Marie Kondo's tips for using vertical storage in the kitchen are so simple – we can bring them to life anywhere

No one knows 'tidy' like Marie Kondo. The Japanese organizing consultant, author, and TV presenter has written four books on organizing and starred in her own Netflix original series. Her philosophy of only keeping items that 'spark joy' has become a massively popular way to minimize clutter and maximize happiness in the home.

Luckily for you, Homes & Gardens has her exclusive tips on organizing a kitchen. In our recent interview with Kondo on her upcoming appearance at The Clean and Tidy Home Show at ExCeL London, she explained how to utilize vertical storage your space. It's oh so simple.

'Using vertical storage in the kitchen is a very useful solution with high storage capacity,' Kondo exclusively tells H&G. 'The key is to store items in such a way that you can see what is where at a glance.'

She continues: 'First, divide the items into categories. I recommend simple categories such as spices, powders, canned foods, retort foods, etc., which are easy for anyone to understand. In addition, for each category, place the most frequently used items at the front, where they are easy to reach, and the less frequently used items at the back. For foods in the same category, check the expiration date and arrange them so that the items closest to the date are in the front.' This works just as well for organizing a pantry.

Furthermore, using the best kitchen organizers is just as important aesthetically as where you place each item. Kondo states, 'Using containers of the same series as dividers makes the storage look more consistent and beautiful. If you find a series of containers that you like, it might be a good idea to buy a set of those.'

She concludes: 'Kitchens are full of miscellaneous items and storage may seem difficult at first glance. But the principles of tidying are as simple as in any other area of the house. By regularly reviewing your kitchen storage, letting go of expired items, and rearranging items to make them more accessible, you can create a kitchen that is uniquely yours and sparks joy for you.'

Shop Pantry Storage Techniques

After you've purged the items you don't need, and organized them based on category, organization containers are a must for giving your kitchen that polished look. We love this innovative spice rack from Sweet July for keeping spices and powders organized.

These large canisters from Amazon are ideal for dry goods, and the glass and bamboo design makes them so gorgeous in any space. A lazy susan like this one for Nate Berkus is perfect for maximizing vertical storage by stacking smaller food items high on each shelf.

Using your vertical storage is about maximizing the aesthetic beauty and functionality of your space

If you want more KonMari tips, Kondo will speak at the Main Stage of the Clean and Tidy Home Show on October 19. Also, in partnership with the Clean and Tidy Home Show, KonMari will hold an In-Person Consultant Course, which will be the first in 5 years in Europe. Registration closes on September 30. Why don’t you leap and change your life in 3 days?