Kitchen Storage: Pots And Pans

People put their pots and pans in a variety of places, depending on their kitchen setup and personal preferences. Some common places include inside kitchen cabinets, drawers or pantries, or hung on walls, windows, or ceilings. Others store their pots and pans on rolling carts, kitchen islands, or underneath the stove or kitchen island.

Hanging pots and pans on a wall

If you're looking for a straightforward solution, consider a metal bar rack with S-hooks. This type of rack is easy to install and can hold multiple pots and pans. You can find these racks in various materials, including iron, stainless steel, and even wooden options. They are also available in different sizes, so you can choose one that fits your space.

For a more decorative option, consider a wall-mounted pot rack with a shelf. These racks usually have two tiers of rails and come with a set of hooks for hanging pots, pans, and utensils. Some even have a towel bar and a lid organiser. This type of rack is perfect if you want to display your cookware as part of your kitchen decor.

If you're looking for a more flexible solution, consider a kitchen pegboard. Pegboards are a great way to organise your pots, pans, and kitchen supplies in a stylish and eclectic way. You can find pegboard kits in various colours that include hooks, shelves, and other accessories. This option allows you to customise your storage solution and add more components as needed.

When choosing a wall-mounted pot and pan rack, consider the weight of your cookware and the sturdiness of the rack. If you have heavy pots and pans, look for a rack made of durable materials and ensure it is securely mounted to the wall.

Additionally, think about the placement of your rack. The best spot is usually near the range, so your cookware is easily accessible while cooking. Just make sure the rack is high enough that you don't bump your head on the pots!

By hanging your pots and pans on a wall, you can free up cabinet space and add a decorative element to your kitchen.

Storing lids separately

Customise a corner cabinet

Corner cabinets can be tricky to organise, but they can be a great place to store lids. Consider installing a rack that slides out when you open the door, making use of all the available space. This can take the stress out of heavy lifting and awkward angles, and neatly display your lids.

Install a Lazy Susan cabinet

A Lazy Susan in a corner cabinet is an excellent investment and a great spot to store lids. Suspend the lids from the shelves and place them on the bottom for quick access. This makes it easy to find what you need without rummaging through a cluttered cabinet.

Use a lid organiser

Lid organisers are designed to keep lids of various sizes neat and tidy. They usually come in wood, plastic, or metal and can be placed inside a cabinet near your pots and pans for easy access.

Use an over-the-door rack

An over-the-door rack provides storage for multiple lids without taking up any cabinet shelf space. It can be installed on the inside of a cabinet door or mounted on the wall, keeping lids secure and easily removable.

Use a drawer divider

Drawer dividers are an inexpensive way to organise lids. Usually made from bamboo wood, they are extendable to fit most standard-sized drawers. Use them to arrange and hold lids in place, keeping them separate from pots and pans.

Hang lids with pots

If you're hanging your pots and pans on a wall or ceiling rack, you can also hang the lids with them. Use hooks to hang the lids, or slide them behind the rail above the pots. This keeps everything together and easily accessible.

Stack lids vertically

If you're storing pots and pans in deep drawers, you can stack lids vertically along one side, using tension rods to separate them and keep them organised.

Store less-used lids elsewhere

If you're trying to save space in your kitchen, consider storing less-frequently-used lids in a pantry or another closet. This frees up valuable cabinet space for more often-used items, while still keeping the lids close at hand.

Using a rolling cart

If you are short on space, a rolling cart is an excellent option for storing your pots and pans. Here are some tips for making the most of a rolling cart for your kitchenware:

Choose the Right Cart

Select a rolling cart that suits your storage needs and space constraints. Consider the size of your pots and pans, as well as the number of items you need to store. Look for a cart with ample surface space and built-in drawers or shelves. Some carts have a combination of open shelves and closed cabinets, allowing for flexible storage options. If you intend to store heavy items like pots and pans, ensure the cart is made of sturdy materials and has durable wheels that can withstand the weight.

Optimize Storage Space

Make the most of your rolling cart by utilizing all its features. The bottom shelves or compartments are ideal for storing larger, bulkier items like pots and pans, while the top containers or drawers can be reserved for lids, utensils, and smaller items. If your cart has hooks or a towel rack, use them to hang utensils, pot holders, or hand towels. You can also hang pots and pans on the hooks if they have holes in their handles.

