How to Organise Spices in a Small Kitchen: Smart Space-Saving Ideas
Posted by Jessica Marcus on
Small kitchens can pose a challenge when it comes to storage, especially for avid home cooks with a love for spices. But don’t worry—there are plenty of creative and efficient ways to keep your spices organised and within easy reach, even in limited spaces.
Here’s a roundup of practical tips to organise your spices in a small kitchen:
1. Think Vertical
Make the most of your walls by installing vertical spice racks or shelves. If you have a large spice collection, opt for racks that hold bottles horizontally or on their sides to maximise space while keeping everything visible.
2. Use Empty Wall Space
Empty wall areas in your kitchen or pantry can become prime storage real estate. Consider hanging pegboards, magnetic spice racks, or narrow shelves to hold your spice jars.
3. Take Advantage of Door Backs
The back of pantry or cabinet doors is a hidden gem for spice storage. Install over-the-door spice racks or attach magnetic spice jars to a metal sheet secured to the door for easy access.
4. Dedicate a Drawer
If you can spare a drawer, transform it into a spice haven. Use a drawer liner or organizer to keep jars in place and prevent rolling. Arrange them by type or alphabetically for added convenience.
5. Decant into Uniform Containers
Transfer your spices into matching containers like square jars, mason jars, or stackable deli containers. Not only does this save space, but it also gives your spice storage a clean, cohesive look. Be sure to label each jar clearly with the spice name and expiry date.
6. Embrace Multi-Tiered Organisers
Use tiered organisers or Lazy Susans to make the most of your cabinet or countertop space. These compact tools provide easy access to every jar, even those tucked in the back.
7. Repurpose a Letter Organiser
Hang a letter organiser on your wall and use its compartments to hold small spice jars. It’s a clever way to repurpose a simple item for efficient storage.
8. Use Baskets for Categorisation
Group spices by cuisine or type and store them in baskets. These can be easily pulled out of cabinets or shelves while cooking, keeping everything you need in one place.
9. Try Cabinet Door Clips
For a no-drill option, consider spice clips that attach to the inside of cabinet doors. These hold individual jars securely and keep your spices organised and accessible.
10. Get Creative with DIY Solutions
Customise your storage with DIY ideas. For instance, attach magnets to an IKEA pegboard with small trays to create a magnetic spice rack for your fridge or wall.
Extra Tips for Managing Your Spice Collection
Alphabetise Your Spices: Save time by arranging your jars in alphabetical order.
Store in Cool, Dark Places: Heat and light can degrade the quality of spices, so keep them away from stoves and windows.
Buy in Smaller Quantities: Purchase smaller amounts of spices to ensure freshness and flavour.
Check Expiry Dates Regularly: Toss expired spices or those that have lost their aroma and taste.
With a bit of planning and creativity, even the smallest kitchens can accommodate a well-organised spice collection. By following these tips, you’ll make cooking more enjoyable and your space more functional. Happy organising!
Visit our page for spice racks, to pick the best one for you.