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How to Organize Pots and Pans (and Dishes, Cutting Boards, and Lids) with Racks and Shelving

We’ve tested a ton of cookware and eventually ran out of storage space. This guide walks you through what we tried and what finally worked. Our best solution: steel wire shelves paired with pan organizers, plus donating excess cookware. But there are many options depending on your space and how much gear you own.

Countertop / Shelftop / Pantry / Cabinet Pan Organizers

The simplest way to organize is with pan racks designed to sit on shelves, countertops, or in cabinets.

Rubbermaid Pan Organizer Rack

  • Holds up to 2.23 lbs per pan
  • Fits 2 pans up to 14" and 3 up to 9", stored sideways
  • Can be mounted vertically or laid horizontally
  • Comes with screws and adhesive patch for mounting
  • Each slot is ~2.5 inches wide (actual internal width)
  • Protects pans from scratches
  • Also works for lids
  • “Titanium” is just a color; both are painted steel
  • Includes Microban coating (not necessary and environmentally questionable)

Grayline used to make a similar product, but seems to have left the market. If you find one, it’s comparable to Rubbermaid in quality.

DecoBros 6-Compartment Organizer Rack

  • 17.25" L x 8" W
  • 3 large compartments (~3.5" apart) fit sauté pans best
  • 3 small compartments (~1.5" apart) for lids or boards
  • Divider wires dip in the middle to accommodate lid handles

Other Options

The Seville Classics 4-Tier Pan Rack has good welds and finish but isn’t a standout. Their 2-Tier Corner Shelf Organizer is poorly made. However, Seville’s stainless steel carts are solid (see below).

Rolling Islands and Carts

Rolling carts or islands add flexible storage. But they take space and can cost a lot if you want durability. We chose an industrial-style Seville stainless steel cart, which offers solid quality at a decent price.

If you prefer a wood-top cart, make sure it’s at least 2 inches thick to avoid warping over time.

Wall-Mounted Pot Racks

Wall racks save cabinet space and often include shelves plus S-hooks for hanging. For example:

Range Kleen CW6009 Stainless Steel Rack

  • 36" x 12" x 10", holds up to 30 lbs
  • Top shelf stores pots, spices, etc.
  • Includes S-hooks (we recommend asymmetrical hooks for better grip)

Important tips:

  • Mount into studs, not drywall (use a stud finder!)
  • Consider adding a separate wall- or door-mounted lid rack

Ceiling-Mounted Racks

Great for showing off cookware, but comes with some warnings:

What to Consider:

  • Weight limit: Heavy pans (e.g., cast iron) can max out racks fast
  • Hooks: 8–12 hooks is common—might not be enough for large collections
  • Spacing: Prevent banging and scratching
  • Material: Painted or chrome-plated steel is common, but stainless steel is most durable
  • Safety: In earthquake zones, look for multiple mounting points
  • Hooks: Replace lost hooks with aftermarket ones (we like Range Kleen C48)

Steel Wire Shelving (Wire Racks)

If you have lots of gear, steel wire shelving is a pro-level solution used in commercial kitchens. But quality varies.

What to Look for:

  • NSF-certified: Ensures safety for wet environments; Seville and Trinity are reliable brands
  • Finish types:
    • Chrome plating: Durable but can chip with hard knocks
    • Stainless steel: Best option—naturally rust-resistant and no coating to wear off
    • Zinc plating: Cheaper, less durable alternative

We ultimately chose NSF-certified Seville shelving for durability, and we’re happy with the result. Wire shelves let us store pans, organizers, small appliances, and pantry items all in one tidy setup.

Final Tips

  • Get rid of excess cookware you don’t use
  • Match your solution to your space—wall, ceiling, cart, or shelf
  • Invest in NSF-certified or stainless steel racks if you want long-term reliability
  • Use pan/lid organizers to prevent scratches and save space

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