Olde Thompson Spice Rack Review: Organization and Quality

Your kitchen countertop looks messy. Spice bottles are scattered everywhere. You waste time searching for that one spice you need while cooking dinner. Sound familiar? The Olde Thompson spice rack promises to solve these problems. But does it really work? This review will show you everything you need to know about this popular kitchen organizer.

You will learn about its features, benefits, and whether it fits your cooking style. We tested this spice rack for months to give you honest feedback. Let’s discover if this is the right storage solution for your kitchen needs.

Key Takeaways

Here are the most important things you need to know about the Olde Thompson spice rack before making your purchase decision:

Quality Construction: The Olde Thompson spice rack features high quality glass jars with durable plastic caps. The rotating base uses sturdy materials that withstand daily use. You get a product built to last for years, not months.

Space Saving Design: This compact organizer takes up minimal counter space while holding 16 or 20 jars. The rotating mechanism puts every spice at your fingertips. No more digging through cabinets to find what you need.

Pre Filled Convenience: Most models come with spices already included. You get popular seasonings like oregano, basil, garlic powder, and more. This saves you money compared to buying individual bottles.

Easy Refill System: The unique flip lid design makes refilling simple. You can pour spices directly into jars or measure specific amounts. The jars hold approximately 3 ounces each, which lasts several months.

Affordable Investment: Prices range from $30 to $65 depending on the model. When you consider the included spices and rack together, you get excellent value for your money.

What Makes Olde Thompson Stand Out

The Olde Thompson brand has served home cooks since 1944. This company understands spice storage better than most competitors. Their experience shows in every product detail.

The brand focuses on practical solutions for everyday cooking. They don’t just make pretty displays. Each spice rack works as a functional tool in your kitchen. The company tests their products to ensure they meet real cooking needs.

Quality materials set Olde Thompson apart from cheaper alternatives. They use genuine glass for jars instead of plastic. The metal components resist rust and corrosion. Even the labels stay readable after years of use.

Customer satisfaction drives their product development. The company listens to feedback and improves designs regularly. This commitment to excellence explains why so many home cooks choose Olde Thompson. Their reputation for reliability makes them a trusted kitchen brand across America.

The spice racks come in multiple styles to match different kitchen designs. You can find chrome plated models, wood accents, or classic black finishes. Each style maintains the same high quality standards. Your kitchen gets both function and visual appeal with these organizers.

Design and Build Quality

The construction quality impresses from the first touch. Solid glass jars feel substantial in your hand. They won’t crack easily like thin glass competitors use. The weight distribution keeps the rack stable on countertops.

The rotating base moves smoothly without wobbling. Quality bearings allow effortless spinning with one finger. You can access any spice quickly without moving the entire rack. This lazy Susan design proves more efficient than fixed shelves.

Chrome plating on metal models resists fingerprints and smudges. The finish maintains its shine even with frequent handling. Stainless steel options provide modern appeal with excellent durability. Wood accented versions add warmth to traditional kitchens.

Jar caps seal tightly to keep spices fresh longer. The flip lid mechanism works smoothly after thousands of uses. One side dispenses through small holes for shaking. The other side opens fully for measuring spoons. This dual function eliminates the need for separate containers.

Labels on lids use clear, bold text that’s easy to read. The black letters stand out against light backgrounds. You can identify spices at a glance while cooking. These labels withstand moisture and cleaning without fading.

The overall footprint measures approximately 10 inches in diameter. Height varies by model but typically reaches 12 inches. This compact size fits most countertops without crowding other appliances. The vertical design maximizes storage in limited space.

Capacity and Storage Options

The standard Olde Thompson orbit rack holds 16 glass jars. Each jar contains about 3 ounces of spices. This capacity suits most home cooking needs perfectly. You get enough space for essential seasonings without excess.

Larger models accommodate 20 jars for serious cooks. These versions work well if you enjoy international cuisines. The extra capacity means less frequent refilling trips. You can keep specialty spices on hand for various recipes.

