Messy Kitchen? Try These Quick & Simple Organization Ideas!

A well-organized kitchen doesn’t just look nice—it saves you time, energy, and frustration. But keeping everything in order can feel like a never-ending battle, especially when you’re juggling meal prep, grocery runs, and a house full of hungry people.

The secret? Small changes that make a big difference.

This collection of smart ideas will help you rethink your space, giving everything a place while making everyday tasks easier.

You’ll find clever ways to store utensils, keep pantry items in check, and even tame the chaos of plastic containers and their elusive lids.

The best part? These tricks don’t require major overhauls—just a few adjustments that will make your kitchen more functional and enjoyable.

Ready to simplify? Let’s get started!

Smart Ideas That Help Simplify & Organize Your Kitchen

This list is packed with practical, easy-to-apply ideas that help maximize space, reduce clutter, and keep everything within reach. No complicated systems—just small changes that add up to a big difference in your daily routine.

Smart Plastic Bag Storage: Keep Them Neat & Accessible

Plastic bags can quickly overrun a kitchen if they’re not properly stored. Instead of letting them pile up in a messy drawer, use one of these simple and effective storage solutions:

• Paper Towel Tube Method: Roll or fold the bags neatly, then slide them into an empty paper towel tube. This keeps them compact and easy to dispense one at a time.
• Hanging Bag Dispenser: Install a wall-mounted bag holder inside a pantry door or under the sink. Just stuff the bags in the top and pull them out as needed.
• Folding Method: For minimal storage, fold bags into small triangles (like paper footballs)—this reduces bulk and prevents them from tangling. Store them in a container, drawer, or even a resealable bag.
• Tissue Box or Wipes Container: Repurpose an old tissue box or baby wipes container to neatly store plastic bags. This makes them portable and perfect for keeping extras in the car!

No matter which method you choose, keeping plastic bags contained and organized will free up space and reduce kitchen clutter.

Everyday Utensils: Store Them for Quick, Easy Access

If you’re constantly digging through drawers to find the right spoon or spatula, it’s time to upgrade your utensil storage. Instead of stuffing everything into an overfilled drawer, try these smarter solutions:

• Use a Countertop Crock: A wide-mouth ceramic crock, sturdy vase, or repurposed pitcher makes the perfect home for your most-used utensils. Keep wooden spoons, spatulas, tongs, and ladles within arm’s reach for effortless cooking.
• Divide & Conquer: If you have multiple utensils, consider using two crocks—one for wooden and heat-resistant silicone tools and another for metal utensils. This keeps everything easy to grab without overcrowding.
• Hanging Storage: Short on counter space? Install a wall-mounted rail with S-hooks or a wire basket to hold utensils neatly and free up drawer space.
• Drawer Organization: If you prefer drawer storage, use adjustable dividers or small baskets to separate utensils by category—no more tangled messes!

By keeping your utensils organized and within reach, you’ll save time and avoid the frustration of searching for the right tool.

Keep Small Appliance Accessories Together (No More Missing Parts!)

Ever lost the beaters for your hand mixer? Or spent too much time untangling cords from your mini chopper? Keep small appliance accessories organized and in one place with these simple fixes:

• Dedicated Storage Bins: Use a labeled bin or basket to store each appliance with its parts and attachments (e.g., one bin for the mixer, another for the food processor).
• Original Boxes: I have a small kitchen with just enough cupboard space for the essentials, but not much else. Solution that works for me? I keep small appliances such as my Instant Pot, mini-food chopper, rice cooker, etc., stored in their original boxes and stack them on shelves I have setup in the basement. I can see at a glance where everything is and they’re well protected.
• Velcro Cord Wraps: Instead of letting power cords dangle and tangle, secure them with Velcro ties or reusable twist ties before placing them in the bin.
• Clear Storage Bags: If you have multiple attachments, store them in labeled Ziploc bags within the same bin so nothing gets lost.
• Hanging Pouches: Mount small fabric pouches inside cabinet doors to hold accessories like hand mixer beaters, blender blades, or juicer attachments.
• Tidy & Dust Free Covers: If it is an appliance that you use frequently and it makes sense to keep it on the counter, one way to keep things looking tidy and dust-free is to use a cover. You’ll find plenty of options to make your own here: Free Appliance Cover Patterns & Tutorials.

