This cabinet can also serve as an extension of your pantry. It’s great for long-lasting foods like canned goods, baking supplies, or seasonal ingredients. Items like holiday sprinkles, extra flour, or that can of pumpkin purée you use once a year stay neatly tucked away until needed.
Cookbooks are another great fit. If you have a few favorites you refer to now and then, the space above your fridge can keep them close without cluttering your countertop or open shelves.
Pantry overflow? Use it to store backup spices, dry goods in labeled containers, or non-perishable condiments. Even paper towels, napkins, or kitchen linens purchased in bulk can be stored up high and rotated when needed.
For special-occasion dishware or glassware that doesn’t see everyday use, this cabinet provides a safe, out-of-the-way place. It can help protect more delicate items, especially in busy households with young children.
That said, always prioritize safety. Use a sturdy step stool to access the cabinet, and avoid storing anything overly heavy or breakable. Also, since the area above the refrigerator can be slightly warmer, avoid storing items that are heat-sensitive.
With just a little planning, the cabinet above your refrigerator can go from being underused to incredibly practical. It’s a small space that, when used wisely, can make a big difference in how your kitchen functions.
So next time you organize your kitchen, don’t overlook that top cabinet—it may be the hidden gem you didn’t know you needed.