The two tier design separates jars visually. Top and bottom rows rotate together on the same base. This arrangement prevents jars from blocking each other. You see every label clearly from any angle.

Jar dimensions fit standard spice quantities from grocery stores. Refilling becomes simple when replacement sizes match perfectly. You avoid the frustration of spices not fitting your containers. Most popular brands pour directly into these jars.

Some users appreciate having empty jars available for custom blends. You can create your own seasoning mixes and store them properly. The uniform jar sizes maintain the neat appearance of your rack. Personal recipes deserve the same quality storage as store bought spices.

The compact footprint means no cabinet reorganization required. The rack sits on your counter where you actually cook. Everything stays within arm’s reach during meal preparation. This accessibility saves time and reduces cooking stress significantly.

Top 3 Alternatives for Olde Thompson Spice Rack

Rotating Mechanism Performance

The lazy Susan base rotates 360 degrees smoothly. You can spin it in either direction without resistance. This fluid motion makes finding spices quick and easy. No sticking or catching interrupts your cooking flow.

Ball bearing construction ensures long term reliability. Cheap alternatives use simple plastic pivots that wear out quickly. The quality bearings in Olde Thompson racks last for years. Your investment maintains performance over time.

The rotation stays quiet during use. You won’t hear grinding or squeaking sounds. This silent operation feels premium compared to noisy competitors. The kitchen remains peaceful even during busy meal prep.

Stability while rotating impresses users consistently. Jars don’t fall or tip when spinning the rack. The weight distribution keeps everything secure. You can spin it quickly without worrying about accidents.

The base diameter provides excellent balance on countertops. Even on slightly uneven surfaces, the rack stays upright. The wide footprint prevents tipping from light bumps. This stability matters in busy kitchens with multiple cooks.

Maintenance requires minimal effort to keep rotation smooth. Occasionally wiping the base removes any dust buildup. The mechanism doesn’t need lubrication or special care. Simple cleaning maintains optimal performance indefinitely.

Jar Quality and Functionality

Clear glass construction lets you see spice levels at a glance. You know when refills are needed without opening jars. This transparency helps with inventory management. Monitoring your spice supply becomes effortless.

The glass material proves non reactive with spices. Unlike plastic, it won’t absorb colors or odors. Strong spices like curry powder don’t stain the jars. Each spice maintains its pure flavor without contamination.

Mouth openings accommodate standard measuring spoons easily. You can scoop spices directly without spilling. The wide opening also simplifies refilling from larger containers. Functionality meets convenience in this thoughtful design.

The flip lid system works brilliantly for different needs. Shake spices through holes for light seasoning. Open fully for measuring larger amounts. This versatility eliminates fumbling with multiple containers while cooking.

Caps seal airtight to preserve freshness. Your spices stay potent longer than open shelf storage. The secure closure prevents moisture from ruining contents. Protection from air and humidity extends usable life significantly.

Cleaning jars takes minimal effort when needed. The glass goes in the dishwasher safely. Caps usually clean easily by hand. Maintaining hygiene standards for food storage stays simple.

Included Spices and Variety

Most Olde Thompson racks arrive pre filled with popular spices. You typically get basil, oregano, thyme, and other cooking essentials. This starter collection covers basic recipe requirements. New cooks especially appreciate this comprehensive beginning.

Common seasonings included are garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper. You also receive paprika, cayenne pepper, and chili powder. The selection represents spices used in everyday American cooking. Most home recipes need several of these ingredients.

Some models include specialty blends like Italian seasoning or poultry seasoning. These pre mixed combinations save preparation time. You can season dishes with one jar instead of multiple spices. Convenience meets flavor in these thoughtful additions.

The quality of included spices meets acceptable standards. They aren’t gourmet grade but work well for regular cooking. Freshness levels are reasonable at time of delivery. You get usable products, not old inventory sitting in warehouses.

