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Organise under the kitchen sink: 6 smart storage ideas

Transform the tricky space under your sink into an organised, hardworking zone with these simple solutions that help you save time, reduce clutter and make everyday life easier.

A black kitchen worktop with VRESJÖN insert sink in stainless steel, holding colander filled with lemons and herbs.
A light grey HÅLLBAR bin with lid.

1. Maximise awkward spaces with modular under sink storage

The area under the sink is often awkwardly shaped due to pipes, making it hard to use effectively. These solutions help you make the most of every centimetre:

  • Fit storage around plumbing: Use HÅLLBAR bins and boxes designed for flexible layouts that work around pipes and odd shapes.
  • Create multiple levels: Add small shelves or turntables to store dish soap, sponges and cleaning essentials at different heights.
  • Keep only essentials: Store just what you need under the sink to prevent overcrowding and maintain easy access.
  • Label for instant organisation: Add labels to containers so you can see where everything belongs, making it quick and easy to find items and put them back.
A dark grey DAMMÄNG bin with lid.

2. Simplify waste sorting with under sink organisers

Waste bins take up valuable space and are often messy or hard to reach. An integrated system keeps everything in order while encouraging sustainable habits:

  • Separate recycling and waste: Install a HÅLLBAR waste sorting system under the sink to divide general waste from recyclables.
  • Store bottles and cans efficiently: Use DAMMÄNG containers or freestanding bins for items like bottles and cans.
  • Mount bins on doors: Fix a VARIERA waste bin on the inside of the door for small, everyday waste that is easy to reach.
  • Choose large bins for bulky waste: Large waste sorting bins with lids are perfect for handling bulkier kitchen waste such as glass, metal and paper packaging. The large flip-up lids let you access them easily even when your hands are full, and the durable plastic is easy to clean.

Tip: Plan waste sorting from the start

Think about waste sorting when you design your kitchen and place bins where waste is created, like under the sink or worktop. You can plan drawers with integrated waste bins for different types of waste, making sorting simple for everyone.

White plates in a drawer, stacked on a drawer mat.

3. Keep it clean and dry with protective solutions

Leaks, drips and cleaning products can damage cabinets and create unpleasant odours. Protect surfaces and store cleaning tools neatly:

  • Protect the cabinet base: Add a VARIERA protective mat or drawer mat to catch drips and keep the base clean.
  • Prevent spills: Store bottles upright in VARIERA containers to stop leaks before they happen.
  • Organise cleaning essentials: Keep dish soap and sponges on a turntable so they are easy to reach and stay organised.
A black VARIERA box in the kitchen.

4. Use the doors for smart under kitchen sink organisation

The inside of cabinet doors often goes unused, even though it is the easiest space to access. Turn the doors into storage for everyday essentials:

  • Hang lightweight tools: Use adhesive hooks or small containers for gloves and lightweight cleaning tools.
  • Combine with pull-out trays: Add pull-out trays for a fully accessible setup that brings everything within reach.

Tip: Install a pull-out frame for easy access

Don't have drawers? Install HÅLLBAR pull-out frame to get a clear overview and make it easier to use the whole depth of the cabinet.

A for METOD kitchen drawer ventilated/light grey HÅLLBAR waste sorting solution.

5. Improve accessibility with under sink storage ideas

Items in the back of the cabinet are difficult to reach, especially when space is tight. Pull-out trays and lighting bring everything into view:

  • Add pull-out trays: Use VARIERA or HÅLLBAR pull-out trays to easily reach items stored at the back.
  • Light up dark spaces: Install LED cabinet lighting to illuminate dark corners and make finding things effortless.
  • Group by purpose: Keep your layout simple by grouping items into zones for cleaning, waste and tools.
Cleaning products and yellow rubber gloves in a kitchen drawer.

6. Create an efficient cleaning station

Cleaning supplies are often spread across multiple areas, wasting time and space. Centralise everything in one organised spot:

  • Keep essentials together: Store dishwashing liquid and everyday cleaning products under the sink.
  • Store extras elsewhere: Keep backup supplies in another location to avoid overcrowding the space.
  • Use labelled containers: Group products in labelled containers and keep them upright for easy identification.

Tip: Use removable bags for flexible sorting

Waste sorting bags like DIMPA or laundry bags like JÄLL with an inner plastic lining offer a practical solution. Simply remove them when full and empty them at the nearest recycling station. The empty bag takes up hardly any space on the way back.

A grey-green FARMARKVAST bin with lid for organic waste.

You know you've nailed your under-sink organisation when:

  • You find everything in seconds
  • Nothing gets lost at the back
  • Waste sorting happens without thinking
  • The cabinet stays clean and dry
  • Cleaning is quick and easy
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