Under my kitchen sink used to be a disaster zone. Bottles tipped over. Sponges hidden behind the pipes. I’d buy a new bottle of dish soap because I couldn’t see the three already back there.

The pipes make it awkward — you can’t just put a shelf in and call it done. But after some trial and error, I found a few things that actually work.

Work around the pipes

The main problem: pipes split the cabinet into two narrow zones with wasted space between them. Standard organizers ignore this. You need things that fit in front of and beside the pipes.

What doesn’t belong under the sink

Trash bags — yes, but keep them in the bathroom under-sink, not the kitchen. That’s counterintuitive but kitchen under-sink is too humid. Dishwasher pods: fine, but put them in a sealed container. The humidity turns them into a solid brick otherwise.

No paper products under the kitchen sink. One leak from the plumbing and everything is ruined. Paper towels go above, not below.

Bathroom sinks are easier — fewer pipes, less humidity. Same principles: pull-out bins, door hooks for brushes and hairdryers, and a small caddy for daily-use items in front.