Label identification helps you learn about unfamiliar spices. Each jar clearly states its contents. New cooks can expand their seasoning knowledge gradually. The organized display encourages culinary experimentation.

However, serious cooks often replace the included spices with preferred brands. The included selection serves as placeholders until you stock your favorites. Think of them as bonus items rather than the main value. The rack itself remains the primary purchase benefit.

Space Efficiency on Countertops

The vertical design maximizes storage in minimal footprint. Traditional spice cabinets waste horizontal space unnecessarily. This tower approach uses height instead of width. Your counter space opens up for other cooking needs.

Corner placement works perfectly with round rotating racks. You can utilize awkward spaces that other organizers can’t fit. The 360 degree rotation means no back corner becomes unreachable. Every position on your counter works equally well.

Compared to scattered individual bottles, the space savings are dramatic. Multiple loose containers spread across counters create clutter. The unified rack contains everything in one neat location. Your kitchen immediately looks more organized and professional.

The compact dimensions leave room for other appliances. You can still use your coffee maker, toaster, and other daily tools. The spice rack doesn’t dominate your workspace. Balance between storage and working area stays optimal.

Some users place racks inside cabinets if counter space is limited. The rotating feature still works well in this location. You can spin the rack even with limited clearance above. Flexibility in placement adds to overall value.

Visibility remains excellent regardless of placement. The tiered design ensures every jar label shows clearly. You don’t need to move items to see what’s available. Quick identification speeds up your cooking process significantly.

Ease of Use During Cooking

One hand operation makes cooking more efficient. You can hold a pot with one hand and grab spice with the other. The rotation requires minimal effort or attention. Multitasking becomes easier with this accessible design.

The flip lid system works while wearing oven mitts. You don’t need precise finger dexterity to operate caps. This matters when handling hot pans simultaneously. Safety and convenience combine in this practical feature.

No bending or reaching into cabinets saves time and energy. Everything sits at comfortable working height on counters. Your cooking flow stays smooth without interruptions. Efficiency improves when tools are within easy reach.

The clear labels prevent seasoning mistakes. You won’t accidentally grab cumin instead of cinnamon. Quick visual confirmation avoids recipe disasters. Accuracy matters when flavoring dishes properly.

Measuring spices directly from jars reduces dirty dishes. You can add seasonings without transferring to separate containers. This streamlined process means less cleanup after cooking. Simplicity enhances the overall cooking experience.

The compact size allows placement near your main cooking area. You can position it beside the stove for immediate access. Proximity reduces steps during meal preparation. Small efficiency gains add up over multiple meals.

Refilling and Maintenance

Refilling jars requires no special tools or skills. Simply remove caps and pour in new spices. The wide mouth opening prevents spills during transfer. You can refill directly from store bought containers.

Cost savings from refilling versus buying new pre filled jars are significant. Bulk spices cost less than multiple small bottles. Over time, you save money while reducing plastic waste. Environmental and economic benefits align perfectly.

The glass jars clean thoroughly between different spices. You can reuse them for various seasonings without flavor mixing. Hot water and soap remove residue completely. Hygiene standards stay high with proper cleaning.

Labels remain readable through years of use. The printed text resists fading from light exposure. You don’t need to relabel jars constantly. This durability saves effort in long term maintenance.

The rotating mechanism needs occasional wiping to remove dust. Simply turn the base upside down and wipe clean. No disassembly or complex maintenance required. Simplicity keeps the rack functioning optimally.

Replacement jars are available if breakage occurs. The standard sizes make finding matches easy. You don’t need to replace the entire rack for one broken jar. Individual component replacement extends overall product life.

Price Value Analysis

The initial investment ranges from thirty to sixty five dollars typically. This price includes the rack and filled jars. Compared to buying a rack plus sixteen individual spice bottles separately, you save money. The bundle pricing offers genuine value.

Long term costs remain low with refilling capability. You can use the rack for years without additional major purchases. Quality construction means no replacement needed soon. Your investment pays dividends over extended use.

