8 Things You Should Never Put In A Small Kitchen, According To Designers
Small kitchens can feel like puzzle boxes where every inch matters. When space is at a premium, what you choose to keep (or toss) makes all the difference between a cramped cooking nightmare and a functional food prep haven.
I’ve consulted with top designers to identify the space-hogging culprits that have no business taking up your precious kitchen real estate.
1. Bulky Appliance Collections
Your waffle maker, pasta machine, and bread maker might seem essential, but they’re eating up valuable counter space. I recommend keeping only multi-purpose appliances that you use at least weekly. Store seasonal gadgets elsewhere or consider appliance-sharing with friends.
One designer told me she keeps a “kitchen library” with neighbors where they swap specialty appliances as needed.
2. Mismatched Storage Containers
Random plastic containers with missing lids create unnecessary chaos in compact kitchens. Replace that jumbled mess with a single nesting set that stores efficiently when not in use. Square or rectangular containers maximize drawer space better than round ones.
My favorite designer hack? Clear containers with color-coded lids make finding the right size a breeze while keeping your cabinets looking organized.
3. Decorative Dish Collections
Grandma’s china set might hold sentimental value, but displaying complete dish collections devours precious cabinet space. Keep just a few special pieces as decor and store the rest elsewhere. Several designers recommend limiting everyday dishes to exactly what you need for your household plus two guests.
For larger gatherings, consider elegant disposables or borrowing extra place settings from family when needed.
4. Knife Blocks On Countertops
Traditional wooden knife blocks are counter space thieves! Magnetic wall strips store your knives safely while freeing up valuable work areas. They also make your knives easily accessible while cooking. For those who prefer enclosed storage, try in-drawer knife organizers.
My clients love how this solution keeps sharp edges away from curious little hands while maintaining a clean, uncluttered counter appearance.
5. Oversized Refrigerator
That massive side-by-side fridge might work in a sprawling suburban kitchen, but it’s suffocating your compact space. Counter-depth or apartment-sized refrigerators leave room for comfortable movement while still providing adequate storage.
Look for models with well-designed interiors that maximize every cubic inch. European designers have been creating space-efficient refrigerators for generations – their slimmer profiles could be your small kitchen salvation.
6. Pantry Items Without Homes
Bags of flour, cereal boxes, and random spice jars scattered about create visual chaos. Uniform containers with clear labels transform your small kitchen from cluttered to controlled. Stack vertically whenever possible!
One designer I work with recommends using the inside of cabinet doors with narrow shelves for spices and cooking oils. Maximizing this often-forgotten space keeps frequently used items accessible without sacrificing precious counter or shelf territory.
7. Pot Collections Without Purpose
Having fifteen different-sized pots and pans isn’t practical when storage is limited. Curate your collection to versatile essentials that can handle multiple cooking tasks. Nesting cookware sets are game-changers for tight spaces.
One Manhattan designer swears by a quality 3-piece set with removable handles that stacks beautifully. Remember that specialty pans used once a year for holiday cooking can live elsewhere in your home.
8. Unitasking Gadgets
Avocado slicers, banana hangers, and strawberry hullers might seem cute, but these single-purpose tools waste precious drawer space. Choose multi-functional tools that earn their keep through regular use. A quality chef’s knife can replace most slicing gadgets.
My favorite space-saving tip comes from a Tokyo-based designer who recommends selecting tools that perform at least three kitchen tasks. This simple rule prevents gadget overload while ensuring everything in your kitchen pulls its weight.
