A tidy home has many benefits, and for those who value organization, keeping everything in its right place is key—especially when it comes to the fridge and its surroundings. If you’re like me, it’s hard to concentrate when things are cluttered, and there’s something particularly bothersome about a disorganized refrigerator or kitchen.

However, I wasn’t always like this. Growing up, I didn’t prioritize tidiness, but I’ve come to appreciate it, largely thanks to my mom. She had a natural gift for organization, and I often admired how our house looked like it belonged in a magazine. It was always spotless, and everything had its designated place. Among the many valuable lessons she imparted to me, one of the most useful was how to make the most of small storage spaces, such as those often-overlooked cupboards above the refrigerator.

These cupboards tend to be small and might seem difficult to utilize effectively. At first glance, they may not seem like they can hold much, and some people struggle with figuring out how to make use of such limited space. But with a little creativity, you’ll find that these cupboards can serve a variety of practical functions. Here are some ideas for utilizing these spaces effectively:

1. Store Infrequently Used Kitchen Gadgets

The cupboards above the fridge might not be ideal for items you use on a daily basis, like plates or glasses, but they can work wonders for those kitchen gadgets you pull out only on occasion. Appliances like food processors, blenders, or waffle makers take up precious counter space, but placing them in these upper cabinets will keep them out of the way. You won’t need them every day, but you’ll still have quick access when needed.

2. Store Canned Goods and Baking Supplies

Canned food items often have long shelf lives, making them perfect for storage in the cupboard above the fridge. You can place canned vegetables, soups, and other non-perishable goods in this space without worrying about them going bad. Similarly, baking essentials that you don’t use regularly, such as flour, sugar, and baking powders, can be conveniently stashed here. These items are used less frequently, so you can easily forget about them for a while, knowing they’ll be just fine.

3. Keep Your Cookbooks Handy

If you love to cook, chances are you’ve accumulated a few cookbooks over the years. If your kitchen space is tight, you might not want to leave them cluttering the countertops. The cupboard above the fridge is an ideal spot to store your collection. It keeps them out of the way yet accessible when you need inspiration for your next recipe.

4. Organize Pantry Items and Spices

Like canned goods, other pantry items can fit perfectly in these upper cupboards. You might find that items like dried pasta, rice, or beans can be easily stored here, helping to free up space in your main pantry area. Additionally, spices that you don’t use every day can be neatly placed in a small rack and stored up top. This keeps them organized and within arm’s reach when you’re preparing a meal.

5. Store Kitchen Towels

If you tend to buy kitchen towels in bulk, you may find that they take up more space than you’d like in your regular cabinets. The cupboard above the fridge can serve as a practical place to store these towels. Not only does this free up space in other drawers or cabinets, but it also makes your towels easily accessible when you need them.

6. Keep Special Occasions Dinnerware

Do you have a fine china set or a special set of plates and silverware that you only use for holidays or special occasions? The small cupboard above your fridge could be the perfect place to store them. It keeps them out of sight and prevents accidental damage, especially if you have young children around.

7. Be Mindful of Safety

While these upper cupboards can be incredibly useful, it’s important to exercise caution when accessing them. Because of the height, lifting heavy items or overloading the shelves can be dangerous. Always use a sturdy step ladder or stool to safely reach up and retrieve items. Additionally, keep in mind that the heat coming from the refrigerator below may not be suitable for some products, so it’s best to avoid storing heat-sensitive items in this location.

Final Thoughts

The cupboards above the refrigerator are often an underutilized space in many kitchens, but with a little thought and creativity, you can make the most of this often-overlooked area. Whether you’re storing gadgets, canned goods, or special occasion dinnerware, this space can help keep your kitchen organized and clutter-free. Just remember to stay safe when accessing these cupboards and be mindful of what you store there. With a bit of planning, you’ll find that even the smallest spaces can make a big difference in keeping your home neat and efficient.