Compared to premium spice organizers costing over one hundred dollars, this offers excellent value. You get most features at a fraction of the price. Budget conscious shoppers appreciate this balanced approach. Quality doesn’t require excessive spending.

Free spice refills programs from some retailers add extra value. Certain stores offer complimentary refills for life with purchase. Check if this benefit applies to your preferred shopping location. Additional perks increase overall worth significantly.

The space saving benefits translate to indirect value. Organized kitchens function more efficiently. Time saved during cooking has real worth. Reduced stress from clutter improves daily quality of life.

Durability means you won’t buy replacement racks frequently. Cheap alternatives break within months, requiring repurchase. Quality construction saves money over years of use. Initial price matters less than total cost of ownership.

Pros and Cons

Advantages include excellent space efficiency for small kitchens. The rotating design provides quick access to all spices. Quality glass jars maintain spice freshness effectively. Pre filled jars offer immediate usability after purchase.

The sturdy construction withstands daily kitchen use reliably. Smooth rotation makes finding spices effortless. Clear labels prevent confusion during cooking. Compact footprint fits most counter spaces easily.

Refillable jars reduce long term costs significantly. The attractive design complements various kitchen styles. Easy maintenance requires minimal effort. Multiple size options suit different household needs.

Disadvantages include limited capacity for serious spice collectors. Some users find included spices mediocre quality. The round footprint doesn’t fit narrow spaces well. Countertop placement uses valuable work surface.

Jars might be too small for frequently used spices. The rotating base can collect dust underneath. Some models cost more than basic alternatives. Replacement jars may require specific sizing.

Overall balance leans heavily positive for most users. The benefits outweigh limitations for typical home cooking. Serious chefs might need additional storage solutions. Average households find this system perfectly adequate.

Customer Experience and Feedback

Users consistently praise the organizational benefits. Many report cleaner, more functional kitchens after purchase. The ease of finding spices reduces cooking frustration. Customer satisfaction ratings typically exceed 4.5 out of 5 stars.

Common compliments mention smooth rotation and sturdy build quality. Users appreciate the space savings on crowded counters. The visual appeal of organized spices gets frequent positive mentions. Many buyers purchase additional racks for gift giving.

Negative feedback occasionally mentions jar size limitations. Some users wish for larger capacity options. A few customers report included spices arriving stale. Quality control issues appear rare but do occur occasionally.

The flip lid mechanism receives mixed reviews. Most users love the dual function design. Some find it unnecessary complexity for simple tasks. Personal preference plays a role in this feature assessment.

Long term users report years of reliable service. The racks maintain functionality after extensive use. This durability confirmation validates the quality construction. Real world testing beats marketing claims every time.

Gift recipients frequently express appreciation for these racks. New homeowners find them particularly useful. The practical nature makes this a thoughtful present. Positive reception encourages repeat gift purchases.

Best Uses and Ideal Users

Home cooks benefit most from these organizers. If you prepare meals regularly, this improves efficiency. Daily cooking routines become smoother with proper organization. Time savings add up over weeks and months.

Small kitchens gain maximum advantage from space efficiency. Limited counter space demands smart storage solutions. The vertical design solves cramped workspace problems. Urban apartment dwellers particularly appreciate this feature.

Beginning cooks enjoy the pre filled convenience. Starting with essential spices removes guesswork. Learning which seasonings to keep becomes easier. The organized display encourages culinary exploration.

Gift givers find these racks perfect for various occasions. Weddings, housewarmings, and holidays all suit this practical present. The universal usefulness appeals to diverse recipients. Thoughtful functionality makes impressive gifts.

Minimalists appreciate the clean, organized appearance. Reducing visible clutter aligns with simplified living goals. One contained unit beats scattered individual bottles. Visual calm contributes to peaceful home environments.

Budget conscious shoppers get excellent value here. Quality construction at reasonable prices appeals to practical buyers. Long term durability justifies the initial investment. Smart spending means buying right the first time.

