The best way to store measuring cups is to hang them on a rail or hook inside a cabinet door for instant access, or nest them by size in a drawer with a non-slip liner to prevent scratching. For plastic cups, avoid stacking them too tightly to prevent warping; for metal and glass, group them by set to keep matching sizes together.
Store measuring cups by hanging (hook/rail), nesting in drawers (with dividers), or stacking on shelves (lids off). Keep plastic cups away from heat, metal cups dry to avoid rust, and glass cups separated with felt liners. Use pegboards for wall storage or lazy Susans for deep cabinets.
- Hanging storage: Hooks or rails inside cabinet doors or on walls keep cups visible and prevent nesting damage.
- Nesting: Stack cups smallest to largest; place a paper towel or felt circle between plastic cups to reduce scratching.
- Drawer storage: Use adjustable dividers or a dedicated utensil tray to keep cups upright and separated.
- Material considerations: Plastic cups can warp near dishwashers or ovens; store away from heat. Metal cups must be completely dry to prevent rust. Glass cups need padding to avoid chips.
1. Hang Measuring Cups for Quick Access
Hanging measuring cups is the most space-efficient method, especially in small kitchens. Install a metal rail with S-hooks inside a cabinet door or on a wall near your prep area. Alternatively, use adhesive hooks rated for 2-3 pounds on the inside of upper cabinet doors. This works best for metal and plastic cups with holes in their handles.
For a pegboard system, mount a pegboard on a backsplash or inside a pantry. Use peg hooks sized to fit the handle openings. This method keeps each cup separated, preventing scratches and making it easy to grab the one you need. Avoid hanging heavy glass measuring cups on adhesive hooks as they may fall.
2. Nest Measuring Cups by Size in Drawers
Nesting cups in a deep drawer is a classic solution. Place a non-slip drawer liner to keep them from sliding. Arrange cups from largest at the bottom to smallest on top. To prevent plastic cups from sticking or warping, place a piece of parchment paper or a felt circle between each cup. For metal cups, ensure they are completely dry before nesting to avoid moisture trapping.
If you have multiple sets, store them side by side rather than stacking different sets together. Use adjustable drawer dividers to create separate compartments for dry and liquid measuring cups. This also prevents the cups from rattling and clanking when the drawer is opened or closed.
3. Store Measuring Cups on Shelves with Lids Off
For glass or metal measuring cups with lids (like those for storage), store them on a shelf with the lids removed and placed separately. This prevents moisture from getting trapped inside and allows the cups to air out. Stack cups of the same size, but place a soft cloth or shelf liner between them to avoid scratches.
If you have a deep cabinet, use a lazy Susan to access cups at the back. Group cups by type: all dry measuring cups together, all liquid cups together. This makes it easier to find what you need without digging. For tall liquid measuring cups, store them upright in a row; do not lay them on their sides as the spout can get damaged.
4. Use a Pegboard or Wall Rack for Wall Storage
Wall storage is ideal for freeing counter and drawer space. Install a pegboard and use hooks sized to fit the measuring cup handles. Arrange cups in a single row for easy visibility. This works particularly well for metal and plastic cups. For glass cups, ensure the hooks are sturdy and the cups are not heavy enough to cause the pegboard to bow.
Another option is a magnetic strip for metal measuring cups. Attach a strong magnetic strip to the wall or inside a cabinet, and stick the cups to it. This keeps them perfectly organized and instantly accessible. However, this only works for cups made of ferromagnetic stainless steel; test with a magnet first.
5. Dedicated Drawer Organizer for Measuring Cups
A custom drawer organizer with compartments is the most organized method. Use a bamboo or plastic utensil tray with slots wide enough for measuring cups. Arrange cups upright, with each compartment holding one cup. This prevents nesting scratches and makes it obvious if a cup is missing.
If you have a shallow drawer, consider a tiered organizer that angles the cups for easy viewing. For deep drawers, use stackable inserts. Label the compartments with the cup size using a label maker or washi tape. This system is especially helpful if you own multiple sets of measuring cups.
Pro Tips
- Store plastic measuring cups away from the dishwasher’s heat vent to prevent warping.
- Place a silica gel packet in the drawer with metal measuring cups to absorb moisture and prevent rust.
- Use a binder clip on the handle of a measuring cup to hang it on a hook if the handle hole is too small.
- For nested sets, store a small piece of felt or cork between each cup to avoid friction marks.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Storing plastic measuring cups directly under a heat source like an oven can cause them to warp and become inaccurate.
- Leaving metal measuring cups wet before storing leads to rust spots; always dry them thoroughly with a towel.
- Stacking glass measuring cups without padding can result in chips or cracks from contact with other utensils.
- Overcrowding measuring cups in a drawer without dividers causes them to shift and scratch each other over time.
FAQ
Can I store measuring cups in the dishwasher?
It’s not recommended for long-term storage because the heat and moisture can damage plastic cups and cause metal cups to rust. Instead, wash and dry them immediately, then store in a dry place.
How should I store measuring cups with odd shapes?
Odd-shaped cups (like those with angled handles) are best hung on hooks or stored in a deep drawer with custom dividers. Avoid forcing them into standard slots as they may not fit securely.
Is it okay to stack glass measuring cups?
Yes, but place a soft cloth or felt pad between each cup to prevent scratching and chipping. Do not stack more than three high to avoid instability.
The Bottom Line
No matter which storage method you choose, the key is to keep measuring cups dry, separated, and easily accessible. A little upfront organization saves time and frustration when you’re in the middle of a recipe. Evaluate your kitchen space and cup materials to pick the best system for your needs.
