How To Use Upper Corner Cabinet Space

Upper corner cabinets, while offering ample storage, are often considered the most challenging kitchen space to utilize effectively. Their depth and awkward positioning can make accessing stored items difficult. However, with careful planning and the right tools, these cabinets can become valuable storage assets. This article explores various strategies and solutions for maximizing the functionality of upper corner cabinets.

Implement Lazy Susans

Lazy Susans are a classic solution for corner cabinet woes. These rotating trays bring items to the forefront, eliminating the need to reach deep into the cabinet. Lazy Susans come in a variety of sizes and materials, including wood, plastic, and metal, allowing homeowners to choose the best fit for their needs and aesthetic. Consider tiered lazy Susans for maximizing vertical space and accommodating items of varying heights. For heavier items, ensure the lazy Susan has a sturdy base and smooth rotation.

When installing a lazy Susan, accurate measurements of the cabinet's interior are crucial for proper fit and functionality. It's also important to consider the height of the items that will be stored on the lazy Susan in relation to the cabinet's shelves. Too tall, and the items might hit the shelf above; too short, and valuable vertical space is wasted.

Install Pull-Out Shelves

Pull-out shelves, also known as sliding shelves or roll-out trays, offer another excellent solution for maximizing corner cabinet accessibility. These shelves glide out of the cabinet, providing full visibility and easy access to stored items. They are particularly useful for storing heavier items like pots, pans, and small appliances, as they eliminate the need for lifting and reaching.

Several types of pull-out shelves are available, including those designed specifically for corner cabinets. Some models feature a kidney-shaped design that conforms to the cabinet's shape, while others utilize a pivoting mechanism to swing items out of the corner and into view. When selecting pull-out shelves, consider the weight capacity and the type of mounting hardware required for installation.

Utilize Vertical Dividers

Vertical dividers can significantly improve the organization and accessibility of items within corner cabinets. These dividers create separate compartments, preventing items from toppling over and making it easier to locate specific items. Vertical dividers are especially effective for storing baking sheets, cutting boards, and platters.

Adjustable dividers offer the most flexibility, allowing homeowners to customize the compartments to fit their specific needs. Dividers can be made of various materials, including wood, plastic, and metal. When choosing dividers, consider the depth and height of the cabinet, as well as the size and shape of the items to be stored.

Consider Diagonal or Blind Corner Organizers

Diagonal corner cabinet organizers are specifically designed to fit the unique shape of corner cabinets. These organizers often feature multiple tiers or shelves that extend diagonally into the cabinet's deepest point, providing additional storage space and making it easier to access items stored at the back. They are particularly useful for storing smaller items that might otherwise get lost in the depths of the cabinet.

Blind corner organizers address the challenge of accessing the "dead space" at the very back of a corner cabinet. These organizers typically consist of pull-out shelves or swing-out units that bring items hidden in the blind corner forward and into view. While installation can be more complex, the increased accessibility makes it a worthwhile investment for maximizing storage capacity.

Optimize Shelf Placement

Strategic shelf placement can significantly impact the usability of upper corner cabinets. Consider adjusting the height of existing shelves or adding additional shelves to create compartments that better suit the items being stored. For example, taller items like pitchers and vases might benefit from higher shelves, while smaller items like spices and canned goods can be stored on lower shelves.

Adjustable shelving systems offer the most flexibility, allowing homeowners to customize the shelf height and spacing as needed. When adjusting shelves, consider the height of the items to be stored and ensure there is enough clearance between shelves to allow for easy access.

Employ Clear Storage Containers

Regardless of the organizational system used, clear storage containers can further enhance the visibility and accessibility of items within upper corner cabinets. Clear containers allow homeowners to see the contents at a glance, eliminating the need to rummage through multiple containers to find a specific item. Labeling these containers can further improve organization and efficiency in the kitchen.

Choose containers made of durable, food-safe materials and ensure they fit comfortably within the cabinet and on chosen organizers. Consider different sizes and shapes of containers to accommodate various items and maximize space utilization within the corner cabinet.