Protect Cookware: Scratch-Free Storage

Pots and pans are essential in every kitchen, but they can be tricky to store. If you're looking to keep your cookware scratch-free, there are several clever ways to organise your cupboards, drawers and walls to maximise space and keep your pots and pans in pristine condition. From hanging racks to custom drawers, here are some ideas to get you started on a more organised kitchen.

Use a vertical pan organiser

A vertical pan organiser is a great way to store your pots and pans without scratching them. This storage method keeps your pans in a tower, with each pan on a different shelf, so they don't touch each other. This means that you can easily access your pans without the risk of scratching their coated surface.

There are a few different types of vertical pan organisers to choose from. One option is to use a vertical pan organiser tower with expandable shelves. These shelves can be adjusted to the width of your choice, allowing you to fit multiple items on each shelf without them touching. This is perfect for a pan cabinet, as it instantly creates extra space and makes it easy to grab the pan you need.

Another option is a simple tiered holder, which can be placed in a cabinet or even on a countertop. This type of vertical pan organiser is perfect for storing pans vertically, and it helps you make use of space that would otherwise be empty. You can find storage racks like this online or at most home goods stores.

If you're looking for a more customisable option, consider a DIY pegboard. A pegboard is a versatile and affordable storage solution that can be used in the kitchen to hang pots and pans, as well as other kitchen tools like utensils, cutting boards, and measuring cups. The pegs on the pegboard can be continually reconfigured to create new ways of storing your pans and other items.

Using a vertical pan organiser is a great way to keep your pots and pans organised, accessible, and scratch-free. By choosing the right type of organiser for your space, you can create extra storage space and make your kitchen more functional and efficient.

Store lids separately

If you're looking to store your pot lids separately from their matching pots, there are several creative and practical solutions to explore. Here are some ideas to get you started:

Utilize a Lid Organizer Rack

A lid organizer rack is a simple and effective solution for sorting various-sized lids. These racks typically feature adjustable dividers, allowing for customization based on your lid collection. You can place the rack inside a cabinet or on a countertop, making it easily accessible while saving valuable space.

Install a Lid Rack on the Cabinet Door

To make the most of your cabinet space, consider installing a lid rack on the inside of your cabinet door. This setup makes use of underutilized space and ensures your lids are neatly organized and within reach. The rack can accommodate multiple lids, preventing them from getting misplaced.

Use Adhesive Hooks Inside Cabinet Doors

Adhesive hooks offer a straightforward and cost-effective solution. Simply attach the hooks to the inside of your cabinet doors and hang the lids by their handles. This method maximizes storage space and keeps your lids organized and accessible.

Incorporate a Pegboard for Lid Storage

Pegboards are a versatile option that allows for flexibility and customization. You can adjust the position of hooks or pegs to accommodate lids of different sizes. Install a pegboard on a wall or cabinet door, and hang your lids for easy access. Pegboards can also be used to store other kitchen items, maximizing their functionality.

Employ Tension Rods to Organize Lids

Tension rods provide a simple and inexpensive solution. Install them vertically inside your cabinets to create separate compartments for each lid, preventing scratches and damage. Tension rods are easy to install, customizable, and can be used for multiple storage needs.

Use a Towel Bar to Hang Pot Lids

For a unique storage idea, repurpose a towel bar as a lid holder. Mount it on the inside of a cabinet door or on a wall, and hang the lids by their handles. This method saves cabinet space, provides easy access, prevents lid clutter, and reduces the risk of scratches.

Install a ceiling pot rack

Hanging a ceiling pot rack is a great way to clear up cabinet space and keep your pots and pans within arm's reach. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to install a ceiling pot rack:

Step 1: Choose a Pot Rack

Wrought iron pot racks come in various sizes and styles. Select one that fits your kitchen's size and aesthetics, as you will be looking at it almost every day.

Step 2: Choose the Hanging Spot

The ideal location for a pot rack is within reach, typically over kitchen islands, sinks, or counter areas. Consider where you do most of your cooking and prep work so that your utensils are always close at hand. Also, ensure that the rack does not block ceiling lights or natural light sources and does not obstruct views into other rooms.

Step 3: Determine the Hanging Height

The rack should be hung at a comfortable arm's reach, considering the height of your ceiling and the average length of your pots and pans. A good rule of thumb is to hang the rack approximately 42" above the counter space below. Subtract the size of the rack from 42" to determine the distance from the ceiling to hang the rack.

Step 4: Locate the Ceiling Joists

Pot racks should be hung from the ceiling joists or wooden beams for support. You can use a stud finder or look for nails or nail heads in the drywall to locate the joists. A stud finder will beep or flash when it detects a solid frame. If you don't have a stud finder, check for joists every 16" to 24" and tap the area to find the solid frame.