Comparison with Similar Products

Kamenstein spice racks offer similar rotating designs at comparable prices. Their lifetime free spice refill program adds significant value. However, Olde Thompson often features superior build quality. The choice depends on priorities between refills and construction.

Cheap plastic alternatives cost less initially but lack durability. They often break within months of regular use. False economy makes these poor long term investments. Spending slightly more pays off through years of service.

Premium wooden racks offer beautiful aesthetics at higher prices. They work well for visible display in luxury kitchens. Functionality remains similar despite increased cost. Budget and style preferences guide this decision.

Drawer organizers provide hidden storage alternatives. They save counter space but reduce accessibility. Opening drawers adds steps to cooking process. Trade offs exist between visibility and surface area.

Wall mounted options maximize space efficiency differently. They keep counters completely clear for working. Installation requirements and permanence create different considerations. Flexibility versus space savings requires personal evaluation.

DIY solutions can work but usually lack polish. Custom builds take time and effort most people prefer avoiding. Commercial products offer tested reliability and warranty protection. Convenience often justifies reasonable expense.

Installation and Setup

No assembly required for most Olde Thompson models. The rack arrives completely put together. You simply remove packaging and place on counter. Immediate use begins without tools or instructions.

Positioning considerations include proximity to cooking area. Place within comfortable reach of your stove. Ensure adequate clearance for rotation. Test spinning before finalizing location.

Cleaning before first use is recommended. Wipe down jars and rack with damp cloth. Remove any manufacturing residue or dust. This simple step ensures hygienic food storage.

Arranging spices by frequency of use improves efficiency. Place most used seasonings in front positions. This customization reduces search time during cooking. Personal organization systems work best for individual needs.

Included spice inventory should be checked upon arrival. Verify all jars are filled and sealed properly. Report any damage or missing items immediately. Quality control catches most issues but verification helps.

Optimal lighting near the rack improves label reading. Natural light or bright task lighting works well. Clear visibility reduces mistakes and frustration. Small environmental adjustments enhance usability significantly.

Durability and Longevity

Glass jars resist wear better than plastic alternatives. They won’t yellow or cloud over time. The material maintains clarity through years of use. This longevity preserves the attractive appearance indefinitely.

Metal components show excellent corrosion resistance. Chrome plating protects against moisture and kitchen humidity. The finish stays attractive through daily handling. Protective coatings do their job effectively.

Rotating mechanism maintains smooth operation long term. Quality bearings don’t wear out from regular use. The lazy Susan base continues functioning after thousands of spins. Engineering quality shows in lasting performance.

Labels remain legible through extended periods. The text doesn’t fade from light exposure or handling. You won’t need replacement stickers after months. Permanent identification solves long term organization needs.

Common failure points are minimal with proper care. Dropping jars causes most damage issues. Normal kitchen use doesn’t stress components excessively. Reasonable handling ensures years of service.

Warranty coverage varies by retailer and model. Check specific terms before purchasing. Many sellers offer satisfaction guarantees. Protection against defects provides peace of mind.

Cleaning and Care Tips

Daily maintenance requires only quick wiping. Use damp cloth on jars and rack surfaces. This prevents dust and residue buildup. Regular light cleaning beats occasional deep scrubbing.

Dishwasher safe jars simplify thorough cleaning. Remove caps before loading into machine. Hand wash caps to preserve integrity. This division of cleaning methods works efficiently.

Avoid harsh chemicals on metal finishes. Mild soap and water clean adequately. Abrasive cleaners can damage protective coatings. Gentle cleaning maintains appearance longer.

Rotate cleaning tasks by addressing one section weekly. Deep clean a few jars at a time. This approach prevents overwhelming cleaning sessions. Gradual maintenance stays manageable easily.

Check seals periodically to ensure airtight performance. Replace caps if they crack or loosen. Maintaining proper seals protects spice freshness. Small preventive steps avoid larger problems.