This method works for any small kitchen gadget—electric knives, immersion blenders, mini choppers, and more. Say goodbye to lost parts and hello to stress-free cooking!

Spice Storage Solutions: Get Them Off the Shelf & Organized

Spices can easily take over a kitchen, leading to cluttered cabinets and expired seasonings. To keep them organized and fresh, try these space-saving ideas:

• Wall-Mounted Spice Racks: Install a spice rack or floating shelves inside your pantry, on a cabinet door, or along a backsplash. This frees up shelf space while keeping spices within easy reach.
• Magnetic Spice Jars: Use a magnetic strip on the wall or fridge to hold metal spice tins—a stylish, functional way to keep spices organized.
• Clear Jars with Labels: Transfer spices to uniform glass jars and label them clearly. This makes it easier to see what you have and prevents duplicate purchases.
• Lazy Susan for Spices: A rotating turntable (lazy Susan) is a great way to store small jars in deep cabinets while keeping everything accessible.
• Drawer Organization: If you prefer a drawer system, lay spices flat in a spice organizer so labels are easy to read at a glance.

For longer shelf life, store spices away from heat and humidity—avoid keeping them near the stove!

A Well-Organized Pantry: The Secret to Stress-Free Cooking

A messy pantry leads to wasted food, lost ingredients, and frustrating meal prep. Get yours in order with these practical tips:

• Sort by Category: Group pantry staples into zones—baking supplies, canned goods, snacks, grains, and pasta—to make finding items easier.
• Use Clear Containers: Store dry goods (flour, sugar, rice, pasta) in airtight, clear containers to keep them fresh and visible.
• Label Everything: Use a label maker or chalkboard stickers to mark each container—no more mistaking salt for sugar!
• Add Shelf Risers & Bins: Maximize shelf space by using stackable bins for small items and can risers to keep canned goods easily accessible.
• Store Measuring Cups with Ingredients: Keep a dedicated measuring cup in your flour, sugar, or oats container for quick and mess-free scooping.

A well-organized pantry saves time, reduces waste, and makes meal planning effortless.

Keep the Fridge Neat & Tidy with Storage Bins

A messy fridge leads to forgotten food, wasted groceries, and cluttered shelves. These simple organization tricks will help you maximize space and reduce waste:

• Use Clear Bins & Baskets: Group similar items (cheese & deli meats, condiments, yogurt, fresh produce) in labeled plastic bins for easy access.
• Lazy Susan for Condiments: A small turntable inside the fridge makes it easy to spin and grab what you need—no more lost bottles at the back!
• Dedicate a Leftovers Zone: Assign a specific shelf or bin for leftovers and add a “Eat Me First” label to reduce food waste.
• Divide the Snack Section: Use bins to separate snacks into categories—one for kids, one for healthy grab-and-go options, etc.
• Store Eggs & Dairy on Middle Shelves: Keep eggs, milk, and yogurt in the center where temperatures are most stable (avoid the fridge door!).

Keep Small Packets & Seasonings in One Place

Tiny packets of seasoning, dry soup mixes, and instant sauces love to disappear into the depths of your pantry—until you need them, of course. Instead of shuffling through a cluttered shelf, try these smart solutions to keep them organized and easy to find:

• Use Small Bins or Baskets: Store spice packets, dry rubs, and instant soups in small, labeled baskets or clear plastic bins. Keep one for taco seasoning & marinades, another for gravy & sauce mixes, and a separate one for instant soup packets.
• Repurpose Empty Margarine Tubs or Tupperware: If you prefer free storage solutions, use old butter tubs or small plastic containers to corral loose packets. Stack them neatly in your pantry for easy grab-and-go access.
• Biscuit Tins: You’d be amazed how much stuff these guys will hold, and their tight metal lids are terrific for containing odors too (such as spices). See Clutter Busting With Repurposed & Transformed Biscuit Tins for more ideas.
• Magazine Holders for Slim Packets: Store seasoning and sauce packets upright in a magazine holder, turning it into a mini pull-out drawer for quick access.
• Ziploc Bags for Categorization: Sort packets into Ziploc bags labeled by category (soups, seasoning blends, baking mixes) and place them in a larger bin.

