Cutting boards are the kind of flat kitchen thing that turns into a messy pile fast, especially when you’re working with a small kitchen.
Vertical Dividers in a Lower Cabinet
In my last apartment, I added vertical dividers to a lower cabinet so my cutting boards could stand up like files instead of becoming a slippery stack. I love how it keeps everything visible, and I can pull out the exact board I want with one hand.
Try these:
- Adjustable Cabinet Divider Rack: Organize your baking sheets and cutting boards easily with these adjustable racks to keep items upright and accessible.
- Pull-Out Cabinet Organizer: Upgrade your lower cabinets by installing this sliding organizer to smoothly access all your stored cutting boards.
- Wooden Cutting Board Set: Refresh your kitchen collection with sturdy, vertical-friendly wooden boards that look beautiful stored in open cabinetry.
Narrow Pull-Out Cabinet File
I’m obsessed with a skinny pull-out because it turns a tight cabinet area into a neat little library for cutting boards and sheet pans. I used this setup for a client with a galley kitchen, and it instantly stopped the daily “board avalanche” problem.
Consider these options:
- Wooden Base Cabinet Pull-Out Organizer: Install this sliding drawer to transform narrow cabinets into accessible storage for cutting boards and baking sheets.
- Adjustable Drawer Dividers: Create custom slots inside your deep drawers to keep boards upright and separated without shifting around.
- Vertical Bakeware Wire Rack Insert: Secure this rack inside your new pull-out to provide sturdy vertical support for heavier chopping blocks.
Back-of-Door Mounted Rack
I’ve mounted a slim rack on the cabinet door before, and it’s one of my favorite “no extra footprint” ways to store cutting boards. Just make sure the door still closes smoothly—I learned that lesson after hearing a very annoying nightly thud.
Products that could assist:
- Over-the-Cabinet Kitchen Organizer: Maximize vertical space effortlessly by hanging this rack over your cabinet door to keep boards accessible and tidy.
- Rectangular Wood Cutting Board with Handle: Upgrade your prep area with a sturdy wooden board featuring a handle for easy hanging and stylish serving.
- Waffle Weave Kitchen Towel Set: Complete the look and handle spills quickly with absorbent waffle-textured towels that dry fast and hang neatly nearby.
Under-Shelf Basket for One More Slot
I’ve used an under-shelf basket to create a bonus “file” space, and it’s perfect for thinner cutting boards you use all the time. In my tiny kitchen, that extra layer felt like finding a secret compartment.
Check if these fit your needs:
- Under-Shelf Storage Wire Basket: Instantly add extra storage space by sliding this basket onto your existing shelves to keep cutting boards handy.
- Countertop Wire Storage Organizer: Organize your boards upright on the counter with a sturdy wire bin, similar to the one shown here.
- Cabinet Door Cutting Board Holder: Maximize your vertical space by mounting this organizer over a cabinet door to keep your counters clear.
Handled Basket or Crate Corral
I corral my everyday cutting boards in a handled basket when my cabinets are packed, and it instantly makes the counter look intentional instead of chaotic. The best part is I can carry the whole thing out of the way when I need extra workspace.
You might like:
- Oval Woven Seagrass Basket with Handles: Corral your cutting boards stylishly with a natural woven basket that adds texture and warmth to your countertop.
- Set of Wooden Cutting Boards with Handles: Refresh your kitchen essentials with sturdy wooden boards that look beautiful displayed upright in an open basket.
- Wooden Salad Server or Mixing Utensil: Complete the natural vignette by placing a simple wooden server alongside your basket for a cohesive look.
Layered Lean Against the Backsplash
I’ve leaned and layered my prettiest wooden cutting boards against the backsplash, and it doubles as warm decor that still feels practical. This is my favorite trick for making a basic rental kitchen look styled in about two seconds.
A few choices to try:
- Oval Walnut Cutting Board with Handle: Add warmth to your countertop with a large oval board that serves as both functional prep space and decor.
- Paddle-Shaped Wooden Serving Board: Layer this lighter wood paddle board in front of darker ones to create contrast and accessible kitchen styling.
- Non-Slip Cutting Board Mat: Secure your leaning display discreetly with a small mat to prevent boards from sliding down on slick counters.
Wall Bar With Hooks by the Prep Zone
I’ve hung cutting boards from a slim wall bar with hooks, and it’s perfect when you want that “grab-and-go” setup near the sink. It also kept my boards from sitting damp in a pile, which used to make me crazy.
A few suggestions:
- Industrial Style Wall Rail: Instantly create versatile storage near your sink with a sturdy black rail that matches modern farmhouse decor.
- Wooden Paddle Serving Board: Display and dry your preparation surfaces in style with a beautiful acacia wood board featuring a handle.
- Beige Linen Kitchen Towel: Complete the look and keep hands dry with absorbent, textured linen towels that hang perfectly from hooks.
Recessed Wall Niche for Cutting Boards
For a real wow moment, I’ve helped a client create a shallow recessed niche so cutting boards slide in flush with the wall like built-ins. It looks custom and clean, and it’s an amazing way to use space you didn’t even realize you had.
A few relevant products:
- Large Wood Cutting Board with Handle: Choose a statement board with warm wood tones to create a stunning focal point within your recessed niche.
- Textured Ceramic Canister: Add visual interest to your niche styling by pairing your board with a rustic, textured ceramic storage jar.
- Black Thin Gallery Frame: Complete the vignette on upper niche shelves using sleek black frames to contrast beautifully against light plaster walls.
