Kitchen storage can be hard to come by, especially in larger cities like NYC. Kitchens are often either cramped or come with very little storage to fit other things like a dishwasher. Unfortunately, kitchens are often the room that requires the most storage, especially for those who love to be adventurous in the kitchen. So what are folks to do? What are some of the best ways to increase kitchen storage? There are several products and techniques folks can employ to maximize space without sacrificing counter space. Some of the best ways to increase kitchen storage are:
Spice and Utensil Racks
Racks for spices and larger utensils are a great way to save cabinet space in the kitchen. Most are easy to install and remove, and it can even be helpful for amateur chefs who like to see what they’re working with. Some great options for racks include:
1.) Culture 2 Tier Spice and Hanging Rack
This rack is perfect for those requiring extra spice and utensil storage. The spice rack has two levels, the top one for smaller spice containers and the bottom for large spice containers or sauces. The utensil rack has seven hooks to hang things like spatulas or ladles, and a deep shelf that can fit cutting boards.
2.) Magnetic Kitchen Organizer From Pottery Barn
This magnetic marvel can be slipped right on a refrigerator, and is sturdy enough to hold spices, utensils, and more without slipping off. The top shelf is for spices and/or cooking oils, the bottom level has hooks for utensils, and the middle level is a paper towel holder. This product frees up a ton of counter space.
3.) NaneTidy Spice Rack Organizer
The name of this product doesn’t do it justice, as it holds way more than just spices. It’s true that there are four different levels for spices to live, but there is also a small knife block, hooks for utensils, a small shelf for silverware, and even a rack to hold cutting boards. This rack has a little bit of everything.
Kitchen Islands
This might seem counterintuitive for those seeking to create more space, but kitchen islands give people more storage options, counter space, and a ton of them have wheels now so that they can roll anywhere in a home. Some of the best include:
1.) Ewart Wide Rolling Kitchen Island From Alcott Hill
This island is perfect for those who need a little more counter space but are seeking more subtle decor. In terms of storage, larger equipment, like a mixer, works best here, as the shelves of this piece allow for such items to be prominently displayed. There are also some small drawers for utensils and other kitchen aids.
2.) Oak-Top Four Drawer Kitchen Top From Homestyles
This mobile island is a storage behemoth. It has four large drawers, as the name suggested, but it also has two large cabinets that flank said drawers, meaning almost anything found in a kitchen can fit here. In addition to the drawers and cabinets, it has a paper towel holder on one side and a small spice rack on the other.
3.) Frame Kitchen Console From Butcher Block
This island might seem simple, but it has a lot going on. Not only does it provide extra counter space, but it also has shelving for plates and larger kitchen equipment. Even better, that shelving only exists on one side of the piece, which means the other side makes for a great seating area. This bar is much more than meets the eye.
Other Kitchen Storage Ideas
Not everyone can install a spice rack or have space for an island. That said, there are other ways to increase kitchen storage that are doable in almost any home. Some of the best alternatives include:
Small Metal Shelving
While smaller than a kitchen island, and not ideal to use as a countertop, these sleeves are good at holding a lot of items. Many use them to store plating, spices, and even larger kitchen equipment. Units like this one are easy to find and usually pretty cheap, though they can be a bit light, so it’s good to store heavier items on the bottom shelf so it doesn’t tip over. These units are typically smaller and shorter than other kitchen items, so it’s easier to find a place for them.
Extra Closet Space
Some homes have some extra closet space that isn’t being used, especially if the closet is rather tall. If that’s the case, installing a shelf or two for a makeshift pantry can save a household a ton of space in the kitchen. Storing food that can’t go into the refrigerator always takes up a lot of kitchen space, and having an extra shelf in a barely used closet is a great way to fix that problem. Many foods also need to be stored in room temperature, dark spaces, so this is another benefit of a closet pantry.
Portable Dishwasher
Many people sacrifice kitchen space for a dishwasher, but it doesn’t have to be this way. Even though they can only washer smaller loads of dishes, portable dishwashers will still get the job done and can be stored in a closet after it’s been used. Residents shouldn’t have to choose between storage and easy dishwashing when they can easily have both, so this is a great option to keep in mind.
Additional kitchen storage options always seem counterintuitive since they require adding more things to the kitchen. Adding shelving, islands, or even maximizing closet space can make people feel slightly cramped initially. However, when it comes to storage, people will be shocked at how well these things work. They will save a ton of space, create new ways for people to use their kitchens, and can even add some beautiful decor to a home. These products and strategies will make any kitchen a force to be reckoned with. It doesn’t matter if it’s a chef or someone who only heats up pre-packaged ramen. Everyone should try these strategies to maximize their NYC apartment kitchen usage.