Consider Accessibility

Place your rolling cart in an area that is easily accessible when cooking. You may want to position it near your stove or cooking area to facilitate easy access to your pots and pans during meal preparation. Ensure there is enough space to comfortably pull out the cart and navigate it around your kitchen. If you have limited space, look for a cart that can be tucked into a corner when not in use but still allows for easy maneuverability when needed.

Combine with Other Storage Solutions

A rolling cart can be part of a more comprehensive storage system for your pots and pans. For example, you could hang frequently used pots and pans on a pot rail or ceiling rack and reserve the rolling cart for less commonly used items. Alternatively, use the rolling cart as your primary storage solution and supplement it with a pot lid organizer rack or adjustable pan organizers in your drawers or cabinets.

Maintain and Organize Your Cart

Periodically clean your rolling cart and the items stored on it to ensure hygiene and prevent the buildup of dirt and grease. You may also want to line the shelves or compartments with a washable mat or liner for easier maintenance. To optimize space usage, consider using stackable pot and pan protectors, which can help prevent scratches and allow for more efficient stacking of your cookware.

Deep drawers for cookware

Deep drawers are a great way to store your pots and pans efficiently, keeping them readily accessible and ensuring your kitchen is a functional and enjoyable space. Here are some reasons why deep drawers for cookware are a good idea, along with some considerations to keep in mind.

Advantages of Deep Drawers for Cookware:

• Convenience and Accessibility: Deep drawers prevent you from spending unnecessary time and energy searching for lids and utensils at the back of a deep cabinet. With everything in one place, you'll no longer need to rummage through cabinets to find what you need.
• Symmetrical Style: In addition to functionality, deep drawers for cookware can also contribute to a symmetrical and aesthetically pleasing kitchen design.
• Customizable Storage: Deep drawers can be tailored to your exact specifications, with options for dividers, internal pan racks, or bespoke solutions to suit your cookware collection.
• User-Friendly Design: By giving each item its own space, you avoid the frustration of having frequently used items buried underneath others. Deep drawers can accommodate a range of cookware sizes and types, making them a versatile storage option.

Considerations for Deep Drawers:

• Drawer Depth: The standard depth for a pots and pans drawer is typically around 21 inches, but you may need to measure your tallest pot or pan to ensure it fits comfortably.
• Number of Drawers: Consider your storage needs and the size of your cookware collection. While deep drawers offer ample space, having two or three drawers can provide more versatility and organization.
• Drawer Weight: Deep drawers can become heavy, especially when stacked with multiple pots and pans. Ensure you have sturdy glides and hardware to support the weight.
• Protection and Scratch Prevention: Stacking pots and pans can result in scratching and rattling. Consider using pan protectors and lining the bottom of the drawer to prevent scratches and reduce noise.

Storing pots and pans on an island

Choose the Right Island

If you don't already have a built-in island, consider investing in a kitchen cart, which can provide extra storage space for your pots and pans. Alternatively, you could opt for a custom-built island with features such as deep drawers, slide-out shelves, or a lazy Susan to make storing and accessing your cookware easier.

Utilise Open Shelving

If your island has open shelving, make use of it! Nest several pots together to save space, and store the lids elsewhere to create a flatter surface for stacking. You can also use dividers or tension rods to keep lids organised and prevent them from rattling around. Just remember that open shelving requires more regular tidying to maintain a neat and clutter-free space.

Hang Pots and Pans

Hanging pots and pans from rails or hooks underneath your island can be a great way to save space and keep your cookware within easy reach. This method also works well in combination with open shelving, allowing you to store lids or less frequently used items on the shelves, while keeping your most-used pots and pans within easy reach.

Use Creative Storage Solutions

There are plenty of creative ways to store pots and pans on your island. For example, you could invest in a standing pot rack, similar to the one used by television personality Carla Hall, or try a rolling cart that can be tucked into a corner when not in use. If you're feeling crafty, you could even convert an old dresser by removing the drawers and adding hooks to the underside of the surface.

Keep it Tidy

Remember to regularly declutter and organise your pots and pans. Only keep the items you use regularly, and store special-occasion cookware separately. Group items by use and stack them by size, starting with the largest on the bottom. Use protectors between stacked pots and pans to prevent scratching, and consider using labels to help family members put things back in the right place.

By combining these strategies, you can make the most of your island storage and create a kitchen that is both functional and stylish.

Frequently asked questions