If there’s one place in the kitchen that seems to descend into chaos faster than anywhere else, it’s the cabinet under the sink. It’s dark, cramped, full of awkward pipes, and has a knack for swallowing cleaning supplies whole. Many people avoid looking too closely in there, treating it like a black hole where half-used bottles, stray sponges, bin liners, and random odds and ends disappear. But it doesn’t have to be this way. With a few clever tricks, you can reclaim that space and turn it into one of the most efficient storage areas in your home. These are the best ways to organize under your kitchen sink—practical, affordable solutions that actually work.
1. Use Clear Bins and Containers
The simplest place to start is by grouping similar items together in clear bins or containers. Instead of bottles rolling around freely, use one bin for dishwashing products, another for general cleaners, and another for bin liners. Clear containers make it easy to see what you already have, helping you avoid buying duplicates or losing half-used bottles at the back.
They’re also excellent for containing spills. If a spray bottle leaks, the mess stays inside the bin instead of damaging the cabinet floor. Stackable drawers are ideal for smaller items like sponges, dishwasher pods, or cloths, while budget-friendly shoebox-style bins from discount shops work well for a quick, inexpensive fix. The key is consistency—using similar containers gives the space a neat, intentional look.
2. Add Sliding Baskets or Pull-Out Drawers
Reaching the back of the cabinet is usually awkward, especially when plumbing gets in the way. Sliding baskets solve this problem neatly. Two-tier pull-out organisers allow you to store frequently used items on the top and bulkier spares on the bottom. A quick pull brings everything forward, so you don’t have to dig through layers of bottles.
Adjustable designs are particularly useful because they can fit around pipes. Many homeowners say this single upgrade made the biggest difference to their under-sink space, turning the back of the cabinet from wasted space into prime storage.
3. Install a Tension Rod for Spray Bottles
One of the cleverest under-sink hacks is adding a tension rod to hang spray bottles by their trigger handles. It’s inexpensive, quick to install, and instantly frees up valuable floor space. By hanging sprays in a neat row, you keep the cabinet base clear for bins, baskets, or bulkier items.
You can take it a step further by adding S-hooks to the rod to hang brushes, gloves, or cloths. This low-commitment solution is perfect for renters because it doesn’t require drilling or permanent fittings, and it can be adjusted to suit your cabinet layout.
4. Use a Lazy Susan or Turntable
If items at the back of the cabinet are constantly getting lost, a Lazy Susan can fix that. By placing a rotating turntable inside the cabinet, you can simply spin it to bring items from the back to the front. No more digging around in dark corners.
Choose a model with raised edges or a non-slip surface to keep products in place as you spin. Two-tier versions are great for maximising vertical space, especially in narrow cabinets. This simple addition makes everything visible and accessible, reducing waste and frustration.
5. Install Adjustable Shelves or Stackable Organisers
Pipes often make under-sink cabinets an awkward shape, leaving plenty of unused vertical space. Adjustable shelves and stackable organisers help you work around this problem. By creating multiple levels, you can keep everyday products at eye level while storing backups below.
Many adjustable shelves are designed specifically for under-sink spaces, with removable slats or cut-outs to fit around pipes. Even inexpensive wire racks can create functional layers. Instead of piling everything on one flat surface, you give each category its own designated spot.
Recommended Products for Under-Sink Organisation
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Clear Bins and Containers: mDesign Storage Bins, Sterilite Drawer Units
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Sliding Baskets: SimpleHouseware 2-Tier Basket, YouCopia Expandable Drawer
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Tension Rod: Command Adjustable Rod, IKEA Curtain Rod Hack
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Lazy Susan: Copco Non-Skid Turntable, mDesign 2-Tier Turntable
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Adjustable Shelves: Simple Trending Expandable Rack, SONGMICS Stackable Drawers
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Extras: Waterproof mats to protect the base, hanging bins for gloves and sponges, catch-all baskets for bulk items
Step-by-Step Setup Plan
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Empty and Clean: Take everything out, wipe down the cabinet, and check for leaks.
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Protect the Base: Lay a waterproof mat or liner to prevent damage.
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Sort and Declutter: Group similar items together and get rid of duplicates or expired products.
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Add Core Organisers: Place bins or baskets to group supplies.
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Use Vertical Space: Install a tension rod and adjustable shelves to create layers.
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Improve Access: Add Lazy Susans or sliding drawers to reach the back easily.
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Maintain the System: Return items to their spots after use and do a quick check monthly.
Conclusion
The space under your kitchen sink doesn’t have to stay cluttered, dark, and frustrating. By applying the best ways to organize under your kitchen sink—from clear bins and sliding baskets to tension rods, turntables, and adjustable shelving—you can transform it into a practical, well-structured storage area. These solutions don’t require major renovations or big budgets; just a bit of planning and a few clever tools. Once everything has a proper place, you’ll spend less time searching for supplies and more time enjoying a clean, organised kitchen.
