If you’ve ever looked up at the cabinets above your refrigerator and wondered what they’re actually for, you’re not alone. These spaces often seem like forgotten corners of the kitchen—small, oddly shaped, and seemingly too high or awkward to be useful for most of your everyday items. At first glance, it might look like they’re just there for decoration or extra storage that you rarely use. But if you take a moment to think about it, those cabinets can actually become some of the most versatile and handy storage spots in your entire kitchen—if you know how to make the most of them.
Many people assume these cabinets are too small or inconvenient for their typical dishes or glasses, which is true for some. But there are plenty of clever ways to utilize that space for items you don’t need every day but still want to keep easily accessible. So, if you’ve ever been unsure about what to do with those upper cabinets, this is your sign to get creative.
One of the best uses for these cabinets is to store appliances you only use occasionally. That old mixer that comes out once a year for special baking projects? The blender you use for smoothies but never see in daily rotation? Placing these bulky or rarely-used items in the upper cabinets is practical because they’re out of the way, yet still easy to retrieve when needed. It keeps your countertops clear and your everyday cabinets less cluttered.
Canned goods are a classic choice. These items have a long shelf life, take up minimal space, and are often overlooked until you realize you’re running low or are at the back of the pantry. Storing cans up there means you can forget about them for a while—until you need them. It’s a great way to keep your pantry organized, and when you’re planning a week’s meals or just want to grab a quick soup or veggies, reaching up to your upper cabinet becomes just another step in your routine.
Another smart idea is to store baked goods or treats you only enjoy on weekends or special occasions. Cookies, snacks, or a box of pastries that you don’t need every day can be tucked away in those higher cabinets. Out of sight, out of mind—yet there when you need a sweet pick-me-up or want to impress guests with a little treat.
If you have a collection of cookbooks or recipe guides that tend to clutter your counters or shelves, consider placing them in these upper cabinets too. It’s a simple way to rid your kitchen of clutter while still keeping your favorite recipes handy. Plus, they’re protected from accidental spills or accidental knocks—keeping them pristine and easy to pull out when you’re ready to try something new.
In addition to recipes and canned goods, think about storing other pantry items you don’t reach for daily. Extra spice jars, baking supplies like flour or sugar, or even special ingredients for the holidays can all find a home here. It keeps your main pantry organized, and it’s nice to have a dedicated spot for those items that don’t need to be front and center.
Don’t overlook small household essentials either—like rolls of paper towels or toilet paper, especially when you buy in bulk. They can be tucked into the corners of those high cabinets, freeing up space elsewhere and keeping your home more orderly. It’s one of those small tips that can really make a difference in how clutter-free your kitchen feels overall.
Lastly, if you have special dishes or cutlery that you only bring out for holidays or family gatherings, those upper cabinets are a perfect hiding spot. They keep your fancy china or elegant silverware safe from the everyday hustle and bustle, yet easily accessible when the occasion arises.
Of course, a word of caution—be mindful of how much weight you put up there. These cabinets aren’t always built to hold heavy items, and lifting something bulky or awkward can be risky. Make sure there’s enough space between shelves, and avoid overloading them beyond their capacity. Safety first!
So, how do you use the cabinets above your refrigerator? Do you store only a few things, or have you turned that space into a mini storage fortress? I’d love to hear your tips, tricks, and ideas. Sometimes, a simple adjustment or a little creativity can turn an awkward space into one of your kitchen’s most useful features!
