Living alone is probably something that many people aspire to.
However, once you actually start living there, you may find some negative aspects, such as a lack of storage space or a kitchen that is difficult to use and makes cooking a hassle.
To help solve these problems, this article will introduce storage ideas and examples of kitchen layouts so that you can live comfortably even if you are living alone in a rented apartment.
We will also share some ideas that can be implemented even in small spaces.
This is very useful information for people living alone or starting a new life, so please take a look.
6 storage methods for a rental kitchen! Storage techniques to keep things neat and tidy
When it comes to storage in a rented kitchen, it is important to make the most of the limited space.
However, many people may be wondering how to store them.
First, we'll introduce six techniques for neatly organizing your storage even in a small kitchen.
- Installing storage shelves to make efficient use of space
- Reduce waste around the kitchen
- Installation of hooks for hanging pots, dishes, etc.
- Storage techniques using storage boxes
- Drawer storage ideas to match your kitchen tools
- Utilize the storage space under your kitchen counter
1. Install storage shelves to make efficient use of space
In order to cook comfortably in a small rented kitchen, it is important to make good use of the space.
To do this, we recommend installing storage shelves.

By using the storage shelves, you can neatly store seasonings, tableware, cooking utensils, etc.
For example, if you store condiments by type and arrange dishes by size, you can easily take them out.
Also, cooking will be easier if you keep the utensils you use most often within reach and put away the ones you don't use.
Storage shelves can be attached to the kitchen wall or installed under the counter, making efficient use of space and making your kitchen more comfortable.
2. Reduce waste around the kitchen
There may be a lot of unused utensils, ingredients, unnecessary papers and trash around the kitchen.
Reducing these items will free up space and make your kitchen more comfortable.
First, start by finding tools and ingredients that you don't use and getting rid of them.
For example, unused pots, pans and old cookware can be thrown out or recycled.
It's also a good idea to throw away any expired food items and old storage containers.
It is also important to reduce unnecessary paper and trash around the kitchen.
For example, throw away unnecessary items like recipe books, flyers, and old receipts, and keep only what you need.
Also, when selecting foods and packaging, it is important to choose products that produce as little wasteful packaging material.
3. Install hooks to hang pots, dishes, etc.
In order to make the most of a small rented kitchen, it's important to make use of hooks as well as storing pots, dishes, etc.
By using hooks, you can make efficient use of space on walls, kitchen counters, etc.

For example, by hanging your frying pans and pot lids, you can keep your counter top and drawers neat and tidy.
You can also use hooks to store your kitchen utensils, reducing the time and stress you spend searching for them.
There are many different types of storage that use hooks, including wall-mounted types and types that can be attached to the kitchen counter.
Choose the hook that best suits your space and the items you want to store.
4. Storage tips using storage boxes
The storage box is very convenient for storing small items and seasonings together.
There are many different types of storage boxes available, from large to small, so choose one that suits what you want to store in it.
We also recommend that you choose one that is easy to use, such as transparent or with drawers.
For example, if you want to store your spices together, it is convenient to store the same type of spices together in a storage box.
Also, by labelling your storage boxes, you can easily see at a glance what's in each one.
Storage boxes can be used not only in the kitchen but also in other rooms such as the living room and bedroom.
Find the storage method that works best for you and make your life more comfortable.
5. Drawer storage ideas to match your kitchen tools
One technique for keeping a rented kitchen tidy is to store kitchen tools efficiently.
Kitchen tools come in a variety of sizes and shapes, including frying pans, pots, ladles, and spatulas.
This can result in wasted space in the drawer or tools bumping into each other and getting damaged.
Therefore, you can make storage easier by creating dividers that fit the shape and size of the tools you want to store in the drawer.
For example, in a drawer where you store frying pans, create dividers that fit the size of the pans.
Also, when it comes to ladles and spatulas, installing multiple small dividers will make them easier to take out.
By using clever drawer storage ideas, you can make efficient use of storage space for your kitchen tools and enjoy a comfortable kitchen life.
6. Make use of the storage space under your kitchen counter
In rented kitchens, the space under the counter tends to be wasted.
However, by utilizing these spaces effectively, you can significantly increase the storage capacity of your kitchen.
For example, you can add drawers or storage boxes.
If you want to install drawers, you can easily do so using a DIY kit.
When choosing storage boxes, be sure to choose one that is the right size and shape to fit the items you are going to store.
The space under the counter is not easily noticeable, so when using it as storage space, it is important to keep it organized.

