We’ve all been there—you’re flipping through TV channels, relaxing in the evening, when you stumble upon the Home Shopping Network. Suddenly, a host is enthusiastically pitching a basic kitchen gadget like it’s a revolutionary must-have. Fast forward a few days, and that very appliance is sitting on your doorstep. But once the initial excitement fades, reality hits: now you’ve got to figure out where to store it.
Whether you’re dealing with a compact kitchen and need clever storage solutions for small appliances, or you’re looking to bring order to your spacious walk-in pantry, we’ve got you covered. Don’t let limited counter space or messy cabinets stress you out. Let us guide you through practical and stylish ways to organize your kitchen appliances.
Install a Mixer Lift
A stand mixer is one of the most popular items found on wedding registries—and for good reason. While it may not appear as bulky as your toaster or air fryer, it can take up a significant amount of space on your countertop, especially if you’re not using it daily (or even weekly). Unless you’re a passionate baker whipping up treats on the regular, chances are you’ll want to store it out of sight.
But here’s the catch: stand mixers are heavy and awkward to move, making high shelves a less-than-ideal storage spot. That’s why we love the idea of installing a mixer lift inside your cabinets. This clever solution keeps your mixer stored beneath the countertop, but easily accessible. When you’re ready to bake your family’s famous chocolate chip cookies, simply pull the lift up and out—your stand mixer is right there, ready to go. It’s the perfect way to keep your counters clear without sacrificing convenience.
Utilize Low Shelves or Cabinets
Imagine this: you’re hosting a holiday gathering and want to keep things simple. Instead of spending hours in the kitchen, you decide to make your crowd-pleasing slow cooker recipe—just prep it, set it, and enjoy the party. But when you go to grab your slow cooker, you realize it’s been stashed on the highest shelf in your pantry. You pull out a step stool and try to bring it down, struggling with the weight and hoping you don’t drop it.
To avoid situations like this—and potential accidents—it’s a smart idea to reorganize your kitchen or pantry so that heavier small appliances are stored on lower shelves. Save those upper cabinets and open shelving for lighter, more decorative items like glassware or dishes, and keep bulky appliances tucked below your counters. Not only does this make them easier to access, but it also helps keep your space looking clean and organized.
If you’re tight on cabinet or pantry space, consider adding a sideboard or storage cabinet in your dining area. It’s a great way to create extra storage while keeping your go-to kitchen tools within easy reach.
Use Shelf Risers for Visibility
We’re all familiar with using shelf risers to neatly organize spices—but have you ever thought about using them to store your small kitchen appliances more efficiently? While risers might not be the best fit for bulkier items like stand mixers, slow cookers, or toaster ovens, they’re perfect for more compact appliances like immersion blenders, standard blenders, food processors, hand mixers, juicers, and single-serve coffee makers.
You can place shelf risers on pantry shelves, inside base cabinets, or even within a sideboard. They help you maximize vertical space, making it easier to store more without sacrificing visibility. That way, everything stays tidy and within reach, so you can quickly grab the appliance you need—right when you need it.
Build a Coffee Nook
Are you one of the many who can’t start the day without a hot cup of coffee? If so, you probably have an assortment of gadgets you’ve collected in pursuit of the perfect brew. From pour-over kettles and coffee grinders to espresso machines and single-serve brewers, there’s rarely a one-size-fits-all solution—so naturally, you end up with them all. The result? A beautifully curated coffee routine… and a very cluttered countertop.
That’s why we love the idea of creating a dedicated coffee nook inside a large cabinet. This setup keeps all your coffee essentials within easy reach for daily use, but tucked neatly behind closed doors when not in use. Depending on the cabinet’s size, you can even store your favorite mugs, sweeteners, stirrers, and other coffee bar essentials all in one spot. It’s a smart, stylish way to enjoy your at-home barista experience—without the mess.
Design an Appliance Hutch
Some call it an appliance hutch, others know it as an appliance garage or cubby—but no matter the name, it’s a clever solution for keeping your kitchen looking clean and organized. If you have a few small appliances you like to keep within arm’s reach—like a toaster, coffee maker, or blender—but hate the cluttered look (not to mention the tangle of cords), this setup could be perfect for you.
While an appliance hutch does take up a bit of countertop space, it still leaves you with plenty of room to work when needed. The beauty of it is in the design: your frequently used appliances are tucked away behind a cabinet door that blends seamlessly with the rest of your kitchen, offering both convenience and a streamlined aesthetic.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the most popular small kitchen appliances?
Most kitchens come equipped with the essentials—an oven, stove, microwave, and dishwasher—though the exact setup can vary depending on where you live. Beyond those basics, small kitchen appliances are where your personal preferences and lifestyle really come into play. Whether you’re a coffee connoisseur, a health-conscious home chef, or someone who simply loves convenience, there’s a gadget for you.
Some of the most popular small kitchen appliances include blenders, toasters, toaster ovens, air fryers, slow cookers, mixers, electric kettles, and coffee makers. These tools can make everyday cooking faster, easier, and more enjoyable. Ultimately, the appliances you find most essential will depend on how you like to cook, eat, and spend time in your kitchen.
What is the best method for organizing small kitchen appliances?
The best way to organize small kitchen appliances depends on your kitchen’s size, layout, and how many appliances you own—but there are a few general guidelines that can help make the process easier and more efficient.
Start by keeping your most-used appliances easily accessible. Anything you rely on daily—like a coffee maker or toaster—should stay on the countertop or on a low, easy-to-reach shelf. Appliances you use less frequently can be stored out of the way, such as on higher cabinet shelves, in your pantry, or even in a sideboard, closet, or garage if space allows.
As you’re organizing, take the opportunity to declutter. If you come across appliances you rarely or never use, consider donating or selling them. There’s no reason to let them take up valuable space in your kitchen. By keeping only what you truly use and need, your kitchen will feel more functional, tidy, and easier to navigate.
How do I properly store a toaster oven in my kitchen?
A toaster oven is one of the most commonly used kitchen appliances that doesn’t come built-in like your refrigerator, oven, microwave, or dishwasher. More often than not, it ends up living on your countertop—and that’s usually the best spot for it, since it’s easily accessible to everyone in the household.
However, placement is key for both safety and functionality. While it’s perfectly fine to keep your toaster oven on the counter, make sure it’s not pushed too far back under your cabinets. Toaster ovens generate a significant amount of heat when in use, and poor ventilation can lead to heat damage on your cabinetry—or worse, pose a fire hazard.
To store it properly, choose a spot that offers enough clearance around the appliance, especially at the back and top. If you don’t use it daily and want to keep your counters clear, consider storing it in a lower cabinet or appliance garage with plenty of airflow, and only bring it out when needed.
How do I hide a microwave in a small kitchen?
In small kitchens, finding a spot for your microwave can be a challenge. While many kitchens have them built in above the stove or tucked under the counter, limited space might rule out those options—leaving the microwave to take up valuable counter space.
To free up your prep area, consider alternative storage options that still provide easy access. With proper ventilation, you can place your microwave inside a small pantry or on top of a sideboard in your dining area. These spots keep the appliance out of sight while still being functional, helping you maintain a clean, clutter-free kitchen without sacrificing convenience.