In a world filled with storage systems and hacks, a spice rack isn't the first solution that springs to mind when thinking about all things organization.
That's what I thought at least. As it turns out, though, these racks aren't just nifty for sorting out spices, but actually come in handy all around the home. In fact, from nail polishes to plants, home pros love them for their small, slim size and adaptable qualities.
Here, I spoke to organizational experts to find out their home organizing ideas for using spice racks as an affordable alternative to traditional storage.
1. For nail polish
Anyone with an impressive collection of nail polish (or even just a few stray bottles) will know that they're pretty inconvenient to store. Down to their tiny size and irregular shapes, lining them up can often make them look more chaotic than salon-worthy.
Here, says Di Ter Avest, professional organizer and founder of Diisorganized, is where spice racks come in handy. 'If your nail polish collection is overflowing from your bathroom drawers, a spice rack is a simple fix,' she explains. 'Arrange your polishes by color or brand, and use the rack to display them like a mini salon.'
If you find you simply have too many to organize, Punteha van Terheyden, head of Solved here at Homes & Gardens recently tried the 'Didn't Know' decluttering method to cut down her collection, and rated it a 10/10 for its streamlining success.
All prices right at time of publication.
If you'd rather invest in the real deal (or have a large collection!), this nail polish organizer holds between 56 and 96 bottles, and is made of premium acrylic.
This spice rack is coated with bronze, for a rust-resistant storage solution suitable for use in the bathroom. They have rubber feet to prevent scratching or sliding.
If you have a large collection of nail polishes, I love the idea of using a rotating rack. The built-in handle on this one makes it easy to transport your polishes when needed and the side-bar will stop your bottles falling off.
2. To display essential oils
I love using my essential oils in my MUJI Aroma Diffuser (available at Amazon) but often lose my favorite ones in my bedroom, and struggle to find an effective storage solution.
Luckily, professional organizer Ter Avest says, 'If you're a fan of essential oils, a spice rack is a fantastic way to keep them organized. The size is perfect for those tiny bottles, and you can easily see what you have at a glance.'
Perfect to create an aromatherapy nook, pair with a calming color scheme, comfortable seating and your best reed diffuser for a slice of serenity.
This fresh, linen scent will pair well with essential oils, to enhance any room and invite a moment of calm.
3. To sort art supplies
If you or your kids love getting crafty, knowing how to organize art supplies or organizing a craft room can often feel a stressful endeavor.
But, fear not, as Ben Soreff, professional organizer at House to Home Organizing, says, 'Spice racks work well in an art studio or the kids craft room ideas, for jars of paint,' particularly when paired with a pencil and paintbrush holder, such as the U.S. Art Supply 96 Hole Plastic Pencil & Brush Holder available at Walmart.
This holder keeps paintbrushes and pens neatly stored, and will work alongside a spice rack for the ultimate art supplies overhaul.
4. For bathroom countertop organization
Contrary to popular belief, organizing a bathroom countertop doesn't have to be tricky. According to professional organizer Ter Avest, all you need is a spice rack.
She says, 'Spice racks are great for corralling all those bathroom products that tend to clutter the counter. Using the vertical space (especially when opting for a wall-mounted option, such as the Moforoco Spice Rack Organizer Wall Mount available at Amazon) will free up valuable counter space and make your morning routine a little smoother.'
Another brilliant way to make use of vertical space when considering bathroom organization ideas is to use over-door storage solutions. No tools or drilling are required to install this one, which simply slots over your door quickly and easily.
5. Create a miniature library
I love this super cute idea from professional organizer Di Ter Avest, which utilizes a spice rack to create a miniature library – perfect for organizing a kids room.
She suggests, 'Spice racks can be the perfect size for a kid-friendly bookshelf. Mount a couple at child height, and you have a simple way to display their favorite picture books.
'This setup encourages reading and makes it easy for little ones to pick out and put away their own books,' while maximizing space in your childrens' room ideas and creating a focal point which encourages independence.
6. To organize cosmetics
Forget what you think you know about the best makeup organizers. When it comes to organizational hacks, Punteha van Terheyden, head of Solved here at Homes & Gardens, knows her stuff, and recently, when trying to conceal clutter in the bedroom, she discovered an Amazon storage gem that keeps her bedroom clutter out of sight.
She says, 'I love these, because many adhesive wall organizers can be big and bulky. The spice rack versions are shallow and perfect for storing my cosmetics such as makeup pallets, and headbands. It reduces visual clutter from my bedroom's vanity table whilst also not interfering with my closet's funtion.'
Therefore, spice racks are a space-saving way to use vertical storage, and work well when it comes to organizing makeup.
This wall mounted basket is strong and durable, and simply peels and sticks to surfaces without the need for screws. It can hold up to 4.75 pounds.
7. Create a mini plant shelf
Why not use your spice rack to create a mini shelf for your small indoor plants, suggests professional organizer Ter Avest.
She says, 'For a bit of greenery around the house, repurpose a spice rack as a mini plant shelf. You can use it to display small pots of herbs in the kitchen or succulents in any room.
'It adds a touch of nature to your space, and the slim profile of the rack makes it easy to fit just about anywhere,' perfect for displaying your tiny houseplants.
While there are so many ways to repurpose a spice rack, if you prefer to stick to basics, our tips on organizing spices can help make cooking your favorite meals a breeze.