We recommend using labels and dividers to help you keep track of what's where.
Five points to make your kitchen more comfortable when living alone
When living alone in a kitchen, it is important to use the limited space efficiently and comfortably.
Next, we will introduce five points to help you make the most of your kitchen when living alone.
- Secure storage space
- Get creative with your lighting
- Prepare the minimum necessary cooking utensils
- Secure cooking space
- Keep it clean
1. Make room for storage
Ensuring storage space is one of the essential points for making the most of a single person's kitchen.
Start by getting rid of things you don't use or have no use for.
Another way to free up storage space is to reduce the amount of stuff you have on your kitchen counters.
Keep things you need for cooking or use frequently on the counter, but store everything else on shelves or in drawers.
You can also make better use of the space in your kitchen by installing shelves and hooks on the walls and ceiling.
If you install shelves, you can store seasonings, preserved foods, and other items together.

Make sure you have enough storage space to make your kitchen work easier.
2. Get creative with your lighting
By using clever lighting in your kitchen, you can create a comfortable and practical space.
First, choose lighting fixtures that have enough light to ensure brightness.
Work spaces, such as kitchen counters and around the sink, need bright, clear light.
Also, pay attention to the color temperature of the lighting.
Warm-colored lighting is warm and calming, but when cooking, white lighting may be easier to see in.
Additionally, indirect lighting can be used to create a more atmospheric space.
By mounting it under a kitchen counter or storage space, it will cast a soft light that will illuminate the entire room.
Recently, smart lighting has also been introduced. It is convenient and easy to use because it can be controlled by voice or smartphone.
3. Prepare the minimum necessary cooking utensils
In addition to securing storage and cooking space in the kitchen, it is also important to have the minimum necessary cooking utensils.
If you have too many cooking utensils, they can take up storage space or you may end up with unused utensils, which can make your kitchen look cluttered.
The minimum necessary cooking utensils are those that you use on a regular basis or that you will use when necessary.
For example, pots and pans, ladles and forks, cutting boards and knives.
Also, different dishes require different cooking utensils, so it's a good idea to prepare the necessary equipment each time.
For example, if you are making pasta, you will need a pot to boil the noodles and a colander to drain the spaghetti.
By having only the bare minimum of cooking utensils, your kitchen will be neat and tidy and easy to use.
4. Make room for cooking
If you live alone, it is important to make effective use of the kitchen space and ensure you have enough space to cook.
If you don't have enough cooking space, you'll end up feeling crowded while cooking and it will be less efficient.
Ways to free up cooking space include placing a countertop on your kitchen counter or table, or using a foldable countertop.
It is also important to have enough space to store the utensils you need for cooking.
For example, you can make effective use of your cooking space by making space for a cutting board for cutting ingredients, knives, and other cooking utensils.
By using your cooking space efficiently, you can prepare and clean up more smoothly, allowing you to enjoy cooking in a more comfortable kitchen.
5. Keep it clean
Keeping your kitchen clean when you live alone is very important to prevent food poisoning and the growth of bacteria.
To keep it clean
- Wash your hands before and after cooking
- Wash kitchen utensils such as knives and cutting boards thoroughly with detergent
- Throw away any food waste or leftovers produced during cooking
It is necessary to do so.
In addition, the walls, floors, and ventilation fans around the kitchen are places where dirt tends to accumulate, so it is important to clean them regularly and keep them clean.
To clean, it is effective to use special kitchen cleaners to remove dirt.
In order to keep your kitchen clean when you live alone, it is important to keep it clean on a daily basis.
Also, by thoroughly cleaning your kitchen on a regular basis, you will be able to enjoy cooking in a more comfortable environment.
Kitchen storage ideas for single people
When living alone, storage space in the kitchen is often limited.
Here are 5 kitchen storage ideas recommended for people living alone.
A must-see for those living alone or those having trouble with kitchen storage!
- Using cabinet drawers for storage
- Wall storage using magnetic hooks
- How to easily organize your storage with inexpensive storage items
- How to make the most of your space with a slim rack
- How to use easy-to-use, well-designed seasoning containers
1. Cabinet Drawer Storage
Here are three storage ideas using cabinet drawers.
Separate the inside of the drawer
First of all, dividing the inside of your drawer neatly will make it easier to organize your small items.
Store cutlery, knives, cutting boards, etc. in the drawers.
You can also use storage boxes to categorize small items, making them easier to access.
Add shelves to the drawers
You can increase storage space by adding shelves inside the drawers.
You can also cut and modify the board to fit the height of your drawers.
You can use this shelf to store your pans and pots.
Make use of the depth of your drawers
To make effective use of the depth of your drawers, we also recommend using storage boxes or drawer dividers.
By making full use of the depth, you can increase your storage space.
By making good use of your cabinet drawers, you can cook smoothly even in a kitchen where you live alone.
2. Wall storage using magnetic hooks
We will introduce three wall storage methods using magnetic hooks that are effective for kitchens where one person lives.
Magnetic hooks can be used simply by sticking them to the wall, allowing you to easily create storage space.
Store your cooking utensils
The first is to hang cooking utensils.
Simply stick the magnetic hooks on the wall and hang your favorite cookware on them to easily store your cookware.
Also, it's convenient to keep items that you use frequently within easy reach.

