Discover 15 innovative under sink storage ideas that maximize space and banish clutter. Transform that chaotic cabinet into an organized oasis with these practical solutions for kitchens and bathrooms.

We've all been there—reaching blindly into the dark abyss beneath our sinks, knocking over cleaning supplies like dominoes while hunting for that specific scrub brush we know exists somewhere in the jumble. That awkward under-sink space, with its inconvenient pipes and irregular dimensions, seems designed specifically to frustrate our organizational efforts. But what if I told you this problem area could become your storage superpower? I've spent years perfecting the art of taming the under-sink wilderness, testing countless solutions until finding the ones that actually deliver on their promises. From expandable shelving that navigates around plumbing to magnetic organizers that reclaim unused surfaces, these 15 ideas transform chaos into calm. Whether you're dealing with a cramped bathroom vanity or a kitchen cabinet that swallows items whole, these tested solutions will revolutionize how you use this previously problematic space. Ready to transform that cabinet from frustration station to functional storage? Let's dive into solutions that don't just look good in perfectly staged photos but actually work in real homes with real plumbing configurations.

1. Two-Tier Sliding Drawers with Customizable Heights

Transform that black hole under your sink into accessible territory with sliding drawers that glide out to reveal everything hiding in the back corners. The game-changer here? Height-adjustable tiers that accommodate your specific under-sink plumbing configuration. Look for systems with removable shelf sections that let you create custom cutouts around pipes. I installed these in my kitchen last year, and the difference is night and day—no more archeological expeditions for dish soap! The smooth-gliding mechanism brings everything forward into the light, while the two tiers effectively double your storage footprint. Suddenly that awkward cabinet becomes your most efficient space, with cleaning supplies, sponges, and backup items organized like a miniature well-planned department store. Who knew such order could exist beneath the humble sink?

2. U-Shaped Expandable Shelf Systems

Meet the storage solution specifically engineered for the under-sink plumbing challenge. These clever expandable shelves feature a U-shaped design that wraps around pipes while maximizing every available inch of cabinet space. The expandable nature means you can adjust the width to fit cabinets from 15 to 25 inches—perfect for renters who move between different kitchen configurations. I particularly love how these systems include multiple shelf heights, creating distinct zones for tall spray bottles, medium-sized cleaning supplies, and smaller items like sponges or scrub brushes. The mesh or plastic shelving allows small drips to pass through rather than pooling, a thoughtful feature for an area prone to occasional minor leaks. It's like having custom cabinetry without the permanent installation or hefty price tag.

3. Over-the-Door Cabinet Organizers

The unsung hero of under-sink organization might be hiding in plain sight—your cabinet door! Over-the-door organizers instantly transform this wasted vertical space into prime storage real estate. These slim-profile organizers hang over standard cabinet doors and provide tiered pockets or shelves perfect for smaller items that typically get lost in the main cabinet shuffle. I use mine to store dishwasher pods, sponges, scrub brushes, and hand towels—keeping them easily accessible while freeing up the cabinet interior for larger items. The best versions feature adjustable hooks that work with various door thicknesses and include soft padding to prevent scratches on cabinet finishes. Like discovering an extra room in your house you never knew existed, door organizers make you wonder how you ever lived without them.

4. Pull-Out Cleaning Supply Caddies

Why rummage through a jumbled cabinet when you could simply slide out an organized cleaning command center? Pull-out caddies create a portable cleaning station that neatly corrals spray bottles, scrub brushes, and cleaning cloths in one accessible unit. The best designs feature a comfortable handle and compartmentalized sections that keep products upright and prevent the domino effect of toppling bottles. I keep mine stocked with daily cleaning essentials, making quick touch-ups infinitely more convenient—just pull out, clean, and return! Some versions even include removable inner containers that you can lift out and carry around the house during bigger cleaning sessions. Think of it as your cleaning supply butler, always ready to present exactly what you need without the chaos of digging through cluttered cabinets.

