What the Cabinets Above Your Refrigerator Are Really For

Let’s be honest: the cabinet above the refrigerator is one of the most awkward spots in any kitchen. It’s often ignored, crammed with random items, or left completely empty. But with a few smart tweaks, this tricky space can become surprisingly functional—and even organized.

Step One: Adjust the Shelf

If your above-fridge cabinet includes a shelf, start by lowering it as far as it will go. Doing this creates a shorter upper area that’s perfect for storing long, slim items like aluminum foil, plastic wrap, parchment paper, or storage bags. Lining these items up in a single row makes them far easier to grab—and keeps the area from becoming a jumble.

If you’re lucky enough to have a deep cabinet, use the back portion for items you rarely need, such as vintage CorningWare, holiday dishes, or specialty cookware. These “once in a while” pieces stay tucked away while the front of the cabinet remains accessible for everyday essentials.

Step Two: Store Light, Bulky Items

Still have room? Don’t let it sit empty. This space is ideal for storing lightweight but bulky items, like serving trays, large mixing bowls, or platters you only use for gatherings. Adding tray dividers can help keep everything neat and easy to pull out.

Depending on what you use most often, you can also flip your usual storage habits. If you reach for baking sheets more frequently than large serving platters, store the sheets in a lower cabinet and place the platters above the fridge instead. Your most-used items stay accessible, while the occasional pieces stay out of the way.

Step Three: Make the Most of Hard-to-Reach Areas

Even if the cabinet is high enough that you need a stool, you can still use it strategically. One of my clients recently stored coffee pods in tidy rows on her pantry’s top shelf—and the same idea works great above the fridge. Neatly stacking small, lightweight items like Nespresso sleeves, tea boxes, or extra snacks makes use of the space without turning it into a hassle.

The Secret to a Smarter Kitchen

That forgotten cabinet above the refrigerator doesn’t have to be wasted space. With a few simple adjustments—lowering shelves, adding dividers, or reorganizing the items you store—you can turn it into a surprisingly efficient part of your kitchen.

Ready to take back that awkward cabinet? A little thoughtful organizing can transform it from an annoyance into one of the most useful spots in your home.