Most people think these cupboards are pointless. Here’s how to properly use them
The small cabinets above your refrigerator are often underutilized, but with a little creativity, they can become a valuable storage asset in your kitchen. These spaces are perfect for keeping your kitchen organized, decluttered, and maximized for storage. Here are some effective ways to make the most of those often-overlooked cupboards:
1. Store Infrequently Used Appliances
One of the best uses for these cabinets is to store small kitchen appliances that you don’t use daily. Examples include:
Food Processor: If you only use your food processor occasionally for chopping or slicing, it can easily be stored up top.
Blender: Keep your blender out of sight but easily accessible for those occasional smoothie cravings.
Waffle Maker: Appliances like a waffle maker, which are used less frequently but still necessary, fit well in this space.
2. Organize with Bins or Baskets
To keep items organized and easy to access, consider using bins or baskets to group similar items together. Examples of things you can organize this way:
Baking Supplies: Store measuring cups, rolling pins, and pastry brushes in labeled bins.
Canned Goods: Use clear plastic bins to keep canned soups, sauces, and vegetables neatly organized.
Cookware Accessories: A basket is ideal for storing pot holders, oven mitts, trivets, and other small kitchen tools.
3. Utilize Vertical Space
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3. Utilize Vertical Space
Maximizing vertical space can make these cabinets even more efficient. You can add shelves or adjustable racks to store:
Cookbooks: Place cookbooks vertically to save space and create a mini library.
Spices: Install small shelves to store spice jars and create a compact, easy-to-access spice rack.
Glassware: Store seldom-used glassware or wine glasses vertically to save cabinet space elsewhere.
4. Bulk Items and Kitchen Linens
Kitchen remodeling
These cabinets are perfect for storing bulk items and kitchen linens that you don’t need every day:
Bulk Staples: Store extra pantry staples like flour, sugar, or rice in airtight containers.
Paper Towels: Keep stockpiles of paper towels and tissues in these cabinets to free up other storage areas.
Kitchen Towels: Stash kitchen towels, dishcloths, and cleaning rags for easy access.
5. Seasonal Items and Special Occasions
Use the space to store items you don’t need year-round but are essential during special occasions or certain seasons:
Holiday Decor: Store your holiday-themed dishes, table linens, and decorations until the season arrives.
Picnic Supplies: Store picnic blankets, outdoor dining accessories, and reusable plates for summer outings.
Special Serving Dishes: Keep special occasion dishes, such as fine china or elegant serving platters, safely stored until needed.
6. Regular Maintenance and Safety
Kitchen remodeling
To ensure these cabinets remain functional and safe, remember to:
Periodically Declutter: Regularly review the items in these cabinets and declutter things you no longer use or need.
Use a Step Stool: Make sure to use a sturdy step stool or ladder when accessing high cabinets for safety.
Watch for Heat Sensitivity: Be cautious with heat-sensitive items, as the area above the fridge can get warm due to the appliance’s heat.
By putting these cabinets to work, you can greatly improve your kitchen’s organization and storage capacity. It’s all about thinking creatively and using the space to store what you don’t need on a daily basis, freeing up room in your more accessible cabinets for everyday essentials.