Picture this: You’re standing in front of your kitchen island, staring at that spinning wonder that’s been gathering dust since you bought it. The one with the wheels that roll and the trays that spin. It’s not just a kitchen gadget anymore – it’s your secret weapon for smart storage solutions.
We’ve all been there. That moment when you realize your Costco Lazy Susan is more of a decorative piece than a functional one. Maybe it’s sitting in your kitchen corner collecting dust, or perhaps it’s filled with random items that make finding anything nearly impossible. What if we told you there’s a whole world of organization possibilities hidden right in that spinning tray? It’s time to transform that forgotten centerpiece into your ultimate storage hero.
Understanding Your Lazy Susan’s Potential
Before diving into storage strategies, let’s talk about what makes these spinning wonders so special. A typical Costco Lazy Susan isn’t just a fancy tray – it’s actually a clever solution to maximizing space while keeping things easily accessible. The key is understanding how to work with its natural movement rather than against it.
Think about it: you’ve got three distinct areas to work with. The center area, the outer rim, and those pesky corners that always seem to hold the most random stuff. When you think about it, this is like having three different storage zones all in one convenient package. The center is perfect for frequently used items, the outer edge works great for bulkier things, and the corners? Well, they’re prime real estate for those tricky items that don’t fit anywhere else.
The Golden Rule of Lazy Susan Organization
Here’s the most important thing to remember: everything needs to be within arm’s reach. That means no more digging through layers of containers or reaching across the entire tray. The whole point of a lazy Susan is accessibility, so keep that in mind when deciding what goes where.
Let’s break this down:
• Heavy items belong in the center
• Frequently used items go in the middle sections
• Items you use less often can go toward the edges
• Always keep similar items together
This might sound simple, but it’s amazing how many people forget this basic principle. You’d be surprised how much better your Lazy Susan feels once you start organizing with this mindset.
Container Selection and Placement
The right containers can make or break your Lazy Susan setup. You want something that fits perfectly, doesn’t tip over, and makes it easy to see what’s inside. Glass containers with clear labels work wonderfully, especially for food items. They let you quickly scan what’s available without having to open everything.
Consider these options:
• Stackable plastic bins for maximum vertical space
• Clear glass jars for pantry items
• Metal tins for dry goods
• Baskets for items that don’t need to be sealed
One woman I spoke with mentioned how she uses small baskets specifically for her spices. She puts them in the outer rim where they’re easy to grab, and the spinning motion means she never has to hunt for that particular spice again. It’s a game-changer.
Categorizing Your Stored Items
This is where things get really interesting. Instead of just throwing everything in there willy-nilly, try grouping items by category. This creates a system that makes sense and helps you find what you need quickly.
Some popular categorization methods include:
• Food storage: grains, snacks, condiments, etc.
• Kitchen tools: utensils, gadgets, measuring cups
• Cleaning supplies: sponges, cloths, cleaning products
• Bathroom essentials: toiletries, towels, bath supplies
• Office supplies: pens, paper, sticky notes
A man I interviewed mentioned he separates his coffee supplies into different sections. Coffee beans go in one area, ground coffee in another, and his mugs sit in their own designated spot. It’s amazing how much easier it becomes to get your morning coffee when everything has its place.
Creative Storage Solutions
Don’t limit yourself to just stacking containers. Think outside the box for some truly innovative approaches. For instance, use the center area for items that benefit from being moved around regularly. That’s perfect for things like flour, sugar, or salt.
Some clever ideas:
• Use a small rack in the center for spice bottles
• Install dividers to create separate sections
• Hang small hooks for items like measuring spoons
• Place a small tray on top for easy access to frequently used items
One customer shared how she added a small shelf on top of her Lazy Susan for things she needs daily, like her coffee maker accessories. It’s like having a second level of organization without taking up extra counter space.
Maintaining Your Lazy Susan System
The best organization system is useless if you don’t maintain it properly. Set aside five minutes each week to do a quick check-in. Make sure everything is where it should be, and if something has been moved, put it back in its proper place.
Here’s what to do:
• Check for expired items regularly
• Clean containers periodically
• Reorganize seasonal items as needed
• Keep an eye on what’s getting used most
One woman told me how she does a monthly deep clean of her Lazy Susan. She takes everything out, cleans the containers, checks expiration dates, and reorganizes based on what she’s actually using. It’s become a ritual that keeps her kitchen running smoothly.
Transforming your Costco Lazy Susan from a forgotten piece of furniture into an efficient storage solution doesn’t require expensive upgrades or complicated systems. It simply requires a shift in perspective and a willingness to organize with intention.
Remember, the beauty of the Lazy Susan lies in its simplicity and accessibility. By working with its natural movement and thinking strategically about placement, you can turn that spinning tray into your kitchen’s most valuable asset. Whether you’re storing spices, pantry items, or everyday essentials, the key is consistency and thoughtful planning.
So next time you see that Lazy Susan sitting in your kitchen, don’t just admire it. Start thinking about how you can make it work for you. Your future self will thank you for taking those first few steps toward smarter storage.
