
Happy Organized Cabinets
Items stored at the back of cavernous cabinet shelves are not only hard to find, but difficult to retrieve. Simple cabinet modifications can make your items easier to locate and grab.
Add sliding shelves on the lower cabinets. Pots and small appliances stored on the bottom shelves are hidden completely in the dark unless