Storing garlic, shallots, and onions is one little problem in our kitchen. Like this reader, we've been looking for a way to store them that doesn't leave papery garlic skins all over the counter. Here's one clever way to store garlic, from Martha Stewart.

Bamboo steamers can be so multi-functional in the kitchen! Last fall we mentioned another tip from Martha: Use a large bamboo steamer to transport pies.

Now there's this tip from Martha: Store garlic and shallots in a small bamboo steamer basket. The basket is well-ventilated, but still protects the bulbs from light and helps keep them cool. If you use a large steamer basket you could even store garlic and shallots on top, and a few onions underneath.

• Read the full tip: Steamer Storage Bin at Martha Stewart

Related: Root Vegetable Storage: Vegetable Store Bo

(Image: Martha Stewart)