The Smart And Simple Mug Storage Solution That's Perfect For Small Kitchens

We may receive a commission on purchases made from links.

Having a small kitchen encourages some creative solutions for storing your utensils and precious collectibles. Ensuring items are neatly stored, easy to access, and not overcrowded is a delicate balancing act that many homeowners juggle. Thankfully, there are several clever storage DIYs that make the most of the space in your kitchen. Some are even affordable and take minutes to whip up. One way to maximize space in a small kitchen is to take advantage of vertical space. When the floor plan is tight, cupboards are shallow, and countertop space can't be sacrificed, blank wall space is a lifesaver. For those who have a collection of favorite mugs, what better way to display them than on a vertical mug storage rack?

A vertical mug rack helps curb dreaded overpacked cabinets and cluttered countertops. It's also a visually appealing feature in a small kitchen design. Using your coffee mugs as decor tackles two conundrums: lack of storage and poor design. Further, it promotes the idea of a lived-in and well-curated space. However, it is important to remember some things can make your small kitchen look even more crowded. Limit the amount of vertical clutter wherever you can. This means using your vertical mug racks in moderation or spacing them out around the room.

While mug trees are a classic storage product, they take up valuable countertop space. That's why a vertical storage solution is preferential. Consider investing in a slim, wall-mounted vertical mug rack with hooks. Something like this MyGift Wall-Mounted Wooden Mug Rack won't take up much space. It can be installed either side of a cabinet, in the slim areas between cabinetry and doorways or archways, or anywhere you have a sliver of free wall space. Stacking two or more of these wall-mounted racks one atop the other adds even more vertical storage and seamlessly integrates with your existing cabinetry.

Another alternative is to use an extendable hook rack, like this Dseap Accordion Wooden Wall Hanger. An accordion-style wall rack is more customizable since you can adjust the length by compressing or stretching it. Hang the rack vertically or horizontally on the wall, depending on your needs. If you need a budget-friendly or more personalized approach, simply screw hooks into the side of cabinets or shelving. This adds hanging space for a plethora of coffee mugs. Just be sure to measure the cabinet and space your hooks according to the size of your mugs.

This might be one of the best ways to utilize vertical space in small kitchens, but it's not without downsides. Mugs displayed on vertical storage out in the open tend to collect dust. Always rinse your mugs prior to use. Additionally, this may not be an ideal solution for households with pets or small children prone to knocking fragile items off hooks. Carefully consider rack placement: Don't hang your delicate dishware in a high-traffic part of the kitchen. The mugs could get bumped and damaged, and you can overcrowd your walls, making it difficult to move around. Ensure your vertical mug racks are installed in a way that maximizes unused space but doesn't hinder the flow of cooking.

It's also important to note that this may not be the most renter-friendly option. Many wall-mounted racks are attached to the wall using screws or nails for stability. It is possible to use something temporary like adhesive hooks to attach these mug holders to a wall. But it is not risk-free. Check the weight limits of the hooks carefully. The potential for mugs to collectively weigh more than the hooks can handle means the entire display could fall off the wall. Temperature and humidity fluctuations can also cause the adhesive on the hooks to fail.