Kitchen storage might not be the most exciting topic, but if you’ve invested in quality cookware, it’s definitely worth paying attention to how you keep it in good condition over time. Did you know that even one bad storage habit can damage valuable coatings, warp your pots, or worse, cause harmful substances to leak during cooking?
Southern Living recently spoke with expert Jordan Nathan, founder and CEO of Caraway, who highlighted the most common storage mistakes that can ruin your pots and pans. According to him, no matter how perfect the design and performance, improper storage can quickly shorten the life of your cookware.
“Nothing damages cookware performance faster than injuries caused by improper storage,” Nathan warns.
So, let’s dive into the common but risky mistakes many of us make—and discover stylish, practical alternatives even for the smallest kitchens.
1. The #1 No-Go Zone: The Oven
The oven might seem like a perfect spot for bulky or rarely used items, but it’s actually one of the worst places to store your pans, bowls, or oversized pots.
“While it might seem like a handy hiding spot, the oven’s extreme temperatures can damage non-stick coatings and surface finishes over time,” Nathan explains. “Plus, it’s a safety hazard if you forget pots are inside when preheating.”
The fix: Make the most of vertical storage! Nathan suggests using the inside of cabinet doors, narrow gaps, or unused wall spaces with smart organizers to keep your cookware safe and accessible.
2. The Surprising Culprit: The Drawer Under the Oven
Many don’t realize this drawer was designed to keep food warm, not for storage. Storing your cookware here means they’re exposed to heat every time you bake.
“Heat from the warming drawer shortens cookware lifespan,” Nathan cautions. This is especially risky for pots that heat empty repeatedly, which can cause warping, cracking, or even release harmful substances.
The fix: Start fresh with a good vertical organizer. These protect your cookware from heat and prevent the classic “avalanche” effect when one pot topples the rest.
3. The Biggest Mistake: Stacking Pans
Whether in a cabinet, drawer, or on a shelf, stacking your pans is a serious no-no. Nathan calls this the biggest storage mistake you can make:
“If I had to pick one mistake, it’s stacking. We invest in quality cookware to make cooking healthier and easier—but stacking can quickly ruin that,” he says.
This is especially dangerous for PTFE-coated (classic non-stick) pans. These coatings are scratch-sensitive, and damage can release harmful chemicals during cooking. To avoid this, always store your pans separately, never stacked.
+2 Smart Tips for Thoughtful Storage
- Don’t hide everything! If your cookware looks great, why not make it part of your kitchen style? Nathan says, “If you’ve invested in quality, why not show it off?”
- Plan ahead: Observe how you use your kitchen and tailor your storage accordingly. A good system not only keeps things tidy but also makes cooking faster and more enjoyable.
Every pot deserves a good home
Whether it’s a lid holder, wall-mounted pan rack, or cabinet door organizer, there are plenty of stylish and smart solutions today. The key is to avoid storing cookware in the oven or stacked, and to appreciate your kitchen treasures not just when cooking, but also when storing them.