No more hunting through the pantry for that elusive taco seasoning packet!

Protect & Display Kitchen References in Plastic Sleeves

Ever spill flour all over your favorite recipe? Instead of thumbing through cookbooks or scrolling on your phone with flour-covered hands, keep essential kitchen info visible, protected, and accessible with this easy trick:

• Use Plastic Sleeves & Binder Rings: Print out your most-used recipes, baking conversions, or kitchen cheat sheets and slide them into clear plastic page protectors. Use a binder ring to keep them together and hang them inside a cupboard door.
• Clip to a Clipboard: Attach a clipboard inside a cabinet to hold printed grocery lists, favorite recipes, or weekly meal plans.
• Dry-Erase Board for Quick Notes: Slip a blank weekly meal planner into a plastic sleeve and use a dry-erase marker to update it as needed.

With this system, your most important kitchen info is always within reach and easy to clean!

Tame the Chaos of Plastic Container Lids

There’s nothing more frustrating than hunting for the right lid for your food container, only to find a jumbled mess instead. Avoid the struggle with these practical organization hacks:

• Store Lids Upright in a Clear Tub: Keep all lids in a transparent bin or large Ziploc bag so you can see them at a glance.
• Use a Dish Rack or File Organizer: Place lids vertically in a dish rack or a repurposed office file organizer—this prevents them from getting buried under other kitchenware.
• Sort by Size & Shape: Keep round lids in one bin and square lids in another to eliminate mix-ups.
• Install a Lid Holder on a Cabinet Door: Use adhesive hooks or a wire rack to store lids on the inside of a cupboard door, keeping them easy to access but out of sight.

With this simple system, matching lids to containers becomes quick and effortless!

Free Up Counter Space with a Magnetic Knife Strip

Knife blocks are bulky and take up valuable space. Instead of cluttering your counters, install a magnetic knife strip for a sleek, organized, and space-saving solution:

• Mount on the Wall: Install the strip along your backsplash or inside a pantry door to keep knives within reach but off the counter.
• Store More Than Knives: A second strip inside a cabinet or pantry can hold kitchen shears, bottle openers, and metal measuring spoons.
• For Small Kitchens: If counter space is extremely limited, install the strip under upper cabinets for a hidden yet accessible storage option.

Quick Tip: If you have young kids, install the knife strip higher up so little hands can’t reach sharp objects.

Make the Most of a Lazy Susan

Deep cabinets, corner pantries, and even fridges can quickly turn into black holes of forgotten food. A lazy Susan (turntable) keeps everything within easy reach with just a simple spin:

• Pantry Use: Store baking ingredients, oils, condiments, or canned goods on a lazy Susan so nothing gets lost at the back.
• Fridge Organization: Place one in the fridge for sauces, dressings, or small jars—no more knocking things over to grab what you need.
• Under the Sink: A turntable under the sink keeps cleaning supplies easily accessible—just spin and grab!
• Spices & Seasonings: A small lazy Susan on your counter or in a cupboard can organize your most-used spices, salt, and pepper for quick access.

With a lazy Susan, you’ll never have to dig for lost items again!

Use Cup or S-Hooks for Extra Storage

Cup hooks are a small but mighty way to add extra hanging storage in your kitchen. They’re cheap, easy to install, and instantly free up space:

• Inside Cupboard Doors: Hang measuring spoons, trivets, BBQ tools, or small colanders on hooks inside cabinet doors.
• Under Cabinets: Mount hooks beneath upper cabinets to hang mugs or kitchen tools, freeing up shelf space.
• Pantry Walls: Use them to keep onions, garlic, or herb bundles hanging neatly for better airflow.
• On the Side of Cabinets: Install cup hooks along the side of a cabinet to hang oven mitts, kitchen towels, or even small baskets.

For a renter-friendly option, use removable adhesive hooks instead of drilling holes.

Keep Small Miscellaneous Items in Ziploc Bags

Tiny kitchen items—like bread clips, corn cob holders, rubber bands, and twist ties—can easily get lost in drawers. Instead of letting them scatter, store them in labeled Ziploc bags and keep them in a small bin for quick access.

This trick also works great for:

• Birthday candles & cake decorations
• Cookie cutters & piping tips
• Takeout sauce packets & condiment packets

No more digging through junk drawers for the little things!

