How To Use Corner Cabinets In Kitchen

Corner cabinets, notorious for their awkward accessibility, often become wasted space in kitchens. However, with thoughtful planning and the right accessories, these challenging areas can be transformed into highly functional storage zones. This article explores effective strategies for maximizing the utility of corner kitchen cabinets.

1. Implement a Lazy Susan

Lazy Susans are a classic solution for corner cabinets. These rotating trays bring hard-to-reach items to the forefront with a simple spin. Available in various sizes and materials, including wood, plastic, and metal, lazy Susans can accommodate a wide range of kitchen essentials, from spices and condiments to pots and pans. When choosing a lazy Susan, consider the cabinet's dimensions and the types of items intended for storage to ensure a proper fit and maximize space utilization.

2. Install Pull-Out Shelves

Pull-out shelves offer a significant advantage over traditional fixed shelves by providing complete access to the entire depth of the corner cabinet. These shelves glide smoothly outwards, eliminating the need to reach blindly into the back corners. Pull-out shelves can be customized to fit specific cabinet dimensions and can be designed to hold various items, from heavy cookware to smaller pantry staples. Consider tiered pull-out shelves to further enhance organization and accessibility.

3. Utilize Blind Corner Organizers

Blind corner cabinets, those with limited access due to an adjacent cabinet or appliance, can be particularly challenging. Specialized blind corner organizers are designed to address this issue. Swing-out units, often featuring multiple shelves or baskets, swing out of the cabinet, providing full access to the stored contents. These organizers bring items typically hidden in the recesses of the cabinet to the forefront, maximizing usability and minimizing wasted space.

4. Consider Corner Drawers

Corner drawers offer a clever approach to accessing the often-unused space in corner cabinets. These specially designed drawers are shaped to fit the angled contours of the corner, maximizing storage capacity. Often equipped with internal dividers or organizers, corner drawers provide efficient storage for utensils, cutlery, and smaller kitchen tools. They are a stylish and functional alternative to traditional cabinet shelving.

5. Optimize Vertical Space with Stackable Organizers

Maximize the vertical space within corner cabinets by incorporating stackable organizers. These organizers, available in various sizes and configurations, allow for efficient stacking of items, creating additional storage layers. Stackable organizers are particularly useful for storing canned goods, spices, and other pantry items, keeping them neatly arranged and easily accessible.

6. Employ Door-Mounted Storage

Don't overlook the inside of the cabinet doors for additional storage opportunities. Door-mounted racks and organizers can hold a surprising number of items, from spice jars and cleaning supplies to cutting boards and small utensils. These organizers make efficient use of often-underutilized space and keep frequently used items within easy reach. Consider installing adjustable door-mounted organizers for maximum flexibility.

7. Customize with DIY Solutions

For those seeking budget-friendly or highly customized solutions, DIY options can be an excellent choice. Building custom shelves, adding dividers, or repurposing existing storage containers can create effective corner cabinet organization systems tailored to specific needs. DIY solutions allow for creativity and personalization, ensuring the corner cabinet meets the unique storage requirements of the individual kitchen.

By implementing these strategies, homeowners can transform their corner kitchen cabinets from areas of frustration into efficient and accessible storage spaces, maximizing the functionality and organization of their kitchens.