There’s a unique kind of joy that comes from walking into a home where everything feels thoughtfully placed—even the smallest, most easily ignored nooks. One spot that often goes unnoticed? Those curious little cabinets sitting above the refrigerator. At first glance, they seem too high and awkward to be useful, but with the right mindset, they can become hidden gems of storage.
If you’re like many people, those overhead cupboards are either collecting dust or housing a jumble of forgotten odds and ends. But once you see their potential, you’ll wonder why you didn’t put them to better use sooner.
As a kid, I didn’t pay much attention to how a house was organized. That changed when I started noticing how effortlessly my mom kept everything in order—her home always looked like it was ready for a home décor shoot. One of her little-known tricks? Making smart use of the space above the fridge.
Let’s be honest—these cabinets aren’t the most convenient for items you reach for daily. But they’re perfect for storing the things you only need once in a while. Think about all those bulky kitchen appliances that take up valuable counter or cabinet space—slow cookers, waffle makers, large blenders, or food processors. Tucking them above the fridge keeps them out of the way until you really need them.
It’s also a great place to stash pantry items that have a long shelf life or seasonal use. That can of cranberry sauce or holiday sprinkles? Baking powder or cans of pumpkin? Store them up there where they’ll stay safe, dry, and out of sight until it’s time to use them.
Even cookbooks, especially ones you don’t reach for daily but still love, can live up there. Stack them neatly for easy access without cluttering your kitchen counters or shelves.
And if you’re dealing with pantry overflow, that top cabinet can be a lifesaver. Use small bins or organizers to hold backup spices, sauces, or dry goods you’ve bought in bulk. It’s also a smart storage spot for non-food items like extra kitchen towels, napkins, or paper products that you rotate through regularly.
In short, that awkward little cabinet you’ve been ignoring? It might just be the most underutilized storage hero in your kitchen.
Dedicated and experienced pet-related content writer with a passion for animals and a proven track record of creating engaging and informative content. Skilled in researching, writing, and editing articles that educate and inspire pet owners. Strong knowledge of animal behavior, health, and care, combined with a commitment to delivering high-quality content that resonates with audiences. Seeking to leverage writing skills and passion for pets to contribute to a dynamic and mission-driven team.