Use the Underside of Cabinets for Storage

The underside of your cabinets is often overlooked, but it can be turned into hidden storage space:

• Install a Paper Towel Holder: Keep paper towels off the counter by mounting a holder underneath your upper cabinets.
• Use Mounted Wrap Dispensers: Attach a foil, parchment paper, or plastic wrap dispenser under a cabinet for easy access.
• Hang Small Wire Baskets: Install small hanging baskets under cabinets to store tea bags, spices, or coffee pods.

This declutters counters while keeping essentials within reach.

Track Freezer Inventory with a Chart or Magnet

Tired of losing track of frozen foods and wasting groceries? A freezer inventory chart will help you stay on top of what you have:

• Use a Whiteboard or Chalkboard: Stick one on the freezer door and update it as you use items.
• Printable Freezer List: Keep a laminated checklist inside the freezer and mark items off with a dry-erase marker.
• Categorize in Labeled Bins: Store frozen meats, veggies, leftovers, and snacks in separate labeled bins so nothing gets buried.

With this system, you’ll reduce food waste, save money, and always know what’s in your freezer!

Use Tension Rods to Organize Pot Lids

Pot lids are notorious for getting jumbled in cabinets and drawers. Instead of stacking them haphazardly, use tension rods to create a simple and effective lid organizer (thanks for the tip Sarah!):

• Install Tension Rods Vertically in a Deep Drawer: Space the rods to create custom lid slots so lids stand upright.
• Use a Tension Rod Horizontally in a Cabinet: Position a rod across the back of a cabinet to keep lids from sliding around.
• Hang Lids on the Inside of Cabinet Doors: Install small hooks or a lid rack inside your cabinet doors to neatly hold lids in place.

This keeps pot lids easy to grab, organized, and out of the way.

Organize Skinny Cabinets for Baking Sheets & Cutting Boards

If you have a narrow cabinet, turn it into the perfect storage spot for baking sheets, cutting boards, and cooling racks:

• Use Vertical Dividers: Install adjustable wire or wooden dividers to separate baking trays and cutting boards neatly.
• Repurpose a Dish Rack: A dish drying rack makes an instant baking sheet organizer—just stand them up between the slots.
• Install a Pull-Out Tray Organizer: A sliding tray system allows you to pull out your baking sheets without moving everything around.

This simple tweak makes it easier to find what you need without the frustration of stacking and unstacking!

Store Garlic, Onions & Shallots the Right Way

Garlic, onions, and shallots need ventilation to stay fresh longer. Storing them in a closed plastic bag or drawer can lead to mold and sprouting. Instead, try these smart storage methods:

• Bamboo Steamer Basket: A bamboo steamer naturally allows airflow and looks great on your countertop. It keeps onions, garlic, and shallots fresh while adding a stylish touch to your kitchen.
• Hanging Mesh Basket: Use a mesh hanging basket or a wall-mounted wire rack to store alliums while keeping them visible and well-ventilated.
• Paper Bags with Holes: Store onions and garlic in brown paper bags punched with small holes—this extends their shelf life by allowing proper airflow while keeping them dry.
• Avoid Storing with Potatoes: Never store onions and garlic next to potatoes—potatoes release moisture and gases that cause onions to spoil faster.

With these storage tricks, your onions and garlic will last longer and stay fresh!

Create a Baking Station for Convenience

If you love baking, save time and effort by creating a designated baking station in your kitchen:

• Use a Deep Drawer or Pantry Bin: Keep all your baking essentials (flour, sugar, baking powder, measuring cups) in one spot for easy access.
• Store Cookie Cutters & Piping Bags Together: Use a labeled plastic container or a divided organizer for all your decorating tools.
• Dedicate a Section for Mixing Tools: Keep your whisks, spatulas, and rolling pins in a nearby crock or drawer organizer for quick grabbing.
• Store Measuring Cups in the Bins: Place a measuring cup inside your flour and sugar containers so they’re always handy.

With this setup, baking becomes easier, faster, and more enjoyable!