Kitchen paper and sponge storage
The second is a way to store kitchen paper and sponges.
Simply attach a hook-shaped storage basket to a magnetic hook and fill it with kitchen paper and sponges for tidy storage.

Condiment and spice storage
The third is how to store seasonings and spices.
By arranging spice bottles and seasonings on shelves equipped with magnetic hooks, you can store them easily without taking up too much space.

3. How to easily organize your storage with inexpensive storage items
Storing your kitchen when living alone can be a challenge, but by using inexpensive storage items you can easily organize your storage.
Here we will introduce three recommended storage methods using inexpensive storage items.
Dividers for drawers
The first one is a divider that can be used in drawers.
You can store cooking utensils and seasonings separately. They can be easily purchased at 100 yen shops.
A sponge rack for the sink
We also recommend a rack with pockets for storing sponges, brushes, and other cleaning products.
It can be hung on the faucet and used to store sponges, etc., making it very convenient and hygienic.

Kitchen paper holder
You can also use a magnetic kitchen paper holder.
It can be attached to any magnetic surface, such as a refrigerator, allowing you to store kitchen paper without taking up space.

4. How to make the most of your space with a slim rack
The slim rack is an item that allows for efficient storage even in small spaces such as the kitchen.
Here we will introduce three storage methods using slim racks.
Slim drawer rack
The slim drawer rack allows you to store a lot of items even in a limited space by storing them vertically.
In addition, the drawer design makes it easy and convenient to take things in and out.
Slim multi-rack
This slim multi-rack has multiple shelves, so you can store and categorize small items, tableware, etc.
Plus, it has casters, making it easy to move.

Slim wagon type rack
This slim wagon-type rack has drawers for high storage capacity and casters for easy movement.
It also has a shelf on top, allowing you to store more items.

5. How to use easy-to-use, well-designed condiment containers
When choosing spice containers for a single person's kitchen, if you choose ones that are easy to use and have a good design, the kitchen will have a clean impression.
Here we will introduce three items that are not only functional but also stylish.
Glass container
Glass containers have the advantage that you can see what's inside, making it easy to see what's in them and take things out.
It also has a high design quality and can be used as kitchen decor.

Spice rack
Spice racks are ideal for storing spices as they can store different types of spices according to their type.
You can also mount it on a wall for storage without taking up too much space.

