The cupboard under the sink is one of the trickiest spaces in the home to organise, which is why smart under-sink storage solutions are essential. Between pipes, awkward dimensions, and the tendency to shove things in and close the door, it’s no surprise this area often becomes the messiest spot in the house.
Whether it’s in the kitchen, where you store cleaning products, sponges, and bin bags, or in the bathroom, where toiletries and hair tools pile up, effective under-sink storage can turn a chaotic cupboard into a highly organised space. Using baskets, tiered shelves, and adjustable dividers, you can maximise every inch while keeping items easy to reach and clearly visible.
The key to successful under-sink storage is combining functionality with accessibility. Group like items together, label containers, and make use of vertical space wherever possible. With these strategies, even the trickiest nooks around pipes and awkward corners can become tidy, efficient zones that save time and reduce stress.
Why Under-Sink Storage Matters
It might seem small, but the way you organise your under-sink space has a big impact on daily life:
- Saves time: No more digging around for cleaning sprays or the right shampoo.
- Reduces waste: You’ll see what you already have, so you’re not buying duplicates.
- Improves safety: Proper storage keeps cleaning products out of kids’ reach and prevents spills.
- Creates calm: Even hidden spaces affect how you feel about your home—tidiness reduces stress.
Kitchen Under-Sink Storage Ideas
The kitchen sink cupboard is one of the busiest, most-used spaces in the house. With the right systems, it can be just as functional as any other storage zone.
1. Install a Pull-Out Drawer System
Pull-out drawers are a game-changer. They allow you to make use of the full depth of your cupboard without having to reach into the dark corners. Store dishwashing tablets, sprays, cloths, and gloves in easy-to-reach trays.
Real-life example: One of our clients in Melbourne had a deep under-sink cabinet that constantly became a dumping ground. By adding two pull-out drawers, she could finally access everything without bending or straining.
2. Add a Tension Rod for Spray Bottles
Spray bottles take up a lot of room if stored on the base of the cupboard. A simple tension rod across the cabinet lets you hang bottles by their triggers. This frees up floor space for sponges, bin liners, and brushes.
3. Use Stackable Bins or Containers
Grouping items into bins prevents them from toppling over or rolling to the back. Label bins by category, such as dishwashing, all-purpose cleaners, and recycling bags. Stackable bins also let you take advantage of vertical space.
4. Include a Lazy Susan (Turntable)
For items you use daily—like dishwashing liquid, hand soap refills, or multipurpose cleaners—a lazy Susan works wonders. Just spin to grab what you need.
5. Protect Against Leaks with Plastic Bins
Leaks under the sink are common. Store your items in waterproof trays or bins to catch any spills and protect your shelves.
Bathroom Under-Sink Storage Ideas
The bathroom vanity can quickly become a clutter hotspot, especially with toiletries, hair tools, and cleaning supplies competing for space. Here’s how to regain control:
1. Install Two-Tier Pull-Out Drawers
Bathroom cupboards are often shallow but tall. A two-tier pull-out drawer creates extra levels for storage. Use the top tier for toothpaste and skincare, and the bottom for bulkier items like shampoo and cleaning products.
2. Use Drawer Organisers and Caddies
Portable caddies are perfect for grouping everyday items. For example, keep all your skincare in one basket and your hair tools in another. Pull out the whole caddy when needed, then slide it back in.
3. Try Over-the-Door Storage
The inside of cupboard doors is often wasted space. Add hooks, racks, or slim organisers to hold hairdryers, brushes, or extra toiletries.
4. Store Toiletries in Baskets by Category
Sort into categories like makeup, skincare, haircare, and extras. That way, you don’t have to rummage through a pile of mixed products to find what you need.
5. Add a Lazy Susan for Tall Bottles
Tall items like hairspray, body lotion, or mouthwash are easier to manage when placed on a turntable. This prevents bottles from being hidden behind others.
Smart Tips for Both Kitchen and Bathroom
When it comes to under-sink organisation, the same principles apply whether you’re dealing with dishwashing liquid or hair products. Here’s how to make the most of this often-overlooked space:
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Declutter First
The very first step in under-sink organisation is always decluttering. Don’t waste valuable storage space on expired cleaning sprays, old makeup, or hair products you’ll never use again. For example, many households have multiple half-empty bottles of the same cleaner or three moisturisers that are long past their prime. Clear them out before you start organising. Think of it this way: there’s no point buying bins or dividers for items you don’t actually need.
