Don Pedro Brooklyn is reader-supported. When you buy through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. Learn More

How to Organize a Small Kitchen Without a Pantry?

By: Shanze Ijaz

The world has become hands-free and fast-paced…unlike bulky pantries that are difficult to maintain. Unfortunately, managing clutter becomes virtually impossible without a spacious pantry cabinet by your side.

But what if there was another way to combat the clutter problem and skip using a pantry altogether? Luckily, there is!

Below is a list of brilliant, innovative no pantry solutions for those wondering how to organize a small kitchen without a pantry:

Install Floating Wood Shelves 

These stunning floating shelves have an ergonomic, practical design complete with sturdy metal fixtures that can handle heavy objects with ease. But that’s not all – thanks to their gorgeous polished oak finish, these shelves can instantly uplift your kitchen’s aesthetic in a flash!

Mount them upon a bare wall and watch as your kitchen space transforms into a stunning modern space. On that note, these shelves are perfect for minimalist kitchens inspired by organic design. 

Not only do they maintain a solid wood construct, but they also lack any visible, intruding fixtures or shelf borders.

Opt for a Linen Cabinet 

Don’t want to opt for a formal pantry but are still in love with closeted spaces?

If so, don’t worry – we have just the thing for you!

Linen cabinets are an excellent, space-conscious alternative to regular closet-style pantries. You can comfortably fit enough food supplies for a month’s worth of meals (for one person).

This cabinet is ideal for those who live alone or would appreciate some extra storage space within their kitchen. It is particularly useful for tiny kitchens that cannot accommodate massive pantries.

Store Your Food in Special Canisters 

If your kitchen is pre-equipped with cabinets and shelves, consider investing in new storage bins. The canisters pictured here are perfect for storing open pasta, lentils, spices, and related products. They are fully air-tight and will ensure your pantry items maintain their original freshness.

Thanks to their sleek yet spacious design, you can comfortably store these containers upon open shelves, within cabinets, and even on your island counter. Don’t hesitate to stack them on top of one another to save space!

Repurpose a Bar Cabinet 

This bar cabinet is the absolute epitome of mid-century art deco design. It sports a set of complementary shapes drenched in light pastels and bold primary colors. Plus, this cabinet’s gold accents and lustrous base makes it perfect for decorative kitchen spaces.

Though bar cabinets are an unconventional choice, there’s no formal rule against employing them as a makeshift pantry unit. Thanks to their dry, cool interior, these cabinets are an excellent option for storing everyday cooking essentials.

Mix Things Up with a Mid Century Sideboard 

Sideboards are a classic way to add a classic, charming appeal to any room, including the kitchen. This is because sideboards have a history of being employed within well-to-do households and are hence reminiscent of America’s golden age.

So, if you’d like to add some practical pizzaz to your kitchen space, consider placing an eye-catching sideboard within it. The one pictured above is carved from pure wood and maintains a delicate appearance despite being robust and reliable on the inside.

Select a Stylish Storage Cart 

If sideboards aren’t your thing, why not opt for a storage cart instead?

Storage carts take up less space than sideboards do. Plus, you can quickly move them around, thanks to their bottom wheels. Additionally, most carts come with multiple storage shelves and cabinets for you to store your cooking essentials within.

The best thing about these carts is that their upper counter space doesn’t go to waste. Feel free to deck your new cart with a surface-top microwave, fruit bowl, or coffee machine.

Mount a Two-In-One Shelf and Basket Set 

Is it a basket? Is it a shelf?

Lucky for you, it’s both!

Thanks to its compact, ergonomic design, this innovative shelf and basket combination is ideal for small kitchens. The basket section is perfect for storing packets, while the top shelf works best for jars and bottles.

The set pictured above doesn’t require much effort to assemble or mount. With the right tools by your side, you can easily have it up and working within a few minutes. Plus, these shelves are easy to clean and maintain, making them excellent options for fast-paced homeowners who are always on the go.

Final Thoughts

Hopefully, these pantry alternatives will have granted you insight into new ways to accommodate your weekly groceries. As you can see, there are plenty of excellent options to choose from, including floating shelves and rolling carts.

Be sure to consider your kitchen’s aesthetic before settling for a new pantry alternative. For example, don’t make the mistake of placing an art deco storage unit within a farmhouse-style space. Doing so would result in a funny, odd-looking kitchen.