5 Genius Under Sink Storage DIY Hacks

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Under Sink Storage DIY

It is the messiest spot in the house. You open the cabinet under the sink, and an avalanche of sponges, spray bottles, and trash bags falls out. The awkward P-trap pipe makes standard shelving impossible, turning this valuable space into a “black hole.”

But you don’t need expensive custom cabinetry. With a few clever under sink storage DIY tricks, you can double your usable space and actually find the Windex when you need it. Here are 5 hacks to navigate the pipes and organize the chaos.

1. The “Tension Rod” Spray Hanger

The $5 solution for bottles.

This is the most viral under sink storage DIY hack for a reason.

The Tool: Buy a simple white Tension Rod.
The Install: Mount it high up inside the cabinet, just under the sink basin.
The Function: Hook the triggers of your spray bottles over the rod. They hang in the “dead air” space, leaving the floor clear for baskets.

2. The “Lazy Susan” Cleaning Station

Stop reaching into the dark.

If you hate digging to the back of the cabinet, spin it to you.

The Product: A plastic Lazy Susan Turntable is essential.
Placement: Place it on one side of the pipe.
Use: Load it with your daily cleaners. One spin and you grab exactly what you need without knocking over ten other bottles.

3. The “Acrylic Drawer” Stack

Verticality is key.

Since you can’t put a full shelf across because of the pipe, use narrow drawers on the sides.

The Look: Clear Acrylic Stackable Drawers allow you to see what is inside (sponges, dishwasher tabs, brushes).
The Fit: Measure the narrow space between the pipe and the wall. Stack as high as the plumbing allows.

4. The Door-Mounted Trash Bag Dispenser

Utilize the door.

Trash bag boxes are bulky and get crushed.

The Build: Screw two small curtain rod hooks onto the inside of the cabinet door.
The Dowel: Slide a wooden dowel through the trash bag roll and rest it on the hooks.
Result: A custom dispenser that frees up shelf space. You just pull and tear.

5. The “Riser” Shelf for Pipes

Building around the obstacle.

The DIY: Build a custom “U” shaped shelf using scrap wood.
The Design: Cut the legs tall enough to clear the bottom of the cabinet but short enough to fit under the P-trap.
Benefit: This creates a second floor for your under sink storage DIY setup, allowing you to store flat items (like cutting boards or mats) underneath and bottles on top.

PRO TIP: Waterproof the Bottom

Leaks happen. An organized cabinet is useless if the wood rots.

The Fix: Before you organize, line the bottom of the cabinet with a Waterproof Shelf Liner or peel-and-stick vinyl tiles.
Why: It makes wiping up spills effortless and protects the cabinetry from chemical rings.

For more plumbing-safe organization tips, check this guide from Bob Vila.

FAQ: Under Sink Solutions

Q: How do I organize around a garbage disposal?

A: A garbage disposal takes up huge space. In this case, stick to Door Storage (Hack #4) and small, low bins that can slide underneath the motor unit. Avoid stacking high.

Q: Is it safe to store chemicals under the sink?

A: Yes, but if you have small children or pets, you MUST install a Child Safety Lock. Organization makes items easier to grab—even for kids.

Q: What is the best depth for under sink bins?

A: Measure your pipe clearance! Usually, standard 12-inch deep bins fit well in front of the pipes. Don’t guess; measure from the door to the pipe first.