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Hang a roll of paper towels -

Paper towels are a handy item in the kitchen, but they can take up precious kitchen space. Consider hanging a paper towel roll in a drawer or on a rack.

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Create a designated bar area -

If possible, designate a section of your kitchen into a bar area, maybe even on a decorative bar cart. Keep your bottles here instead of letting them take up valuable fridge space.

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Mount floating shelves -

Adding floating shelves is an excellent way of creating extra storage space if you're short on cabinets. 

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Add wine storage -

Instead of letting bottles of your favorite wine clutter the countertops, incorporate a wine rack into your cabinetry design.

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Keep glassware together -

Consider adding open shelving to your kitchen that's designed for glassware. Grouping glassware on open glass shelves makes it look like a display rather than just storage.

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Store dishes or pot lids vertically -

Sorting your pot lids and plates vertically keeps them neat and easily visible, so you're not having to hunt for the size you need.

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Add secret storage -

When you're short on storage space, you may need to get creative. If you have banquette seating in your kitchen, consider adding some storage space beneath the seat.

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Switch to multipurpose cleaner -

Instead of having numerous cleaning products take up space underneath your sink, choose a multipurpose cleaner that can be used on the countertops, stove, and sink.

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Organize your fridge -

Organizing your fridge means you'll find ingredients easier while preparing dinner, and you're less likely to forget about leftovers.

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Install pull-out cabinet drawers -

Pull-out cabinet drawers are easy to install and make it easier to grab pots and pans.

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Organize your pantry -

Organize your pantry by putting your most frequently reached-for items on the middle shelves for easy access.

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Arrange storage for easy access -

Storing frequently used dishes and trays in easy-access drawers or shelves makes it easier to see what you need.

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Use over-the-door hangers -

Over-the-door organizers come in handy when you need to hide grocery store bags or stow away essential cleaning items.

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Keep cleaning products contained -

Group housecleaning supplies, like sponges and rubber gloves, in plastic caddies to keep them organized under your kitchen sink.

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Make a place for mail -

Instead of tossing mail on the kitchen countertops, invest in a rack to store your important mail and a recycling bin nearby to toss away junk mail as soon as it arrives.

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Organize your junk drawer -

Throw out anything you really don't need or add dividers to create some organization in your kitchen's miscellaneous drawer.

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Store produce in baskets -

Produce like tomatoes and bananas don't belong in the fridge, but instead of having them clutter up your countertops, keep them contained in a wire basket.

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Organize your cupboards -

Multi-tier racks, baskets, and containers can help keep cupboards neat and tidy. You may also wish to label your containers so you can easily find whatever you're looking for.

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Invest in clear containers -

Packets of rice and large boxes of cereal can look unsightly, so store your dry goods in clear containers. Not only is it more aesthetically pleasing, but you'll know when it's time to replenish them.

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Add a curtain -

If you have low, open shelving units in your kitchen, why not add a curtain to hide bulky items or a backstock of dried or tinned food?

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Adjust shelf height -

Adjust your shelf height to fit your items and needs. You may be tempted to stack canned goods in an unstable pile on a shelf with too much space or add cereal boxes to a top shelf, even though it's something you reach for every day. 

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Use a flatware organizer -

A flatware organizer means no more hunting for the right fork when setting the table. 

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Hang pots and pans -

A mounted rack can offer up to 20 hooks for hanging your pans and free up valuable cupboard space. 

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Store knives on a magnetic strip -

Knife holders often take up unnecessary space in your kitchen. To keep your prep space clutter-free, install a magnetic knife holder on the wall.

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Line up your spices in a drawer -

Consider lining up your spices in a drawer so you won't have trouble finding the pepper when preparing dinner. You may even wish to alphabetize them.

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Maximize under-cupboard space -

The space under your cupboards is the perfect spot for storing wine and cocktail glasses.

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Store containers with their lids on -

If you have an abundance of reusable storage containers, store them with their lids on, so you're not hunting for the right size lid when you need it.

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Keep everyday utensils within reach -

Store essential cooking utensils, like spatulas and serving spoons, in a container by the stove. Leave out what you need, and put the rest in a drawer.

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Group by need -

Put everyday items where you can see them to save you from running around the kitchen trying to find things. Keep your mugs, coffee, and coffee maker in one place.

Sources: (Reader's Digest) (Good Housekeeping)

See also: The Japanese art of decluttering and organizing

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