What to Store in These Cabinets:
- Seasonal Kitchenware: Do you have holiday-themed dishware or party items you only use once a year? Storing these in the cabinet above the fridge is a smart choice. It keeps them out of the way but still accessible when you need them.
- Bulk Pantry Items: Stocking up on large or extra non-perishable items like flour, sugar, or cereal boxes can eat up valuable pantry space. This top cupboard can be the perfect spot to stow bulk items that you want to keep fresh but don’t use daily.
- Rarely Used Appliances: If you have small kitchen gadgets that you don’t frequently use—like a bread maker, blender, or waffle iron—this is a good place to store them. They are out of the way but within arm’s reach for when you need them.
- Cookbooks: If you’re running out of space for cookbooks, the cupboard above the fridge offers a great solution. Since these aren’t items you need daily, keeping them up high ensures they’re safe but not taking up counter space.
- Baking Trays and Pans: Vertical storage for items like baking sheets, muffin tins, or cutting boards can be ideal in these overhead cupboards. They slide in and out easily, and you can avoid cluttering other areas of your kitchen.
- Extra Dishware: For items like serving platters, large bowls, or extra glassware that you only use when hosting guests, this space is perfect. You’ll still have them on hand for special occasions without taking up everyday cupboard space.
Tips for Efficient Use of Overhead Cabinets
- Use Storage Bins or Baskets: Because these cabinets are hard to reach, organizing the contents into baskets or bins makes it easier to pull things down when needed. You won’t have to fumble with random items every time you open the doors.
- Install Shelf Dividers: Make the most of the vertical space by adding shelf dividers. This is especially helpful for storing flat items like cutting boards or cookie sheets.
- Label the Bins: If you’re placing bins or boxes in these cabinets, label them! When you’re in a hurry or standing on a step stool, knowing exactly what’s inside saves time and hassle.
- Keep a Small Step Stool Nearby: Since these cupboards are high up, a small step stool is an essential tool to have nearby. This will allow you to access the items safely and with ease.
Things to Avoid Storing Above the Fridge
While this space is incredibly useful, some items are better stored elsewhere:
- Perishable Food: Even though it’s tempting to stash bulk food items, avoid putting anything that needs consistent temperature control in these cupboards. The area above the fridge can get warmer than the rest of your kitchen.
- Heavy Appliances: Be cautious about storing heavy items, as they could be dangerous to retrieve from a high shelf.
Final Thoughts
The cupboards above your fridge can transform into practical, functional storage with a little bit of strategy. Whether you’re storing seasonal items, bulk goods, or extra dishware, this space can help you declutter the rest of your kitchen. All it takes is smart planning and a few storage solutions to maximize these hard-to-reach cabinets.
So, if you have those cupboards above your fridge, don’t let them go unused—make them work for you!
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