Whether you’re a culinary enthusiast with an extensive collection of spices or a minimalist seeking to maximize every inch of your kitchen, here are some ideas to suit every lifestyle and need.
From the innovative design of Lazy Susans to the sleek efficiency of pull-out shelves, this article will guide you through a variety of solutions that will transform your corner kitchen cabinet from a cluttered abyss to a well-organized and functional storage haven.
What Should You Put in Upper Corner Kitchen Cabinets
Upper-corner kitchen cabinets can be challenging to access, but there are several items you can consider storing in them to maximize space and functionality:
Lazy Susan
A rotating tray or turntable (Lazy Susan) makes it easier to access items stored in the corner.
Cookware
Utilize the space for storing pots, pans, or baking sheets, as they can be stacked or arranged to make the most of the corner space.
Small Appliances
Depending on the size of the cabinet, small appliances like blenders, food processors, or stand mixers may fit well.
Extra Dishware
Store extra plates, bowls, or serving dishes in the upper corner cabinets.
Specialty Item
Reserve the space for specialty kitchen items that are not frequently used but are necessary on occasion, such as seasonal or entertaining pieces.
Baskets or Bins
Use baskets or bins to organize and store items like snacks, kitchen towels, or cleaning supplies for easy retrieval.
Cookbooks
If you have a collection of cookbooks, consider storing them in the upper corner cabinets.
What Should You Put in Lower Corner Kitchen Cabinets
Lower corner kitchen cabinets can be deep and challenging to access. To make the most of this space, consider storing items that are convenient for lower placement or benefitting from the extra space. Here are some suggestions:
Pull-Out Shelves or Trays
Install pull-out shelves or trays to make it easier to access items stored at the back of the cabinet.
Pots and Pans
Utilize the space for storing pots, pans, and lids. Consider adding dividers or pull-out organizers for better organization.
Small Appliances
Store larger or less frequently used small appliances such as slow cookers, stand mixers, or food processors.
Trash and Recycling Bins
Install a pull-out trash or recycling bin system for easy disposal without taking up valuable floor space.
Corner Drawers
Consider corner drawers for efficient storage of utensils, cutting boards, or baking sheets.
Bulk Storage
Store bulk items or large containers of non-perishable goods, like pet food or extra pantry staples.
Dishware or Bakeware
Store dishes, serving bowls, or bakeware in the lower corners for easy access during meal preparation.
Cleaning Supplies
Place cleaning supplies, such as brooms, mops, or vacuum cleaners, in the lower corner cabinets for a more organized cleaning space.
Inaccessible Space
Corner cabinets often have deep, hard-to-reach areas that can make it challenging to retrieve items stored in the back. This can result in wasted space and frustration.
Poor Organization
Without proper organization, corner cabinets can become cluttered and disorganized. This makes it difficult to find and access items when needed.
Limited Visibility
Due to their design, corner cabinets may have limited visibility, making it hard to see and reach items stored in the back. This can lead to items being forgotten or unused.
Evaluating Your Kitchen Layout
When designing a functional kitchen space, evaluating your kitchen layout is an important first step. By assessing your current layout, you can identify any challenges, including those related to corner cabinets, and make informed decisions about optimizing your kitchen storage and functionality.
To evaluate your kitchen layout, consider the following:
Traffic Flow:
- Observe movement in the kitchen.
- Ensure a clear and efficient flow between sink, stove, and refrigerator.
- Eliminate obstacles or bottlenecks.
Work Triangle:
- Assess the positioning of sink, stove, and refrigerator.
- Aim for a triangular layout for enhanced efficiency.
Ergonomics:
- Evaluate height and placement of countertops, cabinets, and appliances.
- Ensure comfortable heights and accessibility for all users.
Storage Space:
- Take stock of overall storage, including corner cabinets.
- Identify challenges in utilizing cabinets effectively.
- Address issues like difficult access or wasted space for optimal solutions.
Innovative Corner Cabinet Solutions
When it comes to maximizing storage and functionality in your corner cabinets, there are several innovative solutions available. Here are some options to consider:
Lazy Susans and Rotating Shelves
Lazy Susans are rotating shelves that allow easy access to items stored in corner cabinets.
They come in various designs, such as kidney-shaped or pie-cut, and can be installed in both base and wall cabinets.Shelves that rotate offer effective storage and facilitate easier access to objects.
Pull-Out Shelves and Trays
Pull-out shelves and trays are another popular solution for corner cabinets. These shelves can be installed on ball-bearing slides and are activated when the cabinet door is opened or a lever is pulled. They bring items stored in the back of the cabinet to the front, making them easily accessible.
Corner Drawers
A chic and contemporary fix for corner cabinets is a set of corner drawers. These drawers make use of the full corner space rather than just the shelves. These corner drawers will give you plenty of storage and simple access to your belongings. And you can alter it as per your needs and taste.
Swing-Out Shelving Systems
Swing-out shelving systems are designed to maximize corner cabinet storage. These systems feature shelves that pivot and slide out from the corner, allowing for better visibility and access to stored items.
They are a versatile solution that can be customized to fit different cabinet sizes and configurations.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is organizing the corner kitchen cabinet important?
Because it maximizes storage space, improves accessibility, and reduces clutter in your kitchen. It allows you to efficiently store and retrieve items, making your cooking and meal preparation experience more enjoyable.
What are some common challenges with corner kitchen cabinets?
Corner kitchen cabinets often have deep and hard-to-reach corners, making it easy for items to get lost or forgotten. The odd shape of these cabinets can also make it difficult to find suitable storage solutions.
Can I store large items in my corner kitchen cabinet?
Corner kitchen cabinets are perfect for storing large items that don’t fit in regular upper cabinets. Platters, bowls, and oversized kitchenware can all be stored in the corner cabinet, freeing up space in other areas of your kitchen.
