Spice racks straddle the line between cooking essential, kitchen accessory and pantry staple, which is why there are dozens of styles to choose from.
When narrowing down a selection, ask some key questions: do I want the spice rack displayed or will it be kept in a cupboard? How often will I be reaching for it every day?
Decide on what elements are most important in your kitchen and then browse the multiple options below. Home chefs worth their salt always know where their salt is.
CUSTOMIZED AND CANADIAN-MADE
We love these stylish bamboo-topped glass jars (with a silicone seal) from The Neat Life Shop on Etsy. To order, choose the number of jars you need (minimum six, all the way up to 48) and specify what labels you will need (i.e. kosher salt, garlic powder, thyme).
Who it's ideal for: Home cooks with an open-concept kitchen.
Why we're endorsing it: Design, usefulness, Canadian-made, customized.
Where it could use improvements: Spices not included.
Size/weight/dimensions: 6 oz (177 ml); 2.55" W x 3.15" H.
(Stocked up on plain jars that could use a boost? These onyx matte labels are waterproof and look straight out of a fancy home decor catalogue. Minimum 20 per order; the options for spices are pre-set by package.)
A SIMPLE SPICE DRAWER
Keep the most-used flavours of your kitchen closest to your cooking space with a drawer organizer. This Compact Spice Drawer Organizer from OXO fits nine “regular size” jars (which can be 3 oz to 5oz) and has a non-slip coating and slightly angled slope, making it easy to grab what's needed, even in a mid-recipe flurry of activity.
Who it's ideal for: Anyone who uses the same rotation of spices often.
Why we're endorsing it: Price, brand trust, size.
Where it could use improvements: Fits a small selection.
Size/weight/dimensions: 16" L x 4" W x 2.5" H.
MAGNETIC AND MODERN
This sleek and minimalist magnetic spice rack caught our attention because it isn't your typical stainless steel look. It can stick to any metal surface (including a stainless steel fridge) and is designed and made in Japan.
Who it's ideal for: Anyone looking for a modern rack.
Why we're endorsing it: User reviews (and photos), price, design.
Where it could use improvements: Requires a metal surface.
Size/weight/dimensions: 10.9 x 24.4 x 8.4 cm.
TIERED SPICE ORGANIZER
As mentioned in our multi-purpose organizer story, The Home Edit has become the go-to Instagram inspiration account for setting up a pantry. The go-to iDesign includes this tiered and expandable clear spice rack.
Who it's ideal for: Anyone who wants to show off their spice bottles.
Why we're endorsing it: Price, mix-and-match options with other iDesign products.
Where it could use improvements: Depending on size of bottles, may only fit two on a shelf.
Size/weight/dimensions: 21.6 x 25.4 x 8.9 cm.
(For a three-tier rack from a different brand that is half the price, check out this coated steel option from Bed Bath & Beyond.)
STARTING FROM SCRATCH
For those starting a spice collection and not sure where to start, this loaded Kamenstein turning rack includes 20 jars filled with spices like oregano, rosemary and fennel seeds.
Who it's ideal for: Someone starting to outfit their kitchen (like a student).
Why we're endorsing it: Convenience, user reviews.
Where it could use improvements: Spice options are pre-set (so no customizing) and a big note — the additional five-year supply is not applicable to Canadians.
Size/weight/dimensions: 21.6 x 21.6 x 34.3 cm.
(For a similar round spice rack, but without the spices, this stainless steel, 16-jar option is on sale on Amazon right now.)
A CLASSIC HORIZONTAL RACK
For a cook who uses a fair amount of different spices on a regular basis, this no-fuss wire rack includes 18 jars (with shaker tops) and 48 pre-made labels.
Who it's ideal for: Someone who needs a lot of options close at hand.
Why we're endorsing it: Simplicity and user reviews.
Where it could use improvements: Spices not included. The labels are pre-made, so there’s no option to customize.
Size/weight/dimensions: 21.6 x 21.6 x 34.3 cm.
SPICE TOWER
For a spice rack that works as a kitchen accent, this unique carousel tower has a dozen 5 oz, BPA-free acrylic jars (with shaker lids) on a turntable, as well as 48 blank labels. The stackable jars keep it compact and the carousel ensures every jar is accessible without having to knock everything over to get to the paprika.
Who it's ideal for: Someone who wants a unique jar that’s still usable.
Why we're endorsing it: Design and uniqueness.
Where it could use improvements: Spices not included.
Size/weight/dimensions: 7.25" D x 10" H.
A RACK MADE FOR A CUPBOARD
This D-shape Spice Spinner All-Star 40-spice Dual Spin Cabinet Organizer sums it up — this rack can slide into a cupboard without blocking the door from closing. We like that it can include taller bottles in the middle and fits so many standard-size bottles in one spot.
Who it's ideal for: Someone who wants to keep spices contained in a kitchen cupboard.
Why we're endorsing it: Practicality and size.
Where it could use improvements: Spices not included.
Size/weight/dimensions: 13" L x 10.83" W x 1.57" H.
Need to fill (or refill) those jars? This Simply Organic Ultimate Organic Starter Spice Gift Set includes nutmeg, curry powder, black peppery, rosemary, dill weed, cayenne and more.
