Pots And Pans: Under-Sink Storage

Keeping the space under your sink cabinet neat and tidy can be a challenge, especially when it comes to storing bulky items like pots and pans. While it's not the ideal spot due to the risk of leaks and moisture, it can be a useful storage solution, especially in small kitchens. Here are some tips to maximise this space for your pots and pans:

Use a standing rack or cart

If you've run out of cabinet space and don't have the wall or ceiling space to hang your pots and pans, a standing rack or cart can be a great solution. This is also a good option if you're looking to free up cabinet space for other items.

A standing rack or cart can be tucked into a corner of your kitchen or walk-in pantry, instantly providing more storage space. If you don't want your pots and pans on display, you can use a standing rack for more eye-catching dishware or a rolling cart for frequently used items. This will free up cabinet space for your pots and pans.

A rolling cart can be easily moved around your kitchen, allowing you to access your pots and pans wherever you're working. When not in use, you can tuck it away in a corner or a nearby closet.

If you're looking for a more stylish option, consider a standing pot rack like the one used by television personality Carla Hall. Her rack takes up minimal space and serves as a display piece.

When choosing a standing rack or cart, consider the amount of space you have available and the weight of your cookware. Some racks and carts may not be sturdy enough to hold heavier pots and pans. Additionally, if you're looking to store your pots and pans out of sight, opt for a rack or cart with shelves or compartments that can accommodate the size and shape of your cookware.

Install cabinet dividers

If you have narrow cabinets, installing permanent cabinet dividers is a smart choice for optimising your space. Cabinet dividers are typically made of wood or the same material as your cabinets and are installed vertically to allow you to stand skillets, baking pans and lids on their sides in individual compartments.

If you don't want to install permanent dividers, you can use removable acrylic or plastic dividers instead. These dividers are a great way to keep your pots and pans from getting scratched and make it easier to find the right pot or pan when you need it.

If you have deep drawers, you can add your own dividers to keep your pots and pans organised. These can be made from cheap foam board. Simply cut the foam board into the right shape and stick them down into the drawer to create separate sections for different types of cookware.

Another option is to use a pan organiser rack, installed vertically in your cabinet. This allows you to remove one pan without having to touch the others.

If you're designing a kitchen from scratch, built-in drawer dividers are a great option for storing pots and pans. Just make sure that the drawers are deep enough that the handles don't get in the way and the drawer can still close.

Create a cookware accent wall

While it is generally not recommended to store your pots and pans under the sink due to the risk of leaks and moisture, if you are set on utilising this space, consider investing in an absorbent mat to soak up any potential leaks. Alternatively, you can use containers to keep your cookware covered and protected from moisture.

Now, if you are looking to create a cookware accent wall, here are some ideas to get you started:

Firstly, consider the design aesthetic you want to achieve. A popular choice is the rustic look, with exposed beams, French-style cabinets, and dark fixtures. You can incorporate a rack of copper pots hung above the island or a chandelier over the dining table to showcase your cookware.

Another option is the English Country style, characterised by pretty greys, brick, and wooden accents. Displaying rustic, wooden cutting boards and vintage bread boxes can add to this cosy and traditional aesthetic.

If you're feeling more adventurous, try a tropical-themed accent wall with bold and bright colours. Pair a botanical print wallpaper with simple cabinets and fill your shelves with items like bamboo bar stools, rattan baskets, and wooden bowls to complete the tropical jungle vibe.

For a modern twist, opt for a sleek subway tile backsplash or a wallpaper that mimics tiling. Choose tonal greys or light sage green cabinets to complement your tile choice.

Don't be afraid to mix textures to create a dramatic contrast. Consider a brick or wood panel accent wall, or even use 3D wallpaper or self-adhesive tiles to achieve this effect without the hassle of construction.

Lastly, remember that an accent wall is a great opportunity to showcase your personality and bring attention to an area that is often overlooked. Whether it's through colour, pattern, or the creative display of your cookware, have fun with it and make it your own!

Utilise the oven drawer

If you're looking to organise your pots and pans under the sink, don't forget about the oven drawer! While it may be used for warming or as a broiler in some ovens, it's a great place to store cookie sheets, muffin tins, and other similar pans that can be easily stacked. This will free up space in your cabinets and drawers, making it easier to access your pots and pans while cooking.

If you don't have an oven drawer, or if it's being used for another purpose, you can also utilise the space under your oven. This area often goes unused, so it's perfect for storing larger pots and pans that might not fit elsewhere. Just be sure to measure the space before purchasing any storage solutions to ensure they fit properly.

Another option is to install sliding racks or drawers in the space under your oven. This can make retrieving your pots and pans more convenient and help maximise the storage potential of this often-overlooked area.

If you're looking to make the most of limited space, consider investing in some stackable or nesting pots and pans. These can be tucked away in the oven drawer, taking up minimal space while still providing all the functionality you need for your cooking endeavours.

By utilising the oven drawer and the surrounding area, you can create a well-organised system for your pots and pans, making your cooking experience more efficient and enjoyable.

Repurpose pantry space

If you're lucky enough to have a large pantry, it can be a great place to store your pots and pans. This is especially useful if you have a walk-in pantry, as it will allow you to easily access your cookware. Larger soup pots and other special-occasion items that you don't use regularly can be neatly stored in the pantry, freeing up space in your kitchen cabinets for more frequently used items.

If your pantry has wire tiers or shelves, you can make use of the vertical space by adding additional layers with storage racks. This will give you more space to store pans, and you can also add dividers for pot lids to ensure you always find the one you need. If you have a smaller pantry, you can still store larger, heavier, or less frequently used pots and pans there to free up cabinet space.

To make the most of your pantry space, consider using a cookware rack to keep your pots and pans organised and prevent them from getting scratched. You can also try stacking your pots and pans in size order, with smaller pots inside larger ones, to save space. However, this may damage the finish of your cookware, so it's recommended to use pot and pan protectors or kitchen towels between each pan.

Frequently asked questions