5. Tension Rods for Hanging Spray Bottles

Sometimes the simplest solutions deliver the most impressive results. Enter the humble tension rod—an under-sink organizational superhero in disguise. Installing a tension rod horizontally across your cabinet creates an instant hanging system for spray bottles, leveraging the otherwise unused upper area of the cabinet. The trigger handles hook perfectly over the rod, keeping bottles suspended with their nozzles easily accessible. This genius hack not only frees up valuable floor space for stackable items but also keeps your cleaning products visible and within easy reach. I've installed two rods at different heights in my kitchen cabinet—one for taller bottles and one for smaller ones—creating an efficient two-tier hanging system. For less than $10, this solution transforms how you access your most frequently used cleaning supplies.

6. Stackable Transparent Storage Bins

Bring the order of a professional pantry to the chaos under your sink with stackable transparent bins that corral similar items into visible, accessible groupings. The transparency factor eliminates the "out of sight, out of mind" syndrome that often leads to duplicate purchases and forgotten supplies. I organize mine by purpose—dish cleaning supplies in one, surface cleaners in another, and specialty products in a third. The stackable design maximizes vertical space while maintaining accessibility, and the straight sides ensure no wasted space between containers. Look for bins with easy-grip handles and slightly tapered fronts that allow for pulling out lower bins without unstacking everything. Like bringing library organization to your cleaning supplies, these bins transform random bottles into logical, retrievable systems where everything has its rightful place.

7. Wall-Mounted Plumbing Pipe Covers with Built-in Storage

Transform the visual eyesore of exposed plumbing into a functional storage opportunity with specially designed pipe covers that feature built-in storage components. These clever solutions wrap around drainage pipes, creating a clean aesthetic while incorporating shelves or hooks on either side. I installed one in my bathroom last year, and the transformation was remarkable—converting previously unusable space into storage for extra toilet paper, feminine products, and hair styling tools. The best designs feature hinged sides for easy installation around existing plumbing and adjustable shelf heights to accommodate various items. Rather than fighting against your plumbing configuration, these covers embrace it as part of the design. It's like discovering that the obstacle in your path was actually a stepping stone all along.

8. Magnetic Organization Systems

Harness the power of magnetism to create storage where none existed before. Magnetic organizers attach to the metal sink basin underneath your countertop, instantly creating accessible storage in previously unused space. These systems typically include a magnetic strip that adheres to the underside of your metal sink, plus various attachable components like hooks, small shelves, or caddies. I use mine to hang lightweight tools like rubber gloves, brushes, and even spare sponges—keeping them visible but off the cabinet floor. The beauty of this system lies in its adaptability; you can reconfigure the components as your needs change or remove them completely without leaving damage. Like discovering an extra dimension in your cabinet, magnetic systems utilize space you probably didn't even realize was available.

9. Slide-Out Trash and Recycling Centers

Reclaim valuable kitchen floor space by relocating your waste management system to the under-sink area with specialized slide-out units designed to fit around plumbing. These systems feature smooth-gliding tracks that bring your bins fully forward for easy access, then tuck them completely out of sight when not in use. The best designs include multiple bins for separating recycling, compost, and landfill waste, with removable bins that lift out for easy emptying. I switched to this system last year and gained back precious floor space while making waste sorting more convenient. Look for models with soft-close mechanisms that prevent slamming and sealed lids that contain odors. Like having a secret waste management facility hidden in plain sight, these units deliver both function and cleaner kitchen aesthetics.

10. Door-Mounted Wire Baskets

Transform your cabinet doors into organizational powerhouses with mounting wire baskets that create customizable storage zones. Unlike over-the-door options, these baskets attach directly to the door with screws for a more permanent, sturdy solution that won't shift when opening and closing. I arrange mine with graduated sizes—larger baskets at the bottom for bulkier items and smaller ones at the top for lightweight essentials. The wire construction allows for visibility while preventing the collection of dust or moisture, a perfect combination for under-sink areas. Some systems include adjustable heights or removable dividers for even more customization. These door-mounted solutions effectively double your storage capacity by utilizing space that typically goes wasted. It's like finding an extra cabinet you never knew existed!

