Too Many Mugs? Smart Storage Ideas & Decluttering Tips for Small Kitchens
Too many mugs, not enough space? You’re not alone!
If your small kitchen cupboard is bursting and you can’t possibly add another, but you’ve just spotted a mug you love… don’t worry. With a few simple changes, there’s still room for a cup of joy (and tea). It's easy to accumulate mugs over the years. They’re not just practical, they often hold memories and meaning behind them. But do you have too many mugs now? Is it time to sort out what's staying and what should go?
The most important thing is that the mugs you love aren't getting chipped or damaged or heaven forbid, falling out of the cupboard when you open it. If it's got to that stage then read on!
Here’s how to store, sort and love your mugs, old and new.
How to Make Space for New Mugs
A quick system that works:
- Keep only the mugs you use regularly or really love
- Let go of chipped, bulky or forgotten mugs
- Use shelf risers or under-shelf hooks to double your storage
- Display 4-8 favourites at a time - and rotate them by season or mood
- Repurpose extras as pen pots or plant holders
- Gift or donate old mugs - they may just bring someone else joy too
Declutter with Purpose: Do You Really Use Them?
If your cupboard is crammed full, start here. Pull out all your mugs and ask yourself:
- Do I use this mug often - or ever?
- Do I love how it looks or how it feels in my hands?
- Does it have meaning - a gift, a memory, a moment?
If it doesn’t tick one of those boxes, it might be time to let it go. If it's shoved to the back of the cupboard and you haven't used it for months, that's often a sign of an unloved mug. You don’t need to get rid of everything - just make sure what you keep has some kind of meaning or sparks an emotion or feeling.
Storage Ideas for Small Kitchens
In a small kitchen, you don’t always need more space. It could be a question of smarter storage.
Here are some ideas:
- Shelf risers: Add an extra tier inside a cupboard to separate rows of mugs
- Under-shelf hooks: Hang mugs from the shelf above to free up room below
- Mug trees or wall racks: A stylish way to store and display everyday favourites
- Cubby-style shelving: Perfect for showing off special or collectible mugs
- Turntables: Useful for deep cupboards where mugs tend to get hidden at the back
And yes, it's ok to stack mugs - as long as they are sturdy and not prone to chipping. If you have a lot of fine bone china mugs, just be careful with stacking as they can chip.
Rotate and Display Your Favourites
Instead of squeezing every mug into one space, pick a few to keep out. A good rule of thumb is 4 to 8 everyday mugs within reach. Tuck the others away and you can rotate these by season, colour or mood.
Doing this means each mug gets its moment - and your shelf feels less cluttered.
What to Do with Mugs You Don’t Use
If you’ve got mugs in the cupboard that are gathering dust, try:
- Gift swaps: Offer them to friends or family who might love them more
- Repurpose: Turn mugs into mini planters, pen pots or holders for makeup brushes
- Use elsewhere: A favourite mug can make a lovely catchall dish in the hallway or bedroom
- Donate: Local charity shops, shelters or community centres may gladly take them
Some mugs are better used elsewhere - and that’s great. If you need reasons for gifting a mug, you might enjoy this post on 5 reasons why giving a gift as a mug is a perfect idea.
And as for repurposing old mugs, here's an interesting post on Alternative Uses for Mugs
FAQs
What’s the best way to store mugs in a small kitchen?
The best way to store mugs in a small kitchen is to maximise vertical space. Use shelf risers, under-shelf hooks, or a wall-mounted rack to keep mugs organised and accessible without taking up valuable cupboard room.
Can I hang mugs to save cupboard space?
Yes, hanging mugs using under-shelf hooks or wall-mounted racks is a great way to save space. It keeps your surfaces clear and adds a decorative element to your kitchen too.
Should I keep mugs I never use?
It depends. If the mug has sentimental value, you might keep it for display. Otherwise, if it’s not used or loved, consider donating or repurposing it to free up space. If it's a special mug that you no longer use, perhaps take a photo of it as a reminder, then maybe it's time to let it go.
How do I decide which mugs to keep?
Keep mugs that are used regularly, ones you love the look or feel of, or those with personal meaning. Everything else can be stored, repurposed or passed on.
What to do with old or chipped mugs?
You can repurpose old or chipped mugs as plant pots, pen holders, or small storage pots. If they’re badly damaged, recycle them where facilities exist, or use them for craft projects.
How many mugs do I really need?
For everyday use, most people only need 4 to 8 mugs. If you enjoy collecting, store the extras away and rotate them by season or mood.
Why are mugs so hard to get rid of?
Mugs often carry emotional meaning - gifts, memories, or comfort. That’s why decluttering them can feel more personal than with other kitchen items.
Can a mug have sentimental value?
Absolutely. Mugs are often tied to people, places or special moments. That’s part of what makes them such meaningful gifts. Read more here.
Is it okay to give someone a mug as a gift?
Yes, definitely! Mugs make really thoughtful and practical gifts, especially when they reflect the recipient’s personality or interests. Find out why mugs make perfect presents.
What makes a mug a favourite?
Favourite mugs are usually the ones we reach for without thinking. They feel good to hold, have the right shape or weight, and often carry happy memories or meaning. For example, it could be your favourite animal, or football team. Animal themed mugs are popular because they remind us of the animals we feel a connection with. Having them on the side of a mug is like a friendly face or companion to be with you throughout the day.
Final Thoughts
A full cupboard doesn’t mean you have to miss out. Whether you rotate, repurpose, or finally let go of those forgotten mugs at the back, there’s always a way to make room for something new.
And who knows? Your next favourite mug might be waiting for you already.
