Growing up, I always had a fascination with cooking. I remember spending hours in the kitchen, experimenting with different ingredients and flavors, and creating delicious meals for my family. But as I got older and moved into my own apartment, I realized that cooking in a small kitchen can present its own set of challenges. One of the biggest challenges is finding enough storage space for all of my kitchen essentials. That’s when I discovered the ingenious idea of utilizing the space above my microwave for storage. In this blog post, I will share some clever storage ideas for small kitchens and show you what you can store above your microwave.
Utilize Shelves
1. Spice Rack
2. Cookbooks
3. Utensil Holder
When it comes to maximizing storage in a small kitchen, shelves are your best friend. They provide a great way to utilize vertical space and keep your countertops clear. Above the microwave is the perfect spot to install some shelves, as it is often an underutilized area in the kitchen. Here are a few ideas for what you can store on these shelves:
1. Spice Rack
Spices are an essential part of any kitchen, but they can easily take up valuable cabinet space. By installing a spice rack above your microwave, you can keep your spices within easy reach, saving precious storage space for other items.
2. Cookbooks
If you’re someone who loves to cook, chances are you have a collection of cookbooks taking up space in your kitchen. Instead of letting them clutter your countertops or cabinets, why not display them proudly on a shelf above your microwave? This not only adds some personality to your kitchen but also frees up space for other items.
3. Utensil Holder
Utensils are another kitchen essential that can quickly overcrowd your drawers. By using a utensil holder above your microwave, you can easily access your most frequently used utensils while keeping them organized and within reach. This simple storage solution can make a world of difference in a small kitchen.
Hang Hooks
1. Hanging Pots and Pans
2. Coffee Mugs
3. Oven Mitts
Another clever storage idea for small kitchens is to hang hooks above your microwave. These hooks can be used to store a variety of items, saving space and keeping your kitchen organized. Here are a few ideas for what you can hang:
1. Hanging Pots and Pans
Pots and pans can take up a significant amount of cabinet space, leaving little room for other kitchen essentials. By hanging your pots and pans above your microwave, you not only free up cabinet space but also add a touch of rustic charm to your kitchen.
2. Coffee Mugs
If you’re a coffee lover like me, chances are you have a collection of mugs that you’ve accumulated over the years. Instead of taking up precious cabinet space, why not display them proudly on hooks above your microwave? This not only adds a cozy and inviting feel to your kitchen but also makes your morning coffee routine a breeze.
3. Oven Mitts
Oven mitts are one of those kitchen items that always seem to be misplaced. By hanging hooks above your microwave, you can keep your oven mitts easily accessible and within reach whenever you need them. No more searching through drawers or cabinets when you have a hot dish to handle!
Install a Floating Shelf
1. Extra Storage
2. Decorative Items
3. Small Appliances
If you’re looking for even more storage above your microwave, consider installing a floating shelf. This versatile storage solution can be customized to fit your kitchen’s style and needs. Here are a few ideas for what you can store on a floating shelf:
1. Extra Storage
In a small kitchen, every inch counts when it comes to storage. A floating shelf above your microwave can provide much-needed extra storage space for items like kitchen towels, cutting boards, or even small appliances.
2. Decorative Items
A floating shelf is also an excellent opportunity to display decorative items that add personality to your kitchen. Whether it’s a collection of vintage teapots or some colorful ceramic plates, using a floating shelf allows you to turn functional storage into a decorative focal point.
3. Small Appliances
If you have limited counter space, storing small appliances above your microwave can be a game-changer. By using a floating shelf to house items like your toaster, blender, or even a small microwave, you free up valuable countertop real estate and keep your kitchen looking clean and organized.
In conclusion, a small kitchen doesn’t have to mean limited storage space. By thinking creatively and utilizing the area above your microwave, you can maximize storage and keep your kitchen organized and functional. Whether you choose to install shelves, hang hooks, or add a floating shelf, the options are endless. So go ahead and declutter your kitchen, embrace these clever storage ideas, and enjoy the pleasure of cooking in a well-organized space!