11. Lazy Susan Turntables for Corner Access

Banish the frustration of items disappearing into the unreachable corners of your under-sink cabinet with rotating turntables that bring order to chaos. These circular organizers transform problematic corner spaces into accessible storage with a simple spin. I prefer two-tiered versions that maximize vertical storage while maintaining a stable rotating mechanism. The best designs feature non-slip surfaces and raised edges that prevent items from tumbling during rotation. Create themed turntables—one for dishwashing supplies, another for specialty cleaners—to further streamline your organization system. Position these toward the back of your cabinet where items typically become forgotten, and suddenly nothing is out of reach. Like having your own personal assistant who hands you exactly what you need when you need it, turntables make every item in your cabinet accessible with minimal effort.

12. Hanging Mesh Shower Caddies Repurposed

Think outside the shower and bring those hanging mesh organizers into your under-sink storage arsenal. These flexible, breathable organizers can hang from tension rods installed inside your cabinet, creating vertical storage zones that keep frequently used items visible and accessible. The mesh construction allows for airflow—particularly beneficial for damp sponges or recently used cleaning tools that need to dry. I installed several at varying heights in my bathroom vanity, creating dedicated zones for hair products, facial cleansers, and backup supplies. The soft construction conforms around plumbing obstacles in ways rigid organizers cannot, making them perfect for awkward spaces. Many feature multiple pockets of different sizes to accommodate everything from tiny cosmetic tools to full-sized bottles. Who knew your shower's organization system would work even better under your sink?

13. PVC Pipe Storage Tubes for Tall Items

Create custom storage solutions for awkwardly tall items like foil boxes, plastic wrap, and cleaning brushes using inexpensive PVC pipes as vertical storage tubes. Cut pipes to your desired height (typically 8-12 inches works well), sand the edges smooth, and arrange them standing upright on the cabinet floor or mount them to the cabinet wall. I painted mine in coordinating colors and labeled each tube for its intended contents, turning a functional hack into an organizational statement piece. The cylindrical shape perfectly contains tall, narrow items that typically fall over, while the sturdy construction prevents crushing. For an even more polished look, attach the pipes to a wooden base for stability. Like having custom-built organizers at a fraction of the cost, these DIY tubes transform how you store those challenging tall, skinny items that never seem to fit anywhere properly.

14. Pegboard Side Panel Systems

Revolutionize those ignored side walls of your under-sink cabinet by installing customizable pegboard panels that create infinitely adaptable vertical storage. Cut pegboard to fit the interior side walls of your cabinet, attach with screws or heavy-duty adhesive, and suddenly you have a blank canvas for organizational creativity. I use pegs and hooks to hang measuring cups, small tools, and even spray bottles by their triggers, while small baskets attached to the pegboard corral items that don't hang easily. The beauty of pegboard lies in its adaptability—you can reconfigure your arrangement as your storage needs evolve without permanent commitment. To maximize visibility, choose white pegboard or paint it a light color that brightens the cabinet interior. Like having an organizational chameleon that changes to meet your exact needs, pegboard brings professional-grade flexibility to your home storage.

15. Multi-Level Back-of-Cabinet Door Storage

Elevate your door organization beyond basic with multi-level systems specifically designed for the challenging proportions of under-sink cabinets. These tiered organizers attach to the back of your cabinet door and feature adjustable shelves that accommodate everything from tall spray bottles to flat scrub pads. I installed one with four customizable shelves, creating zones for different cleaning tasks—counter care, sink maintenance, floor products, and specialty cleaners. The best systems include combination features like towel bars at the bottom, small hooks for brushes, and adjustable dividers to prevent items from toppling when opening the door. Look for models with clear plastic or wire construction that maintains visibility of all items. Like a library card catalog for your cleaning supplies, these systems make everything categorized, visible, and instantly retrievable.

Conclusion

Transforming the organizational nightmare beneath your sink doesn't require contractor-level skills or boutique-level budgets—just thoughtful solutions that work with your specific challenges. The ideas we've explored leverage every available inch while working around the reality of pipes and irregular spaces. I've implemented many of these in my own home, turning previously frustrating cabinets into functional storage that actually makes daily tasks easier. The real victory isn't just in having a Pinterest-worthy cabinet (though that's a nice bonus); it's in reclaiming time and reducing frustration in your daily routines. Ready to tackle your under-sink chaos? Start with just one of these ideas and watch how it transforms not just your cabinet, but your relationship with that space.