Small kitchen cabinets located above your refrigerator can be a hidden gem of storage potential when utilized effectively. These often-overlooked spaces can help you declutter your kitchen, keep items organized, and maximize your kitchen’s storage capacity.
In this article, we’ll explore various ways to make the most of those cabinets and offer practical examples of how to use them efficiently.
1. Store Infrequently Used Appliances
One of the most common uses for the cabinets above your fridge is storing 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, store it here.
Blender: Keep your blender out of sight but easily accessible for those occasional smoothie cravings.
Waffle Maker: Reserve this cabinet for appliances like a waffle maker that are used less frequently but are still essential.
2. Organize with Bins or Baskets
To make items more accessible and keep the cabinets tidy, consider using bins or baskets. Examples of items to organize this way include:
Baking Supplies: Group items like measuring cups, rolling pins, and pastry brushes in labeled bins.
Canned Goods: Use clear plastic bins to organize canned goods like soups, sauces, or vegetables.
Cookware Accessories: Keep pot holders, oven mitts, and trivets in a basket for easy access.
3. Utilize Vertical Space
Make the most of the vertical space by installing additional shelves or adjustable racks. Here are some examples of what you can store:
Cookbooks: Place cookbooks vertically to save space and showcase your collection.
Spices: Install small shelves to store your spice jars, creating a compact spice rack.
Glassware: Store seldom-used glassware or wine glasses vertically on shelves.
4. Bulk Items and Kitchen Linens
Small kitchen cabinets above the fridge are an excellent place to store bulk items and kitchen linens:
Bulk Staples: Keep extra pantry staples, such as flour, sugar, or rice, in airtight containers.
Paper Towels: Stock up on paper towels and tissues in this space to free up other areas.
Kitchen Towels: Store kitchen towels, dishcloths, and cleaning rags here for easy access.
5. Seasonal Items and Special Occasions
Use the cabinets to store items that you only need during specific seasons or special occasions:
Holiday Decor: Keep your holiday-themed serving dishes, table linens, and decorations here until needed.
Picnic Supplies: Store picnic blankets, outdoor dining accessories, and reusable plates for warm-weather outings.
Special Serving Dishes: Reserve space for special occasion dishes, like fine china or elegant serving platters.
6. Regular Maintenance and Safety
To ensure the cabinets remain functional and safe, remember to:
Periodically review the contents of the cabinets and declutter items you no longer need.
Use a sturdy step stool or ladder when accessing items, ensuring your safety.
Be cautious with heat-sensitive items, as the space above the fridge can get warm due to the appliance’s heat.
