Having a clean and organized home helps me feel more relaxed and focused, and that definitely extends to my kitchen. A tidy fridge, clear countertops, and everything in its place make daily routines run more smoothly. Growing up, I didn’t give much thought to organization or how things were arranged, but my mom was a master at keeping our house picture-perfect, and over time, I picked up a lot of her clever storage strategies.

One of the best tips she ever gave me was how to make the most of those awkward cupboards above the refrigerator. At first glance, they seem too high, too narrow, and too inconvenient to be of much use. But once you understand what they’re best for, those little cabinets can actually become some of the most valuable storage real estate in your kitchen. For starters, they’re perfect for storing kitchen appliances that you don’t use every day. Things like blenders, food processors, waffle irons, and other bulky gadgets can be tucked away up there where they won’t take up precious space in your lower cabinets or clutter your counters. You still have them when you need them, but they’re out of sight and out of mind the rest of the time.

Those upper cupboards are also a great place to store canned goods and dry baking supplies. Items like flour, sugar, baking soda, and canned vegetables or soups have long shelf lives and don’t require frequent access, so it makes sense to store backup supplies up high. This helps free up pantry space for the items you use more often while giving you the ability to buy in bulk and keep your kitchen well-stocked. If you’re someone who loves collecting cookbooks, you know how quickly they can pile up. Instead of letting them clutter your kitchen counters or bookshelves, store the ones you don’t use regularly in the cupboard above the fridge. They’ll stay safe, clean, and neatly tucked away until you’re ready to pull them down for inspiration.

You can also use those upper cabinets to organize pantry overflow. Add a few small storage racks or baskets, and suddenly that awkward space becomes an efficient mini-pantry. Store extra spices, snack packs, or rarely used ingredients in clearly labeled containers so you always know what’s up there. I’ve even used that space to store kitchen towels and cloth napkins that I buy in bulk—items that are light, easy to stack, and don’t need to be retrieved daily.

Another genius use for the cupboards above the fridge is to store fine china, special-occasion dishware, or anything you want to keep out of reach of small children or pets. These items are usually only used a few times a year, and placing them up high keeps them protected from accidental bumps or breaks. It’s also a great place for seasonal serving trays or dishes you only bring out for holidays. While these cabinets offer plenty of potential, there are a few things to keep in mind to use them safely and efficiently. Always use a strong, stable step stool when reaching up high, especially if you’re handling anything breakable. Don’t store anything that’s too heavy or difficult to lift down safely—this is not the place for your cast-iron dutch oven or giant stand mixer. And remember that refrigerators give off heat, so it’s best to avoid storing heat-sensitive items like chocolate, oils, or certain medications in those upper cupboards. Instead, stick to durable, dry goods that won’t be affected by a little warmth. What once seemed like an impractical or even useless spot in the kitchen is now one of my favorite hidden storage areas, all thanks to my mom’s smart advice. Whether you live in a small apartment or a spacious home, finding creative ways to maximize storage is key—and those little cabinets above the fridge are a surprisingly great place to start.