Organizational Essentials for the Kitchen: 27 Items That Retrospectively Seem Like Long-Awaited Solutions
In the quest for a more organized kitchen and pantry, BuzzFeed staff have curated a list of practical and stylish organization products that can help maximize space, improve accessibility, and keep things tidy.
1. Drawer Organizers and Dividers
Starting with the basics, drawer organizers and dividers are essential for keeping utensils, gadgets, and small kitchen tools neatly separated and easy to find.
2. Clear Airtight Containers
Transparent containers are great for storing dry goods like flour, sugar, pasta, and snacks. Not only do they make it easy to see contents, but they also help keep items fresh.
3. Stackable Bins and Drawers
Optimize pantry shelf space by grouping similar items in stackable bins and drawers. Pulling out the bin makes accessing everything inside a breeze.
4. Tiered Shelf Organizers
Ideal for canned goods or spices, tiered shelves help maximize vertical space and keep smaller items visible.
5. Lazy Susans
Lazy Susans are useful for corner cabinets or pantry shelves, rotating to provide easy access to jars, oils, and condiments.
6. Over-the-Door Storage Racks
Adding extra storage on pantry or cabinet doors, these racks are great for holding spices, packets, or small bottles.
7. Label Makers and Chalkboard Labels
Keeping containers and bins clearly identified helps maintain order and reduces the chance of expired foods. Label makers and chalkboard labels make this task easy.
8. Under-Shelf Baskets
Create extra storage beneath existing shelves to hold smaller or flat items.
9. A Utensil Holder with a Removable Divider
Organize kitchen tools by function, color, or size with a utensil holder featuring a removable divider. Its rotating base ensures easy access.
10. A Pan Rack
Store cookware efficiently with a pan rack made of sturdy metal wire, fitting a range of frying pans, lids, and cooking pots.
11. A Freestanding Shelf
Add surface and storage space for food, spices, cookware, etc., helping to make better use of counters and cabinets.
12. A Two-Sided Tea Stand
Organize a large collection of tea by presenting a more aesthetically pleasing alternative to a jar of mixed tea bags, taking up minimal kitchen space.
13. A Magnetic Rack
Utilize vertical space on the front or side of a fridge by holding spices, cookbooks, paper towels, and oven mitts with a magnetic rack.
14. A Slim Storage Unit with Wheels
Fitting into small spaces such as beside a pantry, between a fridge and counter, or anywhere with a little room, this mobile unit provides additional storage.
15. A Tiered Shelf
Transform chaotic cupboards into an orderly oasis by fitting in most cupboards and expanding as needed.
16. A Rectangular Storage Container
Keep cupboards tidy with an airtight seal, preserving dry foods' freshness.
17. A Knife Mat
Safely store sharp utensils with a knife mat, serving as an alternative to a knife block if counter space is limited.
18. A Silicone Mat
Keep cans, jars, and bottles from sliding around, allowing for space-saving stacking.
19. A Lid Organizer
Keep lids upright and prevent them from falling off shelves when cupboards are opened.
20. A Small Bin
Store and organize smaller items like spices, gravy mix, and seasoning packets, with ribbing on the bottom to prevent packages from sliding around.
21. A Drawer Insert
Help find kitchen supplies easily when cooking, even in limited cupboard space.
22. A Sink Caddy
Keep cleaning supplies within reach, molding to the shape of the sink, and allowing sponges to dry properly.
23. An Over-the-Door Organizer
Store random food items, with large pockets for items like tea bags, spice jars, pasta boxes, and condiment bottles.
24. Stackable Transparent Bins
Declutter and organize the fridge, allowing easy visibility of contents.
25. A Cabinet Tray
Save time by allowing easy access to items in the back of cupboards or fridge, spinning like a lazy Susan.
26. A Plastic Bin
Prevent milk from rolling on shelves, with an opening at the bottom for easy refill access.
27. A Plastic Storage Bin for Eggs
More durable than cardboard trays, this bin features handles for easy fridge access and a lid for stacking food on top.
28. A 2-in-1 Dish Rack and Drying Mat
Absorb moisture, preventing wet countertops, and doubling as a drying mat.
29. A Two-Piece Container Set
Large enough to hold an entire bag of pet food, with snap-and-lock lids to seal in freshness and prevent pets from breaking into them.
30. A Food Storage Bag
Prevent leaks in the fridge or freezer with an airtight seal.
BuzzFeed's recommendations cater to various kitchen sizes, styles, and lifestyle needs. Popular brands often mentioned include OXO, mDesign, The Container Store’s own labels, and Amazon basics for budget-friendly solutions. For the latest specific product recommendations from BuzzFeed, you can find their recent curated lists or guides!
1. Home-and-Garden Organization: A small bin can help in organizing smaller items like spices, gravy mix, and seasoning packets in the kitchen, preventing them from being lost or forgotten.
2. Food-and-Drink Organization: Keep milk from rolling on shelves with a plastic bin that has an opening at the bottom for easy refill access, ensuring a fresh supply and avoiding wastage.
