Working with a small kitchen can be challenging. It may feel like there are always too many cooks in the kitchen, or like you are constantly running out of storage space. But there are so many creative ways to maximize the space that you have, from a full kitchen remodel to a couple of clever storage tips here and there. These are our best tips to create more storage space in a small kitchen.
Get Rid of Clutter
How often do you really use that apple corer? Kitchen appliances tend to accumulate, so there’s no use in keeping items that you rarely think to use. Begin decluttering by emptying your shelves and drawers one at a time, then consider the function and utility of each item. Broken items and items that are never used should be thrown away. After all, they’re taking up prime real estate in your kitchen space!
Expert Tip: When reorganizing the appliances you have decided to keep, make a system that considers how frequently something is used and how much space it takes up. If you use a tea kettle every day, give it a front-and-center easily accessible storage location, such as the counter next to the sink. If you only use your KitchenAid mixer once a year, it doesn’t need to be as visible or accessible. Every item should be returned to its “home” in the kitchen after use.
Set Up Shelving or Storage Areas
This is especially helpful if there are no cabinets above the countertops in your kitchen. Consider utilizing that vertical space by installing shelves on either side of a window – or across an entire wall – to create more shelf space for dishes and cookware. Tall bar stools can be used as makeshift pantries, too! Add baskets underneath them to hold food products from floor level where they’re easier to find when needed.
Use the Space Under Your Sink for Storage
If you don’t have a cabinet to store pots and pans, utilize the space under your kitchen sink. Pull-out racks slide out from underneath the countertop or cabinets to make room for those larger items.
Expert Tip: The warming drawer underneath your oven can be utilized as storage space as well. This drawer tends to get hot, so follow this general rule of thumb: If an item can safely go inside of the oven, it can be stored in the warming drawer. Baking sheets, casserole dishes, skillets, or oven-safe pots are fair game. Plastics, oven mitts, and trivets are not.
Utilize Nooks and Crannies
There will be one or two spaces where smaller appliances can go in most kitchens – on top of either the refrigerator or dishwasher. If these areas aren’t being used, find a way to fit them into your storage plan by storing small things like spices, coffee filters, or even microwavable dinners in some of those empty spots. Utilizing every inch is vital when it comes to optimizing any small living space.
Invest in a Kitchen Island
Replace your kitchen table with an island or a bar that has storage underneath. A dual-functioning table that offers storage is the perfect addition to a limited space.
Plan a Full Kitchen Remodel
To truly transform your small kitchen into an open and welcoming space, consider a full kitchen remodel project. If you’re looking to create a beautiful, functional space with style, let the experts at Total Home Remodeling take care of the details! You can rely on our team to transform your kitchen into something you’ll love for years to come. Contact us today at (913) 270-8570.
