My kitchen is the heart of my home, but for a long time, it was also the source of my biggest headaches. With limited space, I’d find myself searching for the chupili (salt shaker) while my sufuria (pot) for the ugali was already on the stove. It felt like I was constantly battling a mountain of utensils and groceries. But I’ve learned a few tricks to make my small kitchen feel spacious and efficient. If you’re struggling to make your small kitchen work, I want to share my secrets with you.
1. Go Vertical with Your Storage
Think of your walls as prime real estate. I’ve found that using magnetic strips for knives and metal utensils not only keeps them organized but also frees up valuable drawer space. Open shelves are great for storing everyday items like spices and chai (tea) tins. You can also install a simple rack above your sink to dry dishes. This makes use of the vertical space that is often ignored.
2. Maximize Cabinet and Drawer Space
My drawers used to be a jumbled mess of cutlery and kitchen gadgets. Now, I use drawer dividers to keep things neat and tidy. For my cabinets, I use stackable shelves and risers to create more layers. This is great for stacking plates and bowls, or for organizing small appliances. You can find these at local stores or even create your own with some simple materials.
3. Use Multipurpose Tools
In a small kitchen, every item must earn its spot. I love tools that serve more than one purpose. For example, a single pot can be used for cooking, mixing, and even storing leftovers. A chopping board that doubles as a serving tray is another great space-saver. This principle of “less is more” has been a game-changer for me.
4. The Power of Decluttering
I’ve learned that if I haven’t used something in a year, I probably don’t need it. I regularly go through my kitchen and get rid of chipped mugs, duplicate spatulas, and expired food. Decluttering is a continuous process, but it’s one of the most impactful things you can do for a small space. A tidy counter is a happy counter!
5. Embrace Local and Affordable Solutions
You don’t need to spend a lot of money to organize your kitchen. I’ve found that simple plastic containers from the local market are perfect for storing grains, spices, and dried foods. Old jam jars can be repurposed as storage for sugar or salt. A shoebox can be used as a divider for your drawers. Creativity and resourcefulness go a long way in making a small kitchen functional and beautiful.
