How to Get More Counter Space in a Small Kitchen

In a small kitchen, every inch of counter space counts. Preparing meals can feel like a juggling act if you’re limited on surfaces for chopping, stirring, and food prepping. Thankfully, with a little creativity and smart organization, you can make the most of your limited kitchen space.

We’ve put together a list of tips and tricks to help you get more counter space and make your small kitchen a more efficient and enjoyable cooking environment.

Get a Wall-Mounted Magnetic Spice Rack

When it comes to how to get more counter space in a small kitchen, it’s partially about freeing up space, not just adding it. Invest in a wall-mounted magnetic spice rack that securely holds your spice jars in place. It not only adds a decorative touch but also keeps your most-used spices within arm’s reach.

Add an Over-the-Sink Cutting Board

An over-the-sink cutting board is a game-changer for countertop space in a small kitchen. It expands your workspace by utilizing the sink area. You can chop, slice, and dice directly over the sink, making cleanup a breeze. Look for one with a built-in colander for even more added convenience.

Incorporate a Fold-Down or Pull-Out Countertop

If your kitchen layout allows, consider installing a fold-down or pull-out countertop extension. These versatile additions provide extra space when needed and can be easily stowed away when not in use. Use it for food prep, a small dining area, or as a tiny makeshift bar.

Mount a Hanging Pot and Pan Organizer

Pots and pans can take up a significant amount of cabinet space, which means you’re forced to store appliances on the counters instead. If you want to maximize counter space, consider using a hanging pot and pan organizer to free up room below—which will, in turn, free up your countertops since you can now put all your appliances away.

Store Knives on a Magnetic Strip

Say goodbye to a bulky knife block filling up your countertop and hello to a magnetic knife strip. Mount it on your backsplash or a convenient wall, and you’ll have easy access to your kitchen knives while maximizing your counter space.

Add Space with a Rolling Kitchen Cart

Yes, when thinking about how to get more counter space in a small kitchen, removing items is a good place to start. But adding new counter space is an option as well.

A rolling kitchen cart is a versatile addition to your small kitchen. Use it as a mobile prep station, a serving area, a bar cart, or extra storage. When not in use, simply roll it away to free up counter space. Look for one with shelves, drawers, and hooks for added functionality.

Keep Paper Towels on a Wall-Mounted Holder

Keep your paper towels off the counter with a wall-mounted paper towel holder. It’s a small change that can make a big difference in counter space availability while maintaining a clean and organized kitchen.

Add Kitchen Utensil Hooks

Extend the use of magnets in your kitchen by adding magnetic hooks to the side of your refrigerator (or any magnetic surface). This is a creative way to store utensils, kitchen towels, oven mitts, and other kitchen tools, freeing up precious drawer and counter space.

Incorporate Corner Shelving Units

Maximize space in those often-underutilized corners of your kitchen with corner shelving units. While a shelving unit might seem like it’ll take up more space in an already small kitchen, with the right design, they fit compactly into a, well, corner, and allow you to move items that would usually sit on your countertop to a new space. Add small appliances, dishes, or decorative items, allowing you to maximize counter space while adding a touch of charm to your kitchen.

Use Window Shelves

If you have a window above your kitchen sink, make sure you’re maximizing the storage space. Glass-adhering shelves can give you a flat surface for a small kitchen herb garden, cup storage, or other decoration. Get creative and don’t let that space go to waste.

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By implementing these creative solutions and selecting the right products, you can transform your cramped kitchen into a functional and enjoyable cooking space. Remember that small changes can have a significant impact, making meal preparation and kitchen life more enjoyable.