoming cluttered and cramped.
Although finding enough storage space in a small kitchen can be challenging, there are plenty of ways to make the most of limited square footage. By decluttering regularly, investing in multipurpose appliances, utilizing your walls wisely, thinking vertically, and keeping surfaces clear, you can turn even the tiniest kitchen into an organized oasis where cooking is enjoyable rather than stressful. Implement some (or all!) of these simple tips today to instantly create more space—and peace of mind—in your small kitchen.
