Most people think these cupboards are pointless. Here’s how to properly use them

“Most people think these cupboards are pointless.” This common sentiment often surrounds those cabinets perched precariously above the refrigerator. Viewed as an afterthought in kitchen design, these elevated spaces frequently languish, filled with dust bunnies and rarely accessed items. But what if I told you these “pointless” cupboards hold untapped potential? With a little ingenuity and strategic organization, these lofty shelves can transform from wasted space into a valuable asset, streamlining your kitchen and freeing up valuable counter and drawer space.

Let’s delve into the art of conquering those cabinets above the refrigerator.

Unleashing the Potential:

First, it’s crucial to acknowledge the unique challenges these cabinets present. Their height demands a bit of effort to reach, making it tempting to simply shove items in and forget about them. However, with the right approach, these challenges can be overcome.

1. A Treasure Trove for Infrequently Used Items:

Think of these cabinets as a designated zone for kitchen gadgets and appliances that see limited action. That bulky stand mixer gathering dust on the counter? Relocate it! The waffle iron used only on special occasions? It’s time to find its new home among the clouds.

2. The Power of Bins and Baskets:

Introduce order to the chaos by utilizing bins and baskets. Group similar items together – baking essentials in one bin, canned goods in another, and cookware accessories in a third. This not only enhances visual appeal but also makes finding what you need a breeze. Opt for clear bins and baskets to quickly identify contents without unnecessary rummaging.

3. Maximizing Vertical Space:

Don’t let precious vertical space go to waste. Install additional shelves or utilize shelf risers to create multiple tiers within the cabinet. This allows for efficient storage of items of varying heights, from towering cookbooks to compact spice jars.

4. Beyond the Obvious:

These cabinets can serve as a versatile storage solution for more than just kitchen gadgets.

• Embrace Bulk Storage: Store bulk pantry items like flour, sugar, and grains in airtight containers to keep them fresh and organized.
• A Haven for Textiles: Utilize the space to store paper towels, cleaning cloths, and kitchen linens neatly and out of sight.
• Seasonal Storage Solutions: Designate a section for seasonal items like holiday decorations, picnic supplies, and seldom-used serving dishes.

5. Maintaining Order and Safety:

Regularly inspect and reorganize the cabinets to ensure only necessary items are stored. This prevents clutter from accumulating and makes it easier to find what you need.

Safety First:

Always use a sturdy step stool when accessing items in these high cabinets to avoid accidents. Additionally, be mindful of storing heat-sensitive items near the refrigerator, as the appliance can generate heat.

Transforming “Pointless” into Powerful:

By implementing these strategies, you can transform those often-overlooked cabinets above the refrigerator into a well-organized and efficient storage solution. No longer a source of frustration, these spaces will become a testament to your kitchen organization prowess.