Small Kitchen? No Pantry? These 5 Organization Hacks Are For You

Rachel M.
by Rachel M.

Disclosure: Simplify may receive a small affiliate commission from purchases made via links in this article but at no cost to you.  


If your kitchen is tight on storage space and/or missing a pantry, staying organized can feel like an uphill battle.


But with a few clever solutions, you can make the most of every inch and transform your kitchen into a tidy, functional space.


Here are some smart kitchen organization hacks for anyone who doesn’t have a pantry.

Small kitchen - image via Canva

1. Use a kitchen cart

A rolling kitchen cart is a game-changer for small or pantry-less kitchens. These versatile units offer extra surface area and storage, and many come with drawers, shelves, and hooks.


You can store anything from dry goods and utensils to small appliances. Best of all, when you're not using it, simply roll it into a corner or out of sight.

WDT 3 Tier Rolling Carts with Wheels - image via Amazon

2. Install a lazy Susan in corner cupboards

Corner cupboards often become black holes of unused space. Install a lazy Susan (or rotating tray) inside to make the full depth of your cabinet accessible.


No more lost spice jars or forgotten canned goods, just spin to find what you need.

Two Tier 10" Turntable Lazy Susan Spice Organizer - image via Amazon

3. Add pull-out shelves in deep cabinets

Deep lower cabinets can be frustrating. Items get buried in the back and are hard to reach.


Installing pull-out shelves (also called sliding or roll-out trays) helps you access everything without digging or rearranging.


They're perfect for heavy pots and pans, small appliances, or pantry items.

Pull Out Cabinet Organizer, Expandable - image via Amazon

4. Cupboard door organizers

Maximize the inside of cabinet doors with cupboard door organizers. These come in various sizes and are ideal for storing cutting boards, foil, zip bags, wraps, spices, or cleaning supplies.


You can even use shoe organizers on the back of a kitchen or pantry door to store snacks or dry ingredients.

2 Piece Kitchen Cabinet Door Storage - image via Amazon

5. Invest in stackable baskets

When cabinet space is limited, you often need to go vertical. Stackable storage baskets help you build upwards and stay organized. Clear containers also allow you to easily see what you have, reducing waste and repeat purchases. 

Wire Storage Baskets - image via Amazon

6. Hang items from your walls

Don’t overlook your walls—they’re valuable real estate in a small kitchen. With OOK ReadyNail®, you can easily hang shelves, racks, utensils, or even lightweight baskets without the usual hassle. These hooks come with pre-inserted nails, so you don’t need to fumble with tools or measure out placements.


They’re strong, reliable, and perfect for renters or anyone looking to maximize space without committing to permanent fixtures. Use them to hang potholders, cutting boards, or decorative baskets for a tidy, functional set-up

OOK ReadyNail® - image via OOK

Final thoughts

With a few thoughtful tweaks, you can create a kitchen that’s both organized and efficient. It's all about making your space work smarter, not bigger.


Which of these hacks will you try first? Comment down below.

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 2 comments
  • Julie Green Julie Green on Jan 24, 2026

    how about ideas for those in rentals that can't glue or nail things to walls n such??

  • Angela Angela on Jan 27, 2026

    I found these very heavy duty magnetic shelving units on Amazon. They are perfect for all my spices and stick to the side of my refrigerator. And they come in different colors.I absolutely love them.

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