Your kitchen is the heart of your home, but are you making the most of every inch of space? High kitchen cabinets, often overlooked and underutilized, can transform your storage capabilities. In this guide, “What to Put in High Kitchen Cabinets? Smart Ideas & Solutions,” we’ll explore how to maximize these upper cabinets with clever ideas and solutions. You’ll discover what items are ideal for storing up high, how to organize them efficiently, and safety tips to ensure you can access everything with ease.
Understanding High Kitchen Cabinets
High kitchen cabinets, also known as overhead or wall cabinets, are the cupboards installed above your countertops and appliances. They usually reach up to the ceiling or stop just short of it. While they can sometimes seem out of reach, these cabinets offer valuable storage space that shouldn’t go to waste.
Description of High Kitchen Cabinets
Typically mounted about 18 inches above the countertop, high kitchen cabinets range in height from 30 to 42 inches, depending on your ceiling height. They come in various designs and styles, from solid doors to glass-fronted displays. The depth is usually around 12 inches, perfect for storing dishes, glasses, and pantry items.
Benefits of Using High Kitchen Cabinets
- Maximize Storage Space: Utilizing vertical space helps keep your kitchen organized and clutter-free.
- Enhanced Organization: Storing items you don’t use daily frees up lower cabinets for everyday essentials.
- Cleaner Counters: With more storage options, you can keep countertops clear, making your kitchen look spacious and tidy.
- Aesthetic Appeal: High cabinets can enhance your kitchen’s look, especially when used to display decorative items.
What to Store in High Kitchen Cabinets
High kitchen cabinets are perfect for storing items that you don’t need to access every day. Here are some smart ideas:
1. Seasonal Items
Seasonal items like holiday-themed dishes, special baking molds, or festive decorations are only used a few times a year. Storing them in high cabinets keeps them safe and out of the way until you need them.
Storing these items up high protects them from damage and frees up space in your lower cabinets. When the holiday season arrives, you’ll know exactly where to find your special items without digging through everyday clutter.
2. Seldom-Used Appliances
Appliances like waffle makers, ice cream machines, or bread makers might not be part of your daily routine. Keeping them in high cabinets frees up lower storage for items you use more frequently.
By storing these gadgets overhead, you declutter your countertops and lower cabinets, making your kitchen more functional. When you’re ready to use that fondue pot or slow cooker, you can easily retrieve it without it taking up valuable space year-round.
3. Special Occasion Dishware
Fine china, crystal glasses, or heirloom serving pieces are perfect candidates for upper cabinet storage. They stay protected and can even be displayed if your cabinets have glass doors.
High cabinets keep these delicate items safe from daily wear and tear. If you have glass-front cabinets, arranging your special dishes can add elegance to your kitchen décor, turning storage into a visual feature.
4. Bulk Items
If you buy pantry staples in bulk—like extra paper towels, canned goods, or dry goods—store the overflow in your high cabinets. This keeps your everyday pantry organized and accessible.
Storing surplus items up high means they’re on hand when you need them but don’t crowd your main pantry space. It’s an effective way to manage bulk purchases without sacrificing accessibility or organization.
Organizing High Kitchen Cabinets
Maximizing the efficiency of your high cabinets involves smart organization strategies.
1. Use of Cabinet Organizers
Utilize shelf risers, pull-out baskets, or lazy Susans to make the most of the space and keep items accessible. Organizers prevent items from getting lost in the back and make retrieval easier.
By compartmentalizing your storage, you can easily categorize items. For example, bins can be used for holiday decorations or stackable shelves can be used for glassware. This not only optimizes space but also saves time when you’re searching for specific items.
2. Labeling
Labeling shelves or containers helps you quickly find what you need without rummaging through everything. It’s especially helpful for items stored behind solid cabinet doors.
Labels act as a roadmap to your high cabinets. Whether you use a label maker or simple sticky notes, knowing what’s stored where reduces frustration and keeps your kitchen running smoothly.
3. Step Stools
Keep a sturdy, foldable step stool nearby to safely access high cabinets. This ensures you can reach items without straining or risking injury.
Choose a step stool that folds flat for easy storage but is stable enough to provide secure footing. Having it readily available encourages safe practices when accessing upper cabinets.
Safety Measures for High Kitchen Cabinets
Safety is paramount when accessing items stored up high.
1. Precautions When Reaching High Cabinets
- Use Proper Equipment: Always use a step stool or ladder designed for reaching high places, not a chair or makeshift platform.
- Avoid Overreaching: Move the step stool as needed to stay directly in front of the cabinet you’re accessing.
- Store Heavy Items Low: Keep heavier items in lower cabinets to prevent accidents.
By following these precautions, you minimize the risk of falls or injuries. Safety should always come first, especially in a busy kitchen environment.
2. Safe Handling of Items
- Secure Grip: Ensure you have a firm hold on items before lifting them down.
- Clear the Area: Make sure the countertop below is clear to set items down safely.
- Ask for Help: If an item is too heavy or awkward, get assistance.
Taking your time and being mindful when retrieving items can prevent breakages and injuries. Don’t rush, and don’t hesitate to ask for help when needed.
3. Proper Installation of Cabinets
- Secure Mounting: Ensure your high cabinets are properly installed and anchored to support the weight of stored items.
- Professional Installation: Consider hiring a professional to install or inspect your cabinets.
Proper installation is crucial for safety and longevity. Overloaded or improperly mounted cabinets can be hazardous. Regularly check for any signs of wear or instability.
Making the Most of High Kitchen Cabinets
By thoughtfully selecting what you store in high cabinets and organizing them well, you can greatly enhance your kitchen’s functionality.
- Regular Review: Periodically check the contents of your high cabinets to declutter and ensure you’re not storing unnecessary items.
- Use Clear Containers: For items like bulk dry goods, use clear, labeled containers so you can easily see what’s inside.
- Decorative Display: If you have glass-front cabinets, arrange attractive dishware or collectibles for a pleasing aesthetic.
Taking these extra steps not only improves functionality but also adds to the visual appeal of your kitchen. An organized space contributes to a more enjoyable cooking and dining experience.
Conclusion:
Don’t let your high kitchen cabinets go to waste! With these ideas and solutions, you can transform those upper spaces into valuable storage that enhances your kitchen’s organization and aesthetics. Remember to prioritize safety when accessing high cabinets and use organizers to keep everything neat and accessible. By making the most of every inch, you’ll enjoy a more efficient and enjoyable kitchen environment.
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