A well-organized home makes life so much easier, especially when everything has its designated place. If you’re anything like me, clutter can be distracting and make it hard to focus.
Over the years, I’ve found that even the most overlooked spaces in the kitchen can offer valuable storage—especially those small cupboards above the refrigerator. While they may seem too small or inconvenient, these cupboards are perfect for stashing items that don’t need to be within easy reach.
In this guide, we’ll explore practical ways to utilize these upper cabinets effectively and transform them into a hidden storage gem. So, if you’ve ever wondered what to do with the space above your fridge, keep reading for some great ideas!
Why You Shouldn’t Ignore Those Cupboards Above the Fridge
At first glance, the small cupboards over the fridge might seem a bit useless. They’re out of the way, hard to reach, and not large enough for everyday kitchen items like dishes or cups.
However, these cupboards offer hidden potential—especially for storing things you don’t need daily but still want handy. Let’s dive into some clever storage ideas.
1. Store Infrequently Used Kitchen Gadgets
One of the best ways to use the space above your fridge is by storing kitchen gadgets that you don’t use regularly. For example, do you have a blender, waffle maker, or food processor that only comes out for special occasions?
These small appliances can take up valuable counter or cupboard space, but they’re perfect for stashing in the upper cupboards above your fridge.
Because you won’t need them every day, it’s okay if they’re stored out of sight. This strategy frees up more accessible areas in your kitchen for things you use frequently.
2. Canned Goods and Baking Essentials
The upper cabinets can also be a great place to store non-perishable pantry items like canned goods, which often have long shelf lives. If you’re someone who likes to keep a stockpile of canned food, this space can serve as a backup pantry.
You don’t need to access these items often, so it’s perfectly fine if they’re a little harder to reach.
Baking ingredients, such as flour, sugar, and baking powder, are another option. If you only bake on weekends or for special occasions, these ingredients can be neatly stored above the fridge without taking up prime kitchen real estate.
3. Cookbook Storage
If you’re a fan of collecting cookbooks, you know they can take up a lot of space on kitchen counters. Rather than leaving them lying around, consider storing them in the cupboards above your fridge. This keeps your cookbooks accessible yet out of the way, and it adds an organized feel to your kitchen.
4. Spices and Pantry Items
If you’re a spice enthusiast, you likely have a lot of jars and containers in your kitchen. A small spice rack or basket can fit perfectly in these upper cabinets, helping you organize spices that aren’t used every day.
Similarly, pantry staples like rice, pasta, or dried beans can be stored here if you want to keep your main pantry less cluttered.
This approach keeps your kitchen tidy while still giving you easy access to those occasional-use items.
5. Bulk Kitchen Towels or Paper Towels
Do you tend to buy kitchen towels in bulk? Many households stock up on essentials like paper towels or kitchen towels, which can be hard to store.
The cupboard above the fridge is a great place to keep these bulk items out of the way but still within reach when needed. It’s especially convenient for households that buy in large quantities and need extra storage space.
6. Fine China and Special Occasion Items
If you have special dishware or cutlery that you only bring out for holidays and celebrations, the cupboard above your fridge is an excellent place to store these items.
Since they’re reserved for special occasions, you don’t need to access them frequently, and keeping them up high helps ensure they stay safe from accidental bumps or curious children.
By using this space for delicate items, you can avoid cluttering more accessible cabinets with things that only come out a few times a year.
Safety Considerations for Using Cupboards Above the Fridge
While the space above your fridge can be a convenient storage spot, it’s important to keep safety in mind. Here are a few tips to ensure you’re using this area effectively:
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Use a Sturdy Step Ladder: Since the cupboard is located high up, it’s essential to use a stable stool or step ladder when accessing these items. Avoid stretching or overreaching to prevent accidents.
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Don’t Store Heavy Items: Always be mindful of the weight of the items you store up there. Lifting heavy appliances or objects from a high place can lead to strain or injury. Stick to lighter items or things you can safely retrieve.
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Mind the Heat: Keep in mind that the fridge emits heat, which can make the space above it warmer than the rest of your kitchen. Avoid storing heat-sensitive items like certain foods or electronics in these cupboards.
Conclusion: Make the Most of Your Kitchen’s Hidden Space
The cupboards above your fridge may not seem like the most practical storage option, but with a little creativity, they can become one of the most functional areas of your kitchen. From storing infrequently used gadgets to organizing pantry items, there are plenty of ways to make the most of this often-overlooked space.
So, next time you find yourself looking for more storage in your kitchen, consider taking advantage of those high-up cupboards—you might be surprised at how much they can hold!
