Top Over Fridge Cabinet Ideas

Cabinets above refrigerators are often overlooked storage spaces. With their hard-to-reach depths and awkward dimensions, these cabinets seem useless. But with some creative organizing ideas, you can transform that unused space into valuable storage real estate.

From pull-out shelves to corner organizers, you'll find ideas to neatly organize linens, small appliances, craft supplies, and more. We'll also cover cabinet customizations and space-saving wall cabinets. By the end, you'll see the potential in this forgotten cabinet spot.

Measure Your Over Fridge Cabinet Space

Before installing any storage solutions, take exact measurements of the cabinet interior. Note the depth from front to back and the height. Account for any soffits, ceilings, or lighting that may limit the usable space.

Knowing the precise dimensions allows you to calculate what can realistically fit. Then you can shop for storage solutions or build customized organizers sized to your over fridge cabinet space. Even just a few inches make a difference in what you can store. So accurate measurements are key.

Tips for Measuring

• Use a measuring tape for accurate dimensions
• Account for any obstacles like pipes or wires
• Measure from multiple points to ensure it's level
• Note if the back is hard to reach

Once you know what you're working with, you can start planning. Browse over fridge organizers and storage containers to find pieces that optimize your available space.

Organizational Systems

Installing organizational systems is the best way to compartmentalize your over fridge cabinet area. The right storage solutions make even the most awkward space totally usable. Here are some of our favorite organizers to try:

Shelving Units

Shelves divide up vertical space for stacking bins and baskets. For especially deep cabinets, consider adjustable roll-out shelves. These pull out so you can easily see and access items pushed way in the back. Turntables also bring items within reach without rummaging.

Baskets, Bins, and Drawers

Use containers of various sizes to corral like items together. Label each bin so you know exactly where to find what you need. This prevents a disorganized junk drawer scenario. If the cabinet depth allows, drawers offer another storage option.

Door Storage

Take advantage of the cabinet door by mounting racks or shelves. Door-mounted storage solutions are great for items you use frequently like spices, foil, cleaning supplies, etc. You can instantly grab what you need without digging.

Storage By Room

How you utilize over fridge cabinet storage depends on the room it's located in. Here are clever ideas for putting different spaces to work:

Kitchen Cabinet Storage Ideas

Over fridge kitchen cabinets are perfect for storing small appliances, extra dishware, or infrequently used cooking items. Here are some smart ideas:

• Microwave or toaster oven
• Spice racks or containers
• Serving trays or platters
• Appliance accessories like air fryer pans

Bathroom Over Fridge Cabinet

In bathrooms, utilize over fridge cabinets to store extra linens or healthcare items. For example:

• Washcloths, hand towels, toilet paper
• First aid supplies or medicine
• Hair appliances like curling or straightening irons
• Rolls of gift wrap (stays dry)

Laundry Room Over Fridge Cabinet

For laundry rooms, use the cabinet for laundry care items. Things like:

• Detergents, bleaches, fabric softener
• Ironing board
• Drying racks or hangers
• Sewing notions like thread, needles, buttons

Storage By Item Type

You can also organize over fridge cabinets based on categories of items. Group similar things together for easy access. Some ideas:

Display Cabinet

Use glass-front cabinet doors to show off prized collections or decor items. For example:

• China, ceramics, or unique glassware
• Sentimental photos or souvenirs
• Collectibles like coins, stamps, or figurines

Linens Cabinet

Neatly fold and store various linens together like:

• Sheet sets
• Blankets, quilts and shams
• Towels, washcloths, and hand towels

Entertaining Cabinet

Make parties a breeze with an over fridge entertainment cabinet storing:

• Wine, cocktail mixers, glassware
• Serving trays, platters
• Tablecloths, cloth napkins, candles

Advanced Cabinet Customizations

For a built-in look, consider customizing your over fridge cabinetry. Simple upgrades provide professional finish with more functionality:

Extra Lighting

Install battery-operated LED puck lights inside the cabinet to brightly illuminate the space. No wiring required for easy install.

Full-Height Trim

Frame out a custom full-height cabinet with trim molding for a seamless built-in look.

Specialty Hardware

Choose space-saving hardware like pull-down cabinet doors or sliding drawers. These specialty mechanisms maximize storage capacity.

Wall-Mounted Cabinet Ideas

Short on over fridge cabinet space? Try a wall-mounted cabinet instead. Hang a floating cabinet or shelves to add storage without large construction projects.

Floating Shelves

Mount floating shelves or cubbies on the wall over the fridge. These open shelves neatly display items you use daily.

Hanging Wall Cabinet

A wall-mounted cabinet with doors keeps items concealed and dust-free. Install hooks inside for hanging storage.

Wall Rack With Shelves

Wall-mounted racks double your storage space. Bins and baskets corral items while shelves hold appliances, cookbooks, etc.

Complement Room Design

When tackling over fridge cabinet storage, consider the overall kitchen or room design. Match finishes and details for cohesive style throughout the space:

Match Cabinet Door Style

Mimic the same shaker-style door design or inset cabinet fronts. Repeat door knobs and pulls for continuity.

Coordinate Paint Color

Use the exact wall color to paint the cabinet box and trim. This helps the cabinet blend seamlessly into wall surfaces.

Repeat Hardware Finishes

Unify the look with matching cabinet hardware. If the kitchen uses oil-rubbed bronze knobs, continue the finish on the over fridge cabinet.

Over Fridge Cabinet Solutions By Size

The shape of your over fridge cabinet also impacts storage options. Here are clever solutions for three common size scenarios:

Narrow Cabinet Ideas

Max out slim spaces with these narrow cabinet storage ideas:

• Vertical divider shelves
• Slide-out trays or drawers
• Door-mounted bins and racks
• Wall-mounted rail system with S-hooks

Shallow Cabinet Solutions

Shallow cabinets lack front-to-back depth but you can still use them with these tips:

• Half-depth pull-out shelves
• Turntables for easy access
• Door-mounted storage racks
• Wall-mounted garage storage system

Deep Cabinet Ideas

Make the most out of a deep, high-ceiling over fridge cabinet with these space-saving solutions:

• Full extension roll-out shelves
• Slide-out Vertical storage racks
• Freestanding shelf unit inside cabinet
• Custom built-in drawers for maximum storage

Cleaning and Maintenance

An organized over fridge cabinet makes regular cleaning effortless. Avoid dust and grime buildup using these tips:

Protect With Liners

Line cabinets with shelf liner or wallpaper to prevent spills and stains over time.

Install Shelving

Shelves make wiping down surfaces fast compared to storage bins. Optimize the cabinet so all areas are reachable.

Clean Regularly

Dust and vacuum cabinets monthly to nip grime in the bud. Use all-purpose cleaner to wipe down shelves and hardware.

Safety Considerations

Proper installation is crucial when mounting storage systems above your refrigerator. Prioritize safety with these pointers:

Secure Mounting

Reinforce mounting with molly bolts anchored to wall studs. Follow all weight limits for your cabinet and hardware.

Child Safety Locks

If small children are present, add safety latches to keep little hands away from cleaners, medications, etc.

Weight Distribution

Avoid overweight storage up high. Heavy items belong secured on lower shelves to minimize falling hazards.

With some planning and creative storage ideas, you can completely transform overlooked fridge top cabinet spaces. Customize organizers to neatly accommodate items specific to the room rather than ignoring the unused real estate.

Measuring first allows you to shop or build storage to perfectly suit your cabinet footprint. And don't forget small details like lighting and finishes that polish off the integrated look. By incorporating specialty hardware and custom built-ins, you can achieve one-of-a-kind over fridge cabinetry storage unique to your home.