How To Organise Under The Kitchen Sink

This guide provides a step-by-step method to declutter and organize the space under your kitchen sink. You'll learn how to empty, clean, categorize, and store items using simple tools, plus how to maintain the system long-term. Perfect for renters and homeowners alike, it focuses on practical, budget-friendly solutions.

Fast Answer

Empty everything from under the sink, then wipe down the cabinet interior with a mild cleaner and let it dry completely.
Group similar items (cleaners, sponges, trash bags) in clear bins or caddies, using shelf risers to maximize vertical space, and label each container for easy identification.

Before departure Best time to prepare

Beginner-friendly Difficulty

Plan-specific terms Watch out for

Before You Start

Gather supplies: mild cleaner, microfiber cloths, baking soda, trash bags, a bucket or bin for sorting.
Remove all items from under the sink and place them on a clean surface like a countertop or table.
Collect storage solutions: clear plastic bins, baskets, caddies with handles, shelf risers, tension rods, and labels.
Set aside a few minutes to sort items into keep, relocate, and discard piles, so you know what will stay.

Check first: Before you begin, check for leaks under the sink by turning on the water briefly and inspecting pipes. If you find moisture or drips, fix the leak first, otherwise your organizing efforts will be wasted and could lead to mold or water damage.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Empty and Sort the Under-Sink Area

Start by opening the cabinet door and taking out every single item, including those shoved to the back. Place them on a clean countertop or table. As you remove each item, look at it and decide if it belongs under the sink or if it's better stored elsewhere. For example, cleaning supplies that you rarely use, like oven cleaner, might be better in a garage or utility closet. Create three piles: keep, relocate, and recycle or trash. This process ensures you only put back what you actually need and use, preventing clutter from returning. Check expiration dates on cleaning products and toss any that are expired, as they may be less effective or even unsafe. Once sorted, you'll have a clear picture of what needs to be stored and can plan your layout accordingly.

Tip: Use a tray or large baking sheet to catch any drips from cleaning bottles while you sort them, avoiding mess on your countertop.

Clean the Cabinet Interior Thoroughly

With the cabinet empty, it's time to deep clean the space. Vacuum or sweep out any dust, crumbs, or debris that has accumulated. Then, mix a solution of warm water and a few drops of dish soap, or use a mild all-purpose cleaner. Wipe down all surfaces inside the cabinet, including the floor, sides, and the underside of the sink basin if accessible. For stubborn stains or old soap scum, sprinkle baking soda on a damp sponge and scrub gently. Pay special attention to corners and the back edge where grime tends to hide. After cleaning, rinse your cloth with plain water and wipe again to remove any soap residue. Leave the cabinet doors open to allow the area to air dry completely. This step is crucial because a clean starting point helps your new organization system look neat and prevents pests and odors.

Tip: Place a small bowl of baking soda in the cabinet overnight to absorb any lingering odors before you put items back.

Measure and Plan Your Storage Layout

Take a tape measure and note the interior dimensions of your cabinet: width, depth, and height. Also measure the height of the pipes and any obstructions like the garbage disposal unit. Use these measurements to decide what storage solutions will fit. For instance, if you have a double sink, the middle partition can be a challenge, so plan around it. Sketch a simple layout on paper: place taller items like spray bottles in the back or on one side, and use shelf risers to create two levels in the front. Consider using tension rods to hang spray bottles upside down, saving vertical space. This planning step ensures you buy the right size bins and shelves, avoiding the frustration of buying containers that don't fit. It also helps you think about visibility—you want to see everything at a glance.

Tip: Use a ruler or a piece of paper cut to the dimensions of your cabinet to visualize how shelf risers might fit.

Install Shelf Risers and Tension Rods

Now, install the storage aids you planned. A shelf riser, also known as a cabinet shelf, sits on top of the current cabinet floor, giving you an extra level. Place it in the front part of the cabinet so you can store smaller items like sponges or cleaning brushes on top, while taller bottles go behind. If you have a tension rod, install it horizontally about halfway down the cabinet. Use it to hang spray bottles by their triggers, allowing water to drain and saving counter space. Make sure the tension rod is securely wedged between the sides of the cabinet, and place it high enough so bottles don't touch the bottom. Installing these elements first creates the base structure for your organized cabinet. If you're using adhesive hooks, attach them to the inside of the cabinet doors for hanging lightweight items like brushes or gloves.

Tip: Place a small tray or mat under the spray bottles on the rod to catch any drips, protecting the cabinet floor.

