When it comes to kitchen cabinets, it’s important to make the most of every inch of space. This is especially true for long and narrow cabinets, which can be challenging to organize effectively. In order to maximize functionality in these difficult dimensions, it’s essential to prioritize which items you use most frequently and ensure they are easily accessible.
The first step in organizing your kitchen cabinets is to declutter. Remove everything from the cabinets and sort through each item, getting rid of anything you no longer need or want. This will give you a clean slate to work with. Be sure to recycle or donate items whenever possible. Take advantage of this opportunity to clean the cabinets as well.
When deciding how to arrange your cabinets, consider the location of each cabinet. Assign each cabinet to a specific zone based on its proximity to certain appliances or areas of the kitchen. For example, cabinets next to the stove can be designated for cooking essentials like herbs, spices, oils, and utensils, while cabinets next to the dishwasher can be used for dishwasher tablets, cleaning products, and tea towels.
To make the most of the space in long and narrow cabinets, consider installing pull-out storage solutions such as shelves, drawers, or racks. These organizers will allow you to access items at the back of the cabinet with ease. When choosing a mechanism, be sure to measure the height and width of the shelf to ensure a snug fit and maximize space usage.
Tiered organizers are another great option for long and narrow cabinets. They elevate smaller items like tins, packets, and spice jars, making them visible and easy to reach. This helps to prevent items from getting lost or expiring. Organize duplicate food items based on their expiration dates, positioning those with the nearest expiration date at the front.
Grouping items into clear bins is a useful practice for organizing kitchen cabinets. By grouping like-items together and labeling the bins, you can easily find what you need. Depending on the depth of your cabinet, you can fit multiple bins on one shelf. Keep frequently used items at the front for easy access. If your cabinets are located higher up, consider using long, transparent bins that can be pulled out and set on a counter for convenience.
Finally, consider decanting dried goods into space-saving containers. This not only saves space in the cabinets, but also keeps items neatly organized. If you prefer to buy in bulk, stackable containers are a great option for maximizing storage in long and narrow cabinets.
By following these tips and utilizing the available space, you can efficiently organize your long and narrow kitchen cabinets, making your kitchen more functional and enjoyable to use.
Sources:
– Ann Lightfoot, co-founder of Done & Done Home
– Brenda Scott, professional organizer at Tidy My Space