Kitchen Organization Made Easy: 7 Simple Ideas That Actually Work

Let’s be honest—keeping up with cooking regularly in today's busy world is tough without any other roadblocks but add an unorganized, dirty kitchen to the mix and you'll want to avoid it altogether. Whether your drawers are bursting or your counters are a mess, the right kitchen organization strategies can completely change the way your space functions—and feels. For me, personally, the kitchen is the room I focus the majority of my attention on when it comes to cleanliness and organization. It's where we spend the most time with our kids and guests when were home and it causes me more frustration than any other space if it is not clean. 

So below, I put together seven practical, beautiful, and joy-sparking ideas that will help you reclaim calm and control in your kitchen and make you happy to spend more time entertaining with family and friends.

1. Use Clear Containers for Pantry Perfection

Transparent, airtight containers make your pantry look like a Pinterest dream. Not only do they keep food fresh, but they also make inventory checks easy. Label each container for that added polished look.

Bonus Tip:

Choose stackable designs to make the most of vertical space.

2. Maximize Drawer Space with Adjustable Dividers

Custom-fit dividers help keep your utensils, gadgets, and even junk drawers looking tidy. No more rummaging for a garlic press or bottle opener.

Focus Feature:

Use bamboo or recycled plastic options to stay eco-conscious while organizing.

3. Install Under-Shelf Baskets for Instant Extra Storage

You can easily install sliding baskets like these from the Container Store.

Or get some simple plastic white baskets from any home goods store that fit within your shelves like the ones below. 

Either of these slide-in baskets make use of the air space between shelves and keep things from looking scattered in the cabinet. They're great for snacks, sandwich bags, or cloth napkins—and they look sleek too.

Easy Win:

No tools required with the plastic baskets and can be moved anytime. A great solution if you're a renter!

4. Turntables = Effortless Access to Pantry & Fridge Items

Lazy Susans aren’t just for Grandma anymore. Use them in corner cabinets, fridges, or even under sinks for quick access to hard-to-reach items.

This one from West Elm is simple, movable and makes a world of difference when trying to access items in a fridge or in a cabinet

Sustainability Tip:

Buy turntables made of bamboo or recycled acrylic for a green touch.

5. Hang Utensils, Towels or Tools to Free Up Drawer Space

Wall-mounted rods or adhesive hooks let you store frequently used tools or towels within reach. It’s both practical and adds a touch of industrial-chic style.

Aesthetic Tip:

Stick to one metal finish or color theme to keep things cohesive and clutter-free.

6. Create Zones to Streamline Cooking

Group items by task: baking, prepping, brewing. Place baking tools near the oven, coffee mugs near the machine. It’s intuitive, efficient, and makes cooking joyful again.

Organization Tip:

Use labeled bins or trays in drawers and cabinets to keep zones separated and easy to maintain.

7. Use the Inside of Cabinet Doors (Seriously!)

Affix slim racks, mini baskets, or magnetic strips to the inside of cabinet doors. Ideal for spices, cutting boards, measuring spoons, and foil rolls.

There are several types ranging from simple hanging hooks to racks you can install that hold several types of items.

The one pictured above is a simple hook system from an Amazon seller that is a simple and inexpensive option.

Clever Tip:

This space is often forgotten but can hold a surprising amount of clutter-cutting potential.

Final Thoughts: Calm Starts in the Kitchen

Smart kitchen organization isn’t just about looks—it’s about simplifying your life and reducing the daily chaos. When everything has a home, meal prep becomes a form of self-care. Start with just one of these ideas, and build from there. Your future (more peaceful) self will thank you.

Want to level up your space even more? Check out some of our stylish refillable spray bottles and soap dispensers organization options at joiedesignsco.com and organize all of your cleaning products and soaps in a stylish, modern way. 

Contact Joie Designs if you ever have questions about our organization products.