There’s probably been a time or two when you’ve opened your kitchen cabinet door just to find an avalanche of plastic storage containers. Or maybe there was a time when you purchased a new countertop appliance only to discover you have no place to store it when not in use. It’s possible to create space for your Tupperware, toaster, blender, or mixer by making the most of the unused space in your kitchen. Not sure how? Here are a few tips on how to maximize storage space in your kitchen.

• Install tall cabinets.

Taller cabinets, those that extend all the way to the ceiling even, are not only on-trend, they’re also one of the best ways to maximize storage space in your kitchen. Place items you don’t use often – such as small appliances, big pots, and casserole dishes – on the upper shelves.

• Double up drawers.

Deep drawers can become black holes for kitchen supplies. How many times have you dug through a stuffed deep drawer in search of a pizza cutter, potato masher, or can opener? Make the most of this space by installing two single pull-out drawers. This small change is all you need to keep those deep drawers in check.

• Add a kitchen island.

If your kitchen doesn’t have an island and if your space allows for it, consider installing additional cabinetry near the working area of your kitchen.  Not only will you gain additional storage, you’ll also add surface work space.

 • Utilize every space.

If you have an L-shaped kitchen, you have a corner cabinet that’s either stuffed with unused junk or sitting entirely empty. Utilize that space by adding a pullout shelf. This will allow you to access items in the back and effectively utilize what would otherwise be a dead corner.

• Transform unused features into cabinet space.

Do you have a door in your kitchen that you never use? How about a desk that’s collecting dust? Consider turning unused spaces into storage space by installing cabinets or shelving in the area.

• Use existing areas wisely.

There are several organization products and accessories that you can install in your kitchen that will allow you to hang cleaning supplies, pots and pans, plastic bags, and more. Make the most of wall space, the inside of cabinet doors, and other unused areas. Add a pantry to a tall narrow area that’s underutilized.

With a little ingenuity, it’s possible to turn any kitchen into a functional space with plenty of room for all of your kitchen supplies.