Base cleaning underneath the rack prevents sticky buildup. Lift and wipe the counter surface regularly. This prevents the mechanism from getting gummed up. Clean surfaces ensure continued smooth rotation.

Environmental Considerations

Reusable glass jars reduce plastic waste significantly. One rack replaces dozens of disposable bottles over time. Environmental impact decreases with durable products. Sustainable choices matter for our planet.

Refilling capability extends product life indefinitely. You avoid throwing away containers repeatedly. This reduces landfill contributions substantially. Small personal choices create collective environmental benefits.

Quality construction means fewer replacement purchases. Durable goods use resources more efficiently. Manufacturing fewer items reduces industrial environmental impact. Buying quality supports sustainability goals.

Recyclable materials make eventual disposal responsible. Glass and metal recycle better than mixed plastics. End of life considerations matter for complete environmental assessment. Responsible disposal completes the sustainability cycle.

Local refill options reduce shipping emissions. Buying bulk spices locally cuts transportation impact. Supporting local businesses strengthens community economies. Multiple benefits align with environmental consciousness.

Reduced packaging from bulk purchases helps environment. Individual spice bottles create excessive waste. Consolidated storage solutions offer ecological advantages. Thoughtful consumption benefits everyone long term.

Frequently Asked Questions

How many jars does the Olde Thompson spice rack hold?

The standard Orbit model holds 16 glass jars. Larger versions accommodate 20 jars for expanded storage. The two tier rotating design maximizes capacity in compact footprint. Both sizes work well for typical home cooking needs. Choose based on your spice collection size and available counter space.

Are the spice jars dishwasher safe?

Yes, the glass jars are dishwasher safe for easy cleaning. Remove the caps before loading into dishwasher. Hand washing caps preserves their integrity longer. The glass withstands high heat without damage. This convenience simplifies maintenance significantly for busy households.

Can I refill the jars with my own spices?

Absolutely, the jars are designed for easy refilling. Simply remove caps and pour in your preferred spices. The wide mouth opening prevents spills during transfer. You can customize your collection with favorite brands. Refilling saves money compared to buying new pre filled containers.

Does the rotating base work smoothly over time?

The quality ball bearing mechanism maintains smooth rotation for years. Regular light cleaning keeps the base spinning effortlessly. Users report continued smooth operation after extensive use. The durable construction resists wear from daily spinning. Proper care ensures long term reliable performance.

What size are the individual spice jars?

Each jar holds approximately 3 ounces of spices. This capacity suits most cooking needs without frequent refilling. The dimensions fit standard grocery store spice quantities. You can refill directly from common packaging sizes. The generous size reduces how often you need replacements.

Is the rack stable on countertops?

Yes, the wide base provides excellent stability. The weight distribution prevents tipping from normal use. Even on slightly uneven surfaces, the rack stays upright. The design accounts for busy kitchen environments. You can spin it confidently without worrying about accidents.

How much counter space does it require?

The footprint measures approximately 10 inches in diameter. Height varies by model but typically reaches 12 inches. This compact size fits most countertops comfortably. The vertical design uses space efficiently. Compared to scattered bottles, it actually saves surface area.

Are replacement jars available if one breaks?

Yes, replacement jars are available from various retailers. The standard sizes make finding matches relatively easy. You don’t need to replace the entire rack. Individual component replacement extends overall product life. Keep this in mind for long term ownership planning.

What spices typically come included?

Common seasonings include basil, oregano, thyme, and black pepper. You also get garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika. Many models include chili powder and cayenne pepper. Italian seasoning and other blends often round out collections. The selection covers essential everyday cooking needs.

How do I clean the rotating mechanism?

Simply wipe the base with damp cloth periodically. Remove any dust or residue that accumulates. The mechanism doesn’t require special lubrication. Basic cleaning maintains optimal performance indefinitely. This minimal maintenance keeps the rack functioning smoothly for years.

Last update on 2026-02-03 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API