When I first settled into my cozy little apartment, figuring out how to store my kitchen essentials was a real puzzle—especially when it came to my cutting boards. I had a few: a plastic one for meat, a wooden one for bread, and a flexible mat for fruits. But with limited cabinet space and hardly any counter area, I had to think outside the box. After experimenting with several storage solutions, I discovered a few that really transformed the way my tiny kitchen worked.
In this article, I’m excited to share some practical tips for storing cutting boards in small kitchens—ideas that I’ve personally tried in my own space. Whether you have just one cutting board or a whole collection, these suggestions will help you keep them organized, easy to reach, and neatly tucked away. Plus, I’ve included a link to a related article about storing cleaning supplies and a fantastic external resource to help you maintain an eco-friendly and organized kitchen.
1. Use the Inside of Cabinet Doors
This was one of the first hacks I tried, and it worked like a charm! I stuck a slim adhesive rack on the inside of one of my lower cabinet doors, and just like that, I had a sneaky little spot to tuck my cutting boards away. What I really appreciate about this method is that it doesn’t hog any shelf or counter space. My cabinet still operates as usual, and I can grab the cutting board without having to dig through a mess.
Initially, I went for a metal over-the-door rack, but it rattled every time I opened or closed the cabinet. So, I switched to a mounted bamboo rack with screws and adhesive—no more rattling, and it looks fantastic too! If you’re renting and worried about damaging your cabinets, I’d suggest going for strong adhesive options. They’ve held up surprisingly well for me, even with regular use.
This trick is also great for other flat kitchen tools like baking sheets or pot lids. If you’re working with a small kitchen, don’t underestimate the power of vertical and hidden spaces—they can really change the game.
2. Store Them Vertically in a Drawer
Another method I started using—after giving my drawers a good overhaul—was to store my cutting boards vertically. I had this deep drawer near the stove that was a catch-all for random utensils, but after clearing it out and adding some adjustable dividers, I could neatly slot my cutting boards inside. The trick is to stand them upright and use tension rods or drawer dividers to keep them from toppling over.
Not only does this make them super easy to grab, but it also keeps the boards away from moisture and heat, which is especially crucial for wooden ones. Plus, storing them this way helps prevent warping that can happen when boards are laid flat while still damp.
I always make sure my boards are completely dry before sliding them back in. And if you’re using this method, a quick wipe before storing is a good idea—just to be on the safe side. A well-organized drawer can feel like a luxury in a tiny kitchen, and this method really helps keep things tidy and functional!
3. Hang Cutting Boards on Hooks or Rails
I stumbled upon this clever idea while browsing a Scandinavian kitchen design blog a while back. It’s a stylish and practical way to keep your cutting boards handy—just hang them up! I put up a small wall-mounted rail with hooks right above my kitchen counter. It not only adds a chic touch, especially with wooden boards, but it also clears up valuable cabinet space.
Plus, hanging the boards allows them to air-dry naturally, which I never knew I needed. Before this, I’d lay them flat on the counter to dry, which took up space and made cleanup a hassle. Now, after washing, I just give them a quick towel dry and hang them on the rail. No more waiting around for them to dry!
For those renting, Command hooks or suction-cup rails are a great option since they won’t leave any holes. I’ve also seen folks use pegboards or magnetic hooks on metal surfaces to hang their boards. It’s straightforward, easy to see, and works wonders in smaller kitchens.
4. Use a Slim Storage Rack Beside the Fridge or Cabinet
I was genuinely surprised to discover how much wasted space was lurking between my fridge and the wall. That little gap turned out to be the perfect spot for a slim rolling rack. I picked up a vertical kitchen organizer designed for baking sheets and trays and slid it right into that narrow space. It holds all my cutting boards, and I even managed to fit in my cooling rack and rolling pin.
The best part? It’s completely out of sight unless you pull it out. It’s like a hidden storage gem I never knew I needed! If you have even a few inches of space next to your appliances, this is a fantastic way to make the most of it. Some of these racks even come with wheels, making it super easy to slide in and out.
One tip I’d give is to go for a metal or plastic rack that won’t warp from heat or humidity. I learned that the hard way with a wooden one that didn’t last long. This type of side storage keeps the boards upright and spaced out, ensuring good airflow and preventing any mold buildup.
6. Repurpose Magazine Holders for Upright Storage
I’m a big fan of upcycling, and one of the cleverest and budget-friendly hacks I’ve tried is using an old metal magazine holder to store my cutting boards. I set it up on the countertop near the backsplash, and to my surprise, it worked like a charm! It kept the boards standing tall and apart, which is super important to prevent that musty smell that happens when they’re all stacked together.
If you’re worried about how it looks, you can always give the holder a fresh coat of spray paint or line it with some shelf paper to fit your kitchen’s vibe. I’ve also seen folks attach them to the insides of cabinet doors (like I mentioned before), which is a great way to save counter space. I opted to use mine on an open shelf, and it blended perfectly with my minimalist decor.
Magazine holders are just the right size for most medium and small boards, and if you can snag a sturdy wire one, it’ll serve you well for years. It’s a fantastic example of transforming a non-kitchen item into something super practical—especially when you’re tight on both space and budget.
7. Avoid Common Mistakes in Small Kitchens
Through a bit of trial and error, I’ve figured out what not to do when it comes to storing cutting boards in small spaces. First off, steer clear of stacking wet boards together—they trap moisture, which can lead to bacteria and mold. I learned that the hard way, and let me tell you, the smell that came from it was just awful. Always make sure your boards are dry before putting them away, no matter where they’re going.
Secondly, don’t just lean them against the wall on your countertop unless you’re planning to use them often. They have a tendency to slide or topple over, and that can get really annoying. If you do keep them out, invest in a sturdy stand or vertical holder.
Lastly, don’t cram your storage full. I once stuffed all my boards into a single drawer without any dividers, and pulling one out meant dragging them all out. A little bit of planning—like using a rack, divider, or hook—can make a world of difference.
Final Thoughts: Smart Storage Changes Everything
When it comes to small kitchens, creativity is key. Finding clever ways to store cutting boards can be one of those little victories that makes cooking a breeze. By utilizing wall space, vertical drawers, door interiors, and even repurposed items, I’ve managed to keep my kitchen functional without compromising on style or space.
It’s not just about where you put your boards—it’s about creating a kitchen that’s easy to navigate and enjoyable to work in. If clutter or frustration is getting you down, try implementing one of these strategies. You might be amazed at how much a bit of organization can transform your space.
For more organizing tips like these, take a look at my article on Where to Store Cleaning Supplies in Small Apartments – I share all the clever spots I use to keep my kitchen and bathroom tidy.
And if you’re interested in exploring sustainable and practical kitchen organization further, I highly recommend checking out this post by The Spruce: 7 Creative Storage Ideas for Small Kitchens. It’s packed with helpful visuals and DIY tips that I’ve personally tried and loved.
