The cupboards and drawers in the average kitchen end up storing everything. We’ve all got the infamous “electrical drawer” full of spare cables and batteries, a half-medicine cabinet with hay fever tablets and cold remedies, and — if you’re anything like my mum — a cupboard stacked with tinned food (some of which might be well past their best-before date).
We’re pros at filling up every inch of space with non-kitchen essentials, and then we wonder why we’re short on storage. So, let’s take a look at some of the best kitchen storage ideas and tips for smart kitchen organisation that will help you get the most out of your space.
Built-In Solutions: Hidden Gems
Built-in storage might seem obvious, but many of us aren’t using it to its full potential. What do we mean by built-in? We're talking about features that are installed inside your cabinets — things like drawers, bins, or clever shelving systems. Making use of built-in kitchen storage keeps everything organised and neatly hidden behind closed doors.
Top 3 Built-In Ideas:
Pull-Out Drawers in Tall Units
These are perfect for using every inch of your cupboard space. Because they pull out fully, you can easily access the back — no more forgotten tins or lost packets.
Built-In Bin
Total game-changer. Position it near your prep area or sink and it’ll make your kitchen workflow so much smoother. Plus, it hides the bin completely — a win for aesthetics.
Internal Drawers in Pan Drawers
Pan drawers are typically deep, but that can lead to wasted vertical space. Adding an internal drawer (especially in the top drawer) gives you an extra level of storage without affecting the look of the kitchen.
Appliance Garage: A Must for Modern Kitchens
We’ve mentioned the appliance garage before — and for good reason. It’s becoming a staple in modern kitchen design. The idea is simple: a space where small appliances (like your toaster or coffee machine) can be stored and even used without cluttering your worktop.
Most people imagine a repurposed larder or corner unit, but they can come in all shapes and sizes. Some are as small as a wall-mounted unit just big enough to hide the kettle and toaster.
Shelves Are Your Friend
One of the simplest and best kitchen storage ideas? Open shelves. Most of us keep cups and mugs tucked away in cupboards, taking up prime storage real estate. Shelves give you quick access to the things you use every day, like mugs and glasses — and free up space elsewhere.
Plus, when you compare a shelf to a full 500mm wall unit, it’s clear which one takes up less room.
Best of the Rest: Quickfire Storage Tips
Drawer Organisers – From cutlery trays to spice racks and peg boards, these keep clutter under control.
Pan Organisers – If you don’t have pan drawers, slide-out organisers are the next best thing.
Utensil Hangers – Wall-mounted hooks for everyday utensils free up worktop space.
Declutter – Be honest: how much do you actually use everything in your kitchen? A clear-out can work wonders.
Plinth Drawers – Yes, drawers in the plinth (kickboard) area exist. They’re ideal for storing flat items like baking trays.
Tall Wall Units – Cabinets that go all the way to the ceiling maximise vertical space — great for storing things you don’t need daily.
Need help making sense of your space?
Hopefully, these tips give you a great starting point for improving your kitchen’s storage and functionality. If you’d like advice tailored to your space, speak to one of our local Home Designers — we’d love to help.
Tips and tricks