Step 5: Drill the Pilot Holes

Once you've located the ceiling joists and decided on the hanging spot, measure the distance between the chains of the pot rack and mark the ceiling accordingly. Drill pilot holes, ensuring they are not larger than the ceiling hooks that will be used to hang the rack. Keep the rack squared over the counter, island, or sink.

Step 6: Secure the Chains and Attach the Rack

Screw the ceiling hooks into the drilled holes. Decide on the desired length of the chains, and then hang them on the hooks without the rack to reduce weight. Adjust the chain length as needed, and then attach your pot rack to the chains. Finally, hang your pots and pans evenly around the rack to maintain balance.

Tips and Considerations:

• If your ceiling joists do not align perfectly with the desired hanging spot, you can hang the chains diagonally as long as they are closer together at the ceiling than on the rack.
• Avoid hanging the wrought iron rack directly above the stove, as the pots and pans may collect grease from cooking.
• Ceiling-mounted pot racks can support a fair amount of weight, so ensure you attach them to the ceiling joists rather than just screwing them into the drywall or plaster.
• It is easier to install a ceiling pot rack with the help of another person.

Use a wall-mounted pegboard

A wall-mounted pegboard is a versatile and affordable storage solution for your pots and pans. Pegboards are highly customisable, allowing you to continually reconfigure the pegs to create new ways of storing items and additional racks or organisers. They are also incredibly versatile, with the ability to store anything from pots and pans to kitchen shears, spatulas, ladles, immersion blenders, and other tools.

To set up a wall-mounted pegboard, you will need a few basic tools, such as a drill and a tape measure. You can purchase all the necessary materials from a hardware store or a home improvement store. The materials include a pre-drilled pegboard, a wooden plank for mounting, wall anchors with matching screws, paint or clear polyurethane, and a paint roller, tray, and brush.

• Paint the pegboard and the plank: Even if you want to keep the natural colour of the pegboard, it is recommended to paint it with a clear polyurethane to seal and protect it from water damage. Don't forget to paint the top of the plank as well, as it will be visible through some of the holes in the pegboard. Use a wooden skewer to clear out any paint that collects in the holes. Let everything dry for at least 24 hours.
• Line up the plank with the pegboard: You will need at least two planks running vertically down the back of your pegboard, with the edges flush with the pegboard's edges. This will add stability and provide anchor points for the wall.
• Attach the pegboard to the planks: Use a drill and small brass wood screws to attach the pegboard to the planks.
• Mark the location on the wall: Hold the pegboard in the desired location on the wall and mark the corners with a pencil.
• Drill holes: Drill four holes through the pegboard and plank into the wall, one in each corner near the brass screw.
• Insert wall anchors: Move the pegboard aside and push one anchor into each of the four holes.
• Hang the pegboard: Drill screws through the board and into each anchor to secure it to the wall.
• Touch up the screws: Use paint to cover the heads of the screws for a seamless finish.
• Organise and decorate: Now, you can use hooks and brackets to hang shelves, baskets, and more on your pegboard.

By following these steps, you can create a functional and customisable storage solution for your pots and pans, maximising your wall space and keeping your kitchen organised and scratch-free.

Invest in custom drawers

Pots and pans can be bulky and take up a lot of room, and their long handles can be hard to fit inside small cabinets. If you're looking for a way to store your pots and pans without scratching, investing in custom drawers can be a great solution. Here are some reasons why:

• Custom drawers can be designed to fit the specific size and shape of your pots and pans, ensuring a perfect fit and maximizing storage space. This eliminates the need to stack them, which can cause scratching and damage to their coated surfaces.
• Deep drawers are ideal for storing pots and pans, as they provide ample room for cookware with lids. You can install bigger drawers during a kitchen renovation or opt for narrow ones specifically for pans.
• Custom drawers offer a more organized and accessible storage solution. With dividers or built-in organizers, you can separate pots, pans, and lids, making it easier to find what you need without rummaging through cabinets.
• Drawers with soft-close mechanisms and full-access drawer glides provide a seamless and convenient user experience. No more struggling with sticky or loud drawers when accessing your cookware.
• Custom drawers can be designed to complement your kitchen's style and layout. Whether you have a spacious kitchen with an island or a limited space, custom drawers can be tailored to your specific needs and preferences.
• Drawers are a great way to utilize the lower cabinets in your kitchen. They allow for easy access to pots and pans without straining your back, as you don't have to bend down or remove multiple items to reach what's in the back.

By investing in custom drawers, you can effectively store your pots and pans without scratching, while also enhancing the functionality and aesthetics of your kitchen.

Frequently asked questions