Categorize Items into Labeled Containers

Gather your cleaning supplies, sponges, trash bags, and other items, and group them by category: dish soap and dishwasher detergent, surface cleaners, sponges and scrub brushes, trash bags, and gloves. Choose clear plastic bins or baskets for each category so you can easily see what's inside. For smaller items like sponges, use a caddy with a handle or a small bin that you can pull out easily. Write labels for each bin, either with a label maker or on masking tape, and place the label on the front or side of the bin. As you place items in bins, group them by frequency of use: everyday items like dish soap should be in the front, while occasional items like floor cleaner can go in the back. This categorization makes it quick to grab what you need without rummaging.

Tip: Use a caddy designed for under-sink storage with a built-in handle, so you can carry it to the sink when needed.

Arrange Containers and Maintain the System

Now, place your labeled bins back into the cabinet, following your plan. Put the most frequently used bin closest to the front door, such as the one with dish soap and sponges. Place larger bins in the back or on the lower shelf riser. Make sure everything fits comfortably without cramming. Once arranged, step back and check that no bottle caps are leaking and that bins are stable. Write a short list of what's inside and stick it to the inside of the cabinet door for quick reference. Finally, establish a habit: every time you use something, put it back in its designated spot. Once a week, do a quick tidy to catch anything that's out of place. This maintenance step ensures your under-sink area stays organized for good, saving you time and frustration.

Tip: Use a small magnetic whiteboard on the inside of the cabinet door to jot down items that need restocking, like dish soap or trash bags.

Quick Reference

Situation	Action	Why it helps
You have a double sink and the partition blocks storage space.	Measure the width of each side, and use smaller bins or caddies that fit on each side. You can also install a tension rod on one side only for spray bottles.	This maximizes the usable space in each compartment, making it easier to access items without reaching awkwardly.
Spray bottles are taking up too much vertical space.	Hang them upside down on a tension rod or use spray bottle holders that attach to the underside of the cabinet shelf.	Upside down hanging allows the nozzle to be stored compactly and prevents leaks from pooling at the bottom.
You frequently need to grab cleaning supplies quickly during cooking or cleaning.	Keep a small caddy with dish soap, a sponge, and a multi-surface cleaner on the door or directly under the sink in front, away from pipes.	Having essential items within arm's reach reduces time spent searching and minimizes the chance of leaving the cabinet door open.

Common Issues

Leaky bottle caps causing a mess.: Check all bottle lids to ensure they are tightly closed. Place a small tray or plastic liner under any bottles that might leak. You can also wipe the bottle bottom before putting it back. If a bottle is leaking frequently, transfer the product into a pump bottle or seal it with plumbing tape.
Pipes and the garbage disposal taking up too much room.: Install a shelf riser above the plumbing pipe to use the vertical space. For the area directly under the trap, use small bins that fit around the pipe. You can also hang items like trash bags on hooks inside the cabinet door, away from the pipe.
Odors from damp sponges or garbage.: Wring out sponges and let them dry before putting them in a container with holes for ventilation. Use a bin with a lid for trash bags or compost. Add a small bowl of baking soda or a charcoal odor absorber to keep the space fresh.

Advanced Tips

Install a pull-out drawer or sliding wire basket under the sink for easier access to items in the back.
Use stackable bins to double the storage without adding shelves, but ensure they are stable and don't block each other.
Add a small LED motion-sensor light under the sink to make it easier to see and find items.

Final Checklist

Empty the space and sort items into keep, relocate, and discard piles.
Clean the cabinet thoroughly and allow it to dry before placing anything back.
Measure the interior and install risers, rods, or hooks to optimize space.
Place labeled containers in a planned layout, with frequently used items at the front.

FAQ

How do I know what to store under the sink vs. elsewhere?

Under the sink is best for items you use regularly near the sink, like dish soap, sponges, and cleaning sprays. Items you use less often, like specialty cleaners or tools, can be stored in a utility closet or garage. Consider the temperature and humidity: some cleaners may degrade in heat, so avoid storing them near a hot water pipe. If you have small children, use safety locks and store hazardous chemicals in a high cabinet instead.

What is the best way to organize the space under a sink with a garbage disposal?

Start by measuring the clearance below the disposal unit, as it usually takes up significant space. Store taller bottles on the side opposite the disposal. Use a shelf riser on the other side to create an extra level. For the area directly under the disposal, use a shallow bin or a caddy that can slide in and out. You can also attach a small hook to the cabinet side to hang rubber gloves or a small brush. The key is to work around the pipes and keep the area as open as possible.

How often should I reorganize the under-sink area?

Aim to do a quick tidy every week, putting items back in their designated spots and wiping up any spills. Every three months, do a deeper declutter: remove everything, check for expired products, and reassess whether items are still in the best spot. This regular upkeep prevents the area from becoming cluttered and helps you stay aware of what you actually use.