There’s something incredibly satisfying about a home that’s well-organized, where every item has its rightful place. For many of us, having a neat and tidy living space isn’t just a matter of aesthetics—it’s a way to bring order to our lives and help us focus better. This sense of order extends beyond the visible parts of the home to areas that are less immediately obvious, such as inside the fridge or even those seemingly impractical cupboards above it.
Growing up, I didn’t pay much attention to organization. My priorities were far removed from keeping things orderly. However, my mother’s influence changed all that. She was a natural when it came to keeping our home in pristine condition. Her dedication to cleanliness and structure made it seem like our house was perpetually ready for a photo shoot for a real estate listing.
Over the years, she passed down a treasure trove of organizational wisdom, including some brilliant tips for maximizing the use of those small cupboards often found above refrigerators. If you have such cupboards in your kitchen and have ever wondered what to do with them, you’re in for a treat. Here are some practical and creative ways to make the most of this underutilized storage space.
Understanding the Space
At first glance, the cupboard space above a refrigerator might seem like a lost cause. It’s often awkwardly placed, hard to reach, and not spacious enough to store large or frequently used items. Placing everyday dishes or cups up there is impractical, and it might feel like there’s not much you can do with it. But before you write it off, consider how this space can be transformed into a functional storage solution for less commonly used items.
1. Storage for Infrequently Used Kitchen Gadgets
One of the best uses for these high-up cupboards is as a home for kitchen appliances and gadgets that don’t see daily use. Think about those bulky items like food processors, waffle makers, or blenders that only come out on special occasions. Stashing them up high keeps them out of the way while still being accessible when you need them. Plus, this frees up valuable counter or lower cupboard space for the items you use every day.
2. A Safe Haven for Canned Goods and Baking Supplies
Canned foods and baking essentials are perfect candidates for this space. Most canned products have a long shelf life, so it’s not a big deal if they’re tucked away and forgotten for a while. Similarly, baking supplies like flour, sugar, and sprinkles—which you might only reach for on weekends—fit nicely in these cupboards. Use clear, labeled containers to keep things organized and easy to grab when the baking mood strikes.
3. Cookbooks Galore
If you’re like me, you probably have a collection of cookbooks that you don’t know what to do with. Instead of letting them clutter your kitchen counters, consider storing them in the cupboard above your fridge. This way, they’re out of the way but still within reach when you need to consult a recipe. It’s a great way to keep your kitchen looking tidy and your cookbooks safe from spills and stains.
4. A Pantry Extension or Spice Hub
For smaller kitchens with limited pantry space, the cupboard above the fridge can act as an overflow area for pantry items. Dry goods like rice, pasta, and snacks can be stored neatly up there. If you’re an avid home cook, you might also consider using this space for a spice rack. It’s a clever way to keep your cooking essentials organized without overcrowding your primary pantry.
5. Bulk Storage for Kitchen Towels
Do you buy kitchen towels in bulk? My wife does, and we often find ourselves wondering where to put them all. The cupboard above the fridge is an ideal spot. It keeps the towels clean, out of sight, and ready for when you need them.
6. A Safe Spot for Fine China
If you have special plates, cutlery, or glassware that you only bring out for holidays and special occasions, storing them above the fridge could be a smart move. It keeps these fragile items safe from accidental mishaps and out of reach of curious children. Just be sure to handle them carefully when taking them down.
Safety First
While the cupboards above the fridge can be incredibly useful, it’s essential to prioritize safety when using them. Always use a sturdy step stool or ladder to access this high space, and be cautious about what you store there. Avoid placing items that are too heavy, as retrieving them could be risky.
Additionally, keep in mind that refrigerators emit heat, which can make the area above them less ideal for storing perishable goods or items sensitive to temperature changes. Stick to non-perishable items and sturdy containers to make the most of this space without any issues.
A Few More Tips
- Organize with bins or baskets: Using bins or baskets inside the cupboard can help you keep items grouped and easier to retrieve. For example, one bin for baking supplies, another for canned goods, and so on.
- Label everything: Labeling your bins, jars, or containers can save you time when searching for specific items.
- Declutter regularly: It’s easy for high-up storage areas to become dumping grounds for forgotten items. Periodically check what you’ve stored and remove anything you no longer need.