The awkward cabinet positioned directly above the refrigerator is notoriously difficult to use. Because it sits high up and is usually deep and dark, most people either leave it completely empty or shove items inside and completely forget about them.
While manufacturers originally designed it to fill the gap and keep kitchen lines uniform, its height and depth make it best suited for specific items:
1. Rarely Used Appliances and Entertaining Gear
This is the absolute best use for that vertical space. Heavy, bulky items that you only pull out a few times a year don’t belong in your prime, everyday storage zones.
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Examples: Turkey roasters, large stockpots, ice cream makers, fondue sets, holiday-themed serving platters, and seasonal punch bowls.
2. Bulk Paper Goods and Lightweight Storage
Because lifting heavy items above your head can be a safety hazard, lightweight and bulky household supplies are ideal for this spot.
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Examples: Extra paper towel rolls, napkins, paper plates, and bulk ziplock bags. They take up a lot of space elsewhere in your kitchen, but they are light and easy to grab down.
3. Extra Pantry Stock
If you buy non-perishable goods in bulk, overflow items can live comfortably up top until you need to replenish your main pantry.
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Examples: Extra cases of water bottles, canned goods, or bulk bags of flour and sugar (ideally stored in lightweight plastic bins with handles).
Pro-Tips to Make It Actually Usable
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Use Bins with Handles: Never store loose items up there. Put everything into matching storage bins or baskets that have a front or side handle. This allows you to slide the entire bin out like a drawer rather than blindly reaching into a dark cave.
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Keep a Step Stool Handy: Store a slim, folding step stool nearby (like in the pantry or laundry room) so you can safely see and reach what’s inside without straining your back or standing precariously on a chair.
