Declutter Your Kitchen Cabinets With These Easy, Affordable Tips

Kitchen cabinets always seem to fill up faster than we think they will. Between extra gadgets, mismatched containers, and half-used spices, cabinet clutter can make cooking feel stressful.

The good news is, you don't need to spend much to get organized. With a few small changes, you can create a functional, tidy kitchen that’s easier to use every day.

Take everything out

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Getty Images/Unsplash+
Getty Images/Unsplash+

The first step to decluttering is taking everything out. Seeing what you actually have helps you spot duplicates, expired items, or things you never use.

Toss what you don't need, and don't forget to wipe everything else down before returning it to the cupboard.

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Group similar items together

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Keep your kitchen more functional by grouping similar items in the same area. Store baking supplies, canned goods, or spices together so you can find what you need quickly.

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This system helps you stay organized long-term and keeps you from buying things you already own.

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Use clear containers

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Clear containers make it easier to see what you have and prevent food waste. They're great for storing dry goods like pasta, rice, or cereal.

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Reusing jars or buying inexpensive storage sets can make your cabinets look neat without spending much. Matching containers also make small cabinets feel more open and calm.

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Label everything

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Labels take the guesswork out of finding things. They're especially helpful for flour, sugar, or other look-alike ingredients.

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You can use masking tape, stickers, or a simple marker. Labeling helps everyone in the household know where things go, keeping your cabinets organized for longer.

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Use vertical space

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Cabinet space often goes unused above short items. Stackable shelves, risers, or hooks make better use of that vertical room.

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You can add extra layers for plates or cups, freeing up space below. Even a simple wire shelf or tension rod can double your storage without requiring any permanent changes.

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Store lids separately

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Pot and container lids are some of the biggest space hogs. Instead of stacking them on top of their bases, store them upright in a basket or rack.

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This keeps everything tidy and prevents the usual avalanche when you open a cabinet. It's a small change that makes a big difference.

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Rotate older items

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When restocking your cabinets, move older items to the front and newer ones to the back. This simple grocery-store trick prevents waste and keeps your pantry fresh.

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You'll use what you have before it expires, saving both space and money.

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Maximize corner cabinets

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Corner cabinets can be awkward, but with a little creativity, they can become useful storage. Lazy Susans, pull-out shelves, or baskets make it easier to reach items in the back.

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Turning that unused space into an organized section helps every part of your kitchen work more efficiently.

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Get rid of duplicates

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You don't need five spatulas or three colanders. Keep the tools you use most and donate or recycle the extras.

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Fewer items mean less to dig through and clean. It’s easier to cook when your cabinets hold only what you actually need and use regularly.

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Use the inside of cabinet doors

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The back of cabinet doors is another area that offers valuable extra storage. Hooks or small organizers can hold measuring spoons, pot lids, or cleaning supplies.

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It's an inexpensive way to clear up shelf space while keeping everyday items easy to reach.

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Keep everyday items accessible

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Store the things you use most often within easy reach. Heavy pots, breakfast items, and mugs should go in lower or middle cabinets.

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Less-used tools and seasonal items can go higher up. Arranging by frequency of use makes your kitchen feel natural and efficient without constant rearranging.

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Transforming your space

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You don't need expensive organizers or a full renovation to declutter your kitchen cabinets. Simple habits can make a lasting difference.

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A tidy kitchen not only looks better but also makes cooking easier and more enjoyable. Small, affordable changes can completely transform your space.