Magnetic condiment container
It can be attached to a refrigerator or wall with a magnet, making it easy to take out.
It also has a great design and will be a great accent piece in your kitchen.
Example of a small kitchen layout for a rental property! Making the most of limited space
Here are five layout examples to make the most of the limited space in a rented kitchen.
Please use this as a reference so that you can cook smoothly even in a small kitchen.
- Make your kitchen utensils stylish! Hanging methods that make them easier to use
- A simple and stylish kitchen! White and wood-grain fixtures for a unified look
- Make your small kitchen look spacious! Turn the back of the kitchen into a dining space
- Make your kitchen pop and stylish! Decorate your kitchen with stickers and miscellaneous items
- DIY your own kitchen! Make your own original shelves
1. Make your kitchen utensils stylish! Hanging methods that make them easier to use
Hang stylish and easy-to-use kitchen utensils even in a small kitchen!
Depending on how you hang them, you can make the most of limited space and make your kitchen feel larger.
For example, hanging pots and pans on hooks is convenient as it saves storage space and makes them easy to access when you need them.
You can also use magnets to hang knives and cooking utensils.

This will save space on your counter and give a clean look.
Plus, you can create a stylish atmosphere by displaying your kitchen utensils.
For example, hanging ceramic plates and cups can create a stylish and warm look in your kitchen.
You can also hang kitchen utensils of the same color and shape to create a unified look and make your kitchen look neat and tidy.
2. A simple and stylish kitchen! White and wood-grain fixtures for a unified look
One way to make a small rented kitchen simple and stylish is to use white and wood-grain appliances.
White kitchen appliances give a clean impression, while wood-grain fixtures create a natural atmosphere.
In addition, by unifying the appliances, you can expect the kitchen space to appear larger.
Additionally, try using simple tiles on the kitchen walls to create a clean look.
By providing easy-to-use drawers and storage spaces around the kitchen, cooking and tidying up can be made smooth and easy.
For your kitchen floor, you can create a soft look by using wood-look flooring or floor tiles.
By unifying the appliances in white and wood-grain like this, you can transform your kitchen into a stylish and easy-to-use space.
3. Make a small kitchen look spacious! Turn the back of the kitchen into a dining space
One layout example for making a small kitchen look larger is to turn the area behind the kitchen into a dining space.
For example, you can make effective use of the space by installing a counter or table behind the kitchen so that you can eat there.
You can also install shelves or cupboards at the back of the kitchen to store dishes and cooking utensils.
This will allow you to make the most of the space and give your kitchen a neater look.
If you use the space behind the kitchen as a dining area, you will need to pay attention to the placement of the table and chairs.
You can create a more user-friendly space by choosing smaller tables, compact chairs, or foldable tables and chairs that fit the space.
4. Make it pop and stylish! Decorate your kitchen with stickers and miscellaneous items
One way to make a small rented kitchen pop and stylish is to decorate it with stickers and miscellaneous items.
By making the most of a small space and decorating it with items you like, you can create a bright and fun atmosphere in your kitchen.
For example, simply sticking some colorful stickers or posters on the walls can instantly change the impression of your kitchen.
You can also create a stylish, unified kitchen by selecting kitchen accessories and tableware according to a theme or by using the same materials and colors.
However, be careful not to add too many decorative items or tableware, as this can make the room feel cramped.
Create a pop and stylish space in your kitchen with just the bare essentials.
5. DIY your own kitchen! Make your own original shelves
Even if you have a small rented kitchen, you can transform it into one that suits your tastes by doing some DIY.
For example, you can increase your storage space by creating your own shelves.
If you make it yourself, you can freely customize the size, color, shape, etc. to suit your style.
When building a shelf, the first thing you need to do is gather the materials you need.
You will need wood, boards, screws, bolts, a hammer, etc.
To make it, cut the pieces of wood to the appropriate length and assemble them with screws.
If you want to change the shape or size, you can adjust it by switching or processing the wood.
DIY not only allows you to enjoy the fun of making things by hand, but it also allows you to create a space that is full of originality.
However, it is important to pay attention to how you use the tools and your safety.
[Finally] Make the most of your small kitchen by combining storage space and usability
This time, we introduced six techniques and layout examples for storage in a rented kitchen.
Kitchen storage can be stressful when you have too many things and can't arrange them properly, but by using these methods you can create neat storage even in a limited space.
For example, ways to make effective use of shelves and drawers, and ways to organize dishes, seasonings, etc. by category.
Other convenient storage items include baskets that can be attached to cupboards and magnetic spice containers.
In addition, we also introduced a method for ease of use, such as keeping frequently used seasonings within easy reach and storing cooking utensils on the wall.
By putting these storage methods into practice, you will be able to enjoy smooth cooking even in a single-person kitchen.