Most people think these cupboards are pointless. Here’s how to properly use them!

Most People Think These Cupboards Are Pointless — Here’s How to Properly Use Them!

Have you ever looked at those tiny, awkward cupboards above your fridge or under your counter
and thought, “What’s the point?” You’re not alone. Many people overlook these spaces or leave them empty, assuming they’re too small, too high, or just plain useless.

But here’s the truth: those “pointless” cupboards are actually prime real estate — and when used the right way, they can transform your kitchen storage game.

Let’s uncover how to properly use these overlooked cabinets and make the most of every inch of your kitchen.

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📦 1. The Cupboard Above the Fridge: Hidden Storage Gold

Why it feels useless: It’s hard to reach, deep, and usually out of your line of sight.

How to use it smartly:

• Store rarely used appliances like waffle makers, food dehydrators, or holiday dishware.

• Keep extra pantry stock like canned goods, paper towels, or unopened snacks.

• Use bins or baskets to group items so they’re easier to pull out and access.

🧠 Pro Tip: Label baskets so you always know what’s up there without guessing.

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☕ 2. The Small Cabinet Over the Microwave or Stove

Why it feels awkward: It’s narrow and often sits above a heat source.

Smart storage idea:

• Great for storing baking sheets, cutting boards, or cooling racks upright.

• Use for spices, oils, or tea boxes (if not too close to heat).

• Install a vertical divider for easier organization.

⚠️ Watch out: Avoid storing heat-sensitive items like chocolate or medicine here if it gets warm.

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🍽 3. Tiny Drawers Near the Floor: Toe-Kick Drawers

Why people ignore them: They're super low and not obvious.

How to use them:

• Store flat items like placemats, baking trays, or large cutting boards.

• Great for pet bowls, stored toys, or even emergency supplies.

• Install them in unused toe-kick space beneath cabinets for hidden storage.

💡 Bonus Tip: If your kitchen doesn’t have them — they can often be retrofitted!

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🥫 4. Deep Corner Cabinets (a.k.a. the “Lost” Zone)

Why it’s frustrating: It’s hard to reach the back, and things get lost easily.

How to fix it:

• Add a lazy Susan or pull-out shelves to make items easy to grab.

• Use it for bulk storage — think backup pantry items, large pots, or seasonal cookware.

📦 Organize by category so you always know what’s hiding in the back.

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🍷 5. Tall, Thin Cupboards

Why it feels useless: Too narrow for most items, so it sits empty or cluttered.

Best uses:

• Broom and mop storage (especially in open-concept kitchens).

• Install slim shelves for storing spices, oils, or bottles of vinegar and wine.

• Great for storing foil, plastic wrap, parchment paper, or reusable grocery bags.

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🧼 Bonus: Turn “Pointless” into Purpose

Sometimes, the issue isn’t the cupboard — it’s the lack of a clear plan. With a little creativity and the right accessories (like shelf risers, organizers, or pull-out baskets), even the weirdest kitchen cupboard can become the most functional.

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Final Thoughts

Those seemingly “pointless” cupboards in your kitchen aren’t design mistakes — they’re untapped potential. With a little rethinking, they can solve your biggest storage headaches and make your kitchen work smarter, not harder.

So before you write them off, give them a second look — and let them surprise you.