Having a tidy and organized home is something many people strive for. If you’re like me, it can be hard to focus when things are out of place or your space feels cluttered. While I didn’t always care much for keeping things organized as a kid, I have my mother to thank for teaching me some helpful tips that now keep my home neat and presentable.

One of the best tricks she passed down to me is making the most of the small, often-overlooked cupboards above the refrigerator. At first glance, these cupboards might seem impractical. They’re often too high to store items you use daily, and their size can be limiting for certain things like plates or cups. However, with a little creativity, these small spaces can be put to good use.

Clever Ways to Use the Cupboards Above Your Fridge

Here are some helpful ideas for maximizing the potential of those high-up cupboards:

1. Storage for Infrequently Used Kitchen Gadgets

While it’s true that these cupboards might not be ideal for things you use every day, they’re perfect for storing kitchen gadgets you only break out on special occasions. Appliances like food processors, blenders, or waffle makers can easily find a home in these cupboards. Since they don’t see daily use, it’s convenient to store them out of the way until you need them.

2. Canned Goods and Baking Supplies

The long shelf life of canned goods makes them a great candidate for storage in these upper cupboards. If you don’t use them frequently, it’s okay if they’re stored where you might forget about them for a while. Similarly, baking essentials—such as flour, sugar, or spices that you only use on weekends or special occasions—can be neatly tucked away here until you’re ready to bake.

3. Cookbook Storage

If you have a collection of cookbooks taking up valuable counter space, the cupboards above your fridge can serve as the perfect place to keep them organized. This way, they’re still easily accessible, but out of the way.

4. Pantry Items and Spices

In addition to canned goods, other pantry staples can be stored in these cupboards. For example, spices you don’t use daily can be kept on a small spice rack in this space. It’s a clever way to keep your kitchen organized while still having everything you need nearby.

5. Kitchen Towels and Paper Products

Household items like kitchen towels, paper towels, or napkins that are bought in bulk can easily be stored in these cupboards. Instead of cramming them into other kitchen drawers, keep them in the upper cupboards to free up space for more frequently used items.

6. Fine China or Special Occasion Items

If you have a set of fine china or special cutlery that you only use on holidays or special occasions, these cupboards offer a safe storage spot. Keeping them up high reduces the chances of children or others accidentally damaging them.

A Word of Caution

While these ideas can help you make the most of your upper cupboards, it’s important to remember safety when using them. Always use a sturdy stool or step ladder to access anything stored above your fridge, especially when dealing with heavy items. Also, keep in mind that the heat emitted from the fridge can make this area less ideal for storing certain products, so be mindful of what you place up there.

Do you have a creative way to use the cupboards above your fridge? Let us know in the comments below!