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Measure Your Space
Every under-sink cupboard is different, thanks to pipes, U-bends, and water filters that eat into storage space. Before purchasing organisers, measure your width, height, and depth so you don’t end up with bins or drawers that won’t fit. If your plumbing is positioned awkwardly, look for modular organisers that can be reconfigured around those obstacles.
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Think Vertical
Most under-sink cupboards have plenty of height but little depth. This means vertical storage is your best friend. Adding stackable drawers, shelf risers, or even small tiered racks helps you double your storage capacity. In the bathroom, this might mean stacking baskets for skincare and haircare. In the kitchen, you could use a shelf riser to separate dishwashing items from rubbish bags.
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Label Everything
Labelling might feel unnecessary for hidden spaces, but it actually makes a huge difference. Clear, simple labels remind everyone in the household where things belong, which means items are more likely to get put back correctly. Categories like cleaning sprays, bin bags, or skincare make your system easy to maintain.
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Line the Cupboard
Under-sink leaks happen more often than you’d expect, and even small drips can ruin cabinetry. Use a waterproof mat, shelf liner, or contact paper at the base of your cupboard. This not only protects against water damage but also makes cleaning quicker and easier. Spills and leaks can be wiped up without soaking into the timber or laminate.
Budget-Friendly Under-Sink Storage Hacks
You don’t need to spend a fortune to create a functional under-sink system. Some of the most effective solutions are DIY or repurposed household items.
- Repurpose shoe boxes or ice-cream tubs: These make excellent budget organisers for grouping items like sponges, dishwasher tablets, or spare toiletries. Clear plastic tubs are especially handy, since you can see what’s inside at a glance.
- Use a dish rack as a divider: A standing dish rack is perfect for keeping chopping boards, baking trays, or cleaning cloths upright and separated. It prevents piles from toppling over and makes everything easier to grab.
- Turn a magazine holder into storage: A simple magazine file can be repurposed to hold rolls of foil, baking paper, or bin bags vertically, saving space and keeping them neat.
- Stick on some Command hooks: The back of your cupboard door is a hidden gem of storage potential. Add hooks to hang dishwashing gloves, scrubbing pads, small brushes, or even a dustpan and brush set.
These low-cost hacks prove that with a little creativity, you can bring order to your under-sink chaos without investing in expensive systems.
When to Invest in Premium Solutions
While budget hacks work brilliantly, sometimes it’s worth spending a little more for storage that’s functional, durable, and stylish. Here’s when to consider upgrading:
- Custom Pull-Out Drawers: These are ideal if you have a deep cupboard where items often get lost at the back. Pull-out drawers bring everything forward in seconds, saving you from kneeling on the floor and rummaging.
- Modular Organisers: Designed specifically to work around pipes and plumbing, modular organisers are flexible and can be adjusted to fit your unique space. They’re great for maximising storage in tricky under-sink cupboards.
- Acrylic Bins: If you love the look of clear, streamlined organisation, acrylic bins add a polished, designer feel. They’re sturdy, easy to clean, and make it simple to see when you’re running low on products.
- Professional Home Organisation Services: For the ultimate transformation, bring in a professional organiser. They’ll design a tailored system that works for your lifestyle, ensuring your under-sink storage is not just tidy, but sustainable long term.
Investing in premium solutions is particularly worthwhile if you’re looking to elevate your home’s functionality while also achieving that Pinterest-worthy organised look.
Final Thoughts: Turn Cluttered Cupboards into Functional Spaces
Your under-sink cupboards may be small, but they play an important role in keeping your home running smoothly. With the right systems—whether that’s simple bins, smart drawer inserts, or clever hacks—you can transform these messy, awkward spots into functional, organised spaces.
The most important step? Declutter before you organise. By clearing out half-empty bottles, expired products, and items you never use, you’ll instantly create more space and set the stage for a smarter storage system.
Remember, a tidy home isn’t about perfection. It’s about creating practical systems that make everyday life easier and less stressful. Even the hidden corners—like under the sink—contribute to the overall calm and efficiency of your space.
✨ Want to skip the overwhelm and get a system designed for your lifestyle? Book your free consultation with Ducks in a Row Home Organisation and let us help you turn your under-sink cupboards (and your entire home) into spaces that work beautifully for you.