Double Your Cabinet Space with Undershelf Baskets

Most cabinets have wasted vertical space—maximize it by adding undershelf baskets:

• Slide-on Wire Baskets: These hook onto existing shelves to create a second level of storage—perfect for mugs, dish towels, or snack bags.
• Pantry Use: Add baskets inside your pantry to hold spice jars, tea bags, or snack bars while keeping everything visible.
• Fridge Organization: Use small baskets inside the fridge for cheese, deli meats, or condiments.

This simple upgrade instantly increases storage space without requiring tools or permanent modifications.

Label Everything for a Grab-and-Go Kitchen

A well-organized kitchen is not just about storage—it’s about making things easy to find. Labels help eliminate guesswork and keep everything in its proper place:

• Label Pantry Containers: Use a label maker or chalkboard stickers to mark flour, sugar, pasta, and grains. Lots of free printables can be found here: Kitchen Medley: Handy Organizing & Reference Aids.
• Fridge Organization: Label bins for snacks, condiments, leftovers, and dairy to prevent food from getting lost.
• Freezer Labeling: Mark freezer bags and containers with the contents and date to track food freshness.
• Spice Jar Labels: Transfer spices into matching jars and use clear labels for a uniform, organized look.

With clear labeling, you’ll never have to search for ingredients or wonder what’s inside a container again!

Install a Pegboard for Stylish, Functional Storage

A pegboard wall is a great way to add storage while keeping tools easily accessible. Inspired by professional kitchens, this versatile system can be customized to fit your needs:

• Hang Measuring Cups & Spoons: Keep everyday tools visible and within reach.
• Store Pots & Pans Vertically: Arrange them neatly on hooks for a clutter-free cabinet alternative.
• Add Small Shelves: Use small pegboard shelves for spice jars, dish towels, or coffee mugs.
• Customizable Layout: Rearrange hooks and shelves as needed to fit your storage needs.

A pegboard saves cabinet space, looks stylish, and keeps kitchen essentials handy.

Hang a Tension Rod Under the Sink for Cleaning Supplies

The area under the sink is prime real estate for storage, but it often ends up a jumbled mess. Maximize this space with a simple tension rod trick:

• Hang Spray Bottles from a Tension Rod: Slide bottles onto the rod by their nozzles—this keeps them off the floor and easy to grab.
• Store Sponges & Gloves on Hooks: Attach S-hooks to the rod for hanging cleaning gloves and small brushes.
• Add Stackable Bins Below: Use bins or baskets to separate trash bags, dishwasher pods, and cleaning cloths.

This small change makes a big difference in keeping your under-sink area tidy and functional.

Keep Dish Towels Neatly Folded & Accessible

Tired of dish towels cluttering your counter or getting lost in a drawer? Keep them neat and accessible with these tips:

• Store in a Decorative Basket: Keep a small basket on the counter for rolled-up dish towels.
• Use a Tension Rod Inside a Cabinet Door: Hang towels on a small rod with S-hooks to keep them tidy and off the counter.
• Attach Self-Adhesive Hooks Inside Cabinets: Stick removable hooks inside a cabinet for quick grab-and-go towel storage.

This ensures your dish towels are always organized, dry, and easy to grab!

Maximize Freezer Space with Magazine Holders

A disorganized freezer leads to wasted food and forgotten leftovers. Fix it with this simple trick:

• Use Cardboard Magazine Holders for Upright Storage: Store bags of frozen veggies, meats, and leftovers in labeled magazine holders—they work like mini pull-out drawers.
• Stackable Freezer Bins: Organize frozen food into categories (veggies, meat, prepared meals, snacks) using clear stackable bins.
• Label & Date Everything: Use freezer labels to track what’s inside and when it was frozen to prevent food waste.

This system makes it easier to find what you need and keeps the freezer clutter-free.

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A well-organized kitchen isn’t just about looking neat—it’s about making life easier. When everything has a home and clutter is under control, cooking becomes faster, meal prep is smoother, and cleaning up is a breeze.

The best part? You don’t have to tackle everything at once. Start with one small change—maybe organizing your pantry, decluttering a drawer, or adding a lazy Susan. Small improvements add up quickly, and before you know it, you’ll have a kitchen that works better for you.

Remember, the goal isn’t perfection—it’s functionality. Find the ideas that fit your space and lifestyle, and enjoy the benefits of a kitchen that’s truly working for you!