Do you ever wonder what to do with those small drawers above your refrigerator? Many people overlook these hidden spaces, but they can actually be quite useful in maintaining order and maximizing the storage in your kitchen. Let’s explore some practical ways to make the most of these cabinets.

Storing Appliances You Rarely Use

The cabinets above the refrigerator are perfect for storing small kitchen appliances that you don’t use frequently. Here are a few examples:

• Food Processor: If you only use your food processor occasionally, this cabinet is the ideal spot to keep it.
• Blender: Store your blender in this cabinet for those rare smoothie cravings.
• Waffle Maker: Appliances like waffle makers, that you use less frequently but are essential when you need them, can be kept here.

Organize with Bins or Baskets

Consider using bins or baskets to further organize the space above your refrigerator. Here are a few items you can arrange this way:

• Baking Supplies: Sort utensils like pastry brushes, rolling pins, and measuring cups into designated bins.
• Canned Goods: Use see-through plastic containers to organize canned foods such as sauces, soups, and veggies.
• Cookware Accessories: Keep trivets, oven mitts, and pot holders easily accessible in a basket.

Maximize Vertical Space

Don’t forget about the vertical space in your cabinets above the refrigerator. By adding extra shelves or adjustable racks, you can make the most of this area. Here are some ideas:

• Cookbooks: Arrange your cookbooks vertically to save space and show off your collection.
• Spices: Create a small spice rack on tiny shelves for your spice jars.
• Glassware: Store wine glasses or other glassware that you don’t use often vertically on the shelves.

Storing Bulk Items and Kitchen Linens

The cabinets above the refrigerator are also great for storing bulk items and kitchen linens. Consider these suggestions:

• Bulk Staples: Keep extra pantry basics like rice, flour, or sugar fresh and easily accessible in airtight containers.
• Paper Towels: Clear space in other parts of your kitchen by storing additional paper towel and tissue supplies here.
• Kitchen Towels: Keep cleaning rags, dishcloths, and kitchen towels organized and handy in this cabinet.

Seasonal Items and Special Occasions Storage

Make use of the small kitchen cabinets above the refrigerator to store seasonal or special occasion items. Here’s how:

• Holiday Decor: Store your serving dishes, tablecloths, and decorations safely until the Christmas season approaches.
• Picnic Supplies: Keep reusable plates, picnic blankets, and outdoor eating accessories organized for warm-weather excursions.
• Special Serving Dishes: Reserve space for items meant for special occasions, such as exquisite porcelain or sophisticated serving platters, and make sure they stay in pristine condition until needed.

Regular Maintenance and Safety

To ensure the functionality and safety of these cabinets above the refrigerator, keep the following tips in mind:

• Periodic Assessment: Regularly go through the contents of the cabinet and remove anything you no longer need to keep the storage area neat and effective.
• Safe Access: Use a strong step stool or ladder to access objects from these cabinets safely and avoid accidents.
• Heat-Sensitive Items: Be cautious when handling heat-sensitive products, as the heat from the refrigerator can warm the area above it.

By utilizing the cabinets above your refrigerator effectively, you can optimize storage in your kitchen and keep things organized. Don’t let these hidden spaces go to waste!