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

Small kitchen cabinets which are located above your refrigerator can be a hidden gem of storage potential when they are utilized effectively. These often-overlooked spaces can allow you to declutter your kitchen, keep items organized, and maximize your kitchen’s storage capacity.

Below, we’ll share with you various ways to make the most of those cabinets and offer practical examples of how to use them efficiently.

1. Store Infrequently Used Appliances

This is one of the most common uses for the cabinets above your fridge. You can store small kitchen appliances that you don’t use daily. Examples include:

Blender: Keep your blender out of sight but easily accessible for those occasional smoothie cravings.

Food Processor: If you only use your food processor occasionally for chopping or slicing, store it here.

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

If you want to make items more accessible and keep the cabinets tidy, put bins or baskets ino consideration. Examples of items to organize this way include:

Canned Goods: Use clear plastic bins to organize canned goods like soups, sauces, or vegetables.

Baking Supplies: Group items like measuring cups, rolling pins, and pastry brushes in labeled bins.

Cookware Accessories: Keep pot holders, oven mitts, and trivets in a basket for easy access.

3. Utilize Vertical Space

Install additional shelves or adjustable racks to make the most of the vertical space. Here are some examples of what you can store:

Spices: Install small shelves to store your spice jars, creating a compact spice rack.

Cookbooks: Place cookbooks vertically to save space and showcase your collection.

Glassware: Store seldom-used glassware or wine glasses vertically on shelves.

4. Bulk Items and Kitchen Linens

You can use small kitchen cabinets above the fridge to store bulk items and kitchen linens:

Paper Towels: Stock up on paper towels and tissues in this space to free up other area

Bulk Staples: Keep extra pantry staples, such as flour, sugar, or rice, in airtight containers.

Kitchen Towels: Store kitchen towels, dishcloths, and cleaning rags here for easy access.

5. Seasonal Items and Special Occasions

The cabinets can be used to store items that you only need during specific seasons or special occasions:

Picnic Supplies: Store picnic blankets, outdoor dining accessories, and reusable plates for warm-weather outings.

Holiday Decor: Keep your holiday-themed serving dishes, table linens, and decorations here until needed.

Special Serving Dishes: Reserve space for special occasion dishes, like fine china or elegant serving platters.

6. Regular Maintenance and Safety

To make sure 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.