Do coffee mugs seem to multiply in your kitchen cabinets? You’re not alone. These everyday essentials often take up valuable space and create frustrating clutter.
Whether you have a growing collection of souvenir mugs or just the daily coffee cups for your family, finding a good storage solution can be challenging.
I’ve faced this same problem in my small kitchen. After trying many different approaches, I’ve discovered several practical ways to organize mugs without sacrificing counter or cabinet space.
In this blog, I’ll share ten space-saving, attractive, and affordable mug storage ideas that work in any kitchen. From wall-mounted options to clever cabinet organizers, these solutions will help you display your favorite pieces while keeping others neatly tucked away.
Let’s transform your mug chaos into organized bliss!
Creative Mug Storage Ideas for Every Kitchen
These following 11 Creative and affordable storage solutions work in any space – from tiny apartments to spacious homes. Whether you want to display your collection or hide it away, you’ll find the perfect option to organize your mugs and make your kitchen more functional.
1. Wall-Mounted Mug Racks
Wall-mounted racks transform mug collections into attractive displays while freeing up cabinet space. I installed a wooden rack with metal hooks that instantly decluttered my kitchen.
These racks create the perfect coffee station when placed above your coffee maker. They come in various styles from rustic wood to sleek metal, fitting any kitchen design.
You can make one yourself with an old piece of wood and simple hooks, or purchase ready-made options online for $15-30. Most hold 6-12 mugs and install with just a few screws.
2. Under-Cabinet Mug Hooks
These small hooks screw directly into the bottom of upper cabinets, letting mugs hang by their handles. I love having my mugs within easy reach while making coffee.
Installation takes under 30 minutes—just measure, mark positions, and screw them in. The hanging mugs add a café-like feel without using counter or shelf space.
This solution works in both modern and rustic kitchens, and keeps your favorite mugs accessible but off your countertops.
3. Floating Shelves
Floating shelves turned my plain kitchen wall into a stylish display area. They’re perfect for showing off pretty mugs while saving cabinet space.
These customizable shelves fit any wall space and come in various materials. I chose reclaimed wood for warmth, but white shelves look sleek in modern kitchens.
Space multiple shelves about 12 inches apart for a dramatic display, and rearrange your mugs seasonally to refresh your kitchen’s look.
4. Mug Trees or Stands
Mug trees are ideal for renters or those who like changing their kitchen setup. My small ceramic-based stand holds six mugs while taking minimal counter space.
Available in countless styles from modern metal to rustic wood, these stands fit any decor. Two-tier versions double your storage capacity without using more counter area.
Place yours near your coffee maker for a functional and decorative coffee station that can move whenever you rearrange your kitchen.
5. Inside-Cabinet Door Storage
Cabinet doors offer hidden storage potential most people overlook. I attached slim adhesive hooks to mine for four extra mugs without using shelf space.
This solution keeps mugs dust-free and out of sight, perfect for clean-counter lovers. Use removable hooks if you rent to avoid damage.
Measure your cabinet depth first to ensure mugs won’t prevent doors from closing. I organized mine by size, making my morning routine much smoother.
6. Pegboards
Pegboards bring flexible storage to kitchens. My white pegboard holds mugs, small shelves, and hooks in arrangements I can change whenever I want.
One 2×3 foot board typically holds 10-15 mugs plus accessories. The design possibilities are endless, create patterns with colorful mugs or arrange by size.
Installation requires basic tools, and painting the pegboard to match your kitchen creates a cohesive look that elevates this practical solution.
7. Drawer Dividers for Mugs
Convert a deep drawer to mug storage with simple dividers. This game-changing solution prevents chips and lets you see every mug at a glance.
This method works best for standard-sized mugs and provides earthquake-friendly, child-safe storage. No more worrying about mugs falling from heights.
Adjustable bamboo dividers accommodate various mug shapes while adding warmth to your kitchen, more durable than plastic alternatives.
8. Hanging Rods with S-Hooks
For industrial-chic style, install a simple rod with S-hooks under cabinets or along windows. My stainless steel setup cost under $20 but looks high-end.
Choose rods that complement your kitchen, copper adds warmth to white spaces, while black hardware pops against light walls.
The open design allows air circulation, helping mugs dry completely after washing an unexpected benefit in humid kitchens.
9. Stackable Mug Organizers
These shelf inserts let you stack mugs without direct contact, preventing chips and cracks. They essentially create mini-shelves inside existing cabinets.
The wire design is nearly invisible, making mugs appear to float in organized rows. They work equally well in cabinets or on open shelves.
My $12 investment saved expensive mugs from damage and turned my chaotic cabinet into an orderly display where I can find exactly what I need.
10. Repurposed Furniture or Crates
Old crates, ladder shelves, and small bookshelves become unique mug displays with minimal effort. I mounted a wooden crate sideways and added hooks inside.
These vintage items add character while being eco-friendly. Often, a fresh coat of paint transforms an old piece into stylish storage.
This approach gives kitchens a personal touch that can’t be replicated. My repurposed display always sparks conversations with guests. Everyone wants to know where I “bought” it!
11. Magnetic Mug Strips
Magnetic strips offer an innovative storage solution, especially for homes with metal mugs. I installed a magnetic strip under my cabinet that holds my collection of metal camping mugs.
For ceramic mugs, add small magnetic dots to handles with strong adhesive. One 12-inch strip typically holds 3-4 mugs depending on their size.
This space-saving option works well in ultra-small kitchens or RVs where every inch matters. The floating appearance creates visual interest while keeping your favorites within easy reach.
Conclusion
I’ve tried many of these in my own kitchen. Sometimes the best plan is to mix a few different methods like using wall hooks for everyday mugs and a drawer for special ones.
Good mug storage isn’t just about being tidy. It makes your morning coffee routine easier and more fun. No more searching through messy cabinets when you’re still half-asleep!
Start with one idea that fits your space and budget. Even a small change can make a big difference in how your kitchen looks and works.
These solutions work in all kitchens from tiny apartments to big homes. The best choice depends on how many mugs you have and how you use your kitchen.
Good storage can also show off your favorite mugs as decoration. Those special mugs deserve to be seen!
Frequently Asked Questions
How many mugs should I keep in my kitchen?
Most households find that 2-3 mugs per person is plenty for daily use. If you’re a collector, consider displaying your special mugs and storing only your everyday ones in the kitchen. I rotate my seasonal mugs every few months to keep my collection manageable while still enjoying variety.
What’s the most budget-friendly mug storage option?
Inside-cabinet door hooks and under-cabinet mug hooks are the most affordable options, typically costing under $10. For a free solution, repurpose items you already have old shelves, crates, or even tension rods with S-hooks can create instant mug storage without spending a penny.
How do I prevent my hanging mugs from falling?
Choose hooks with a curved or closed design rather than open hooks. For under-cabinet hooks, select ones with rubber tips that prevent slipping. Make sure the hook extends far enough into the mug handle for security, and avoid hanging extremely heavy mugs that might strain the hooks.
Will these storage ideas work for travel mugs too?
Most travel mugs are too tall for standard mug trees or under-cabinet hooks. For travel mugs, drawer dividers and deep floating shelves work best. If you have several travel mugs, consider dedicating a specific cabinet shelf to them, using tension rods as dividers to keep them upright.
How do I organize mugs of different sizes?
Group similar-sized mugs together for the most efficient storage. Use stackable organizers for standard mugs, while reserving hooks or pegboards for mugs with unique shapes. In my kitchen, I keep oversized mugs on open shelves and smaller espresso cups in a drawer with dividers. This system makes everything easy to find and prevents smaller mugs from getting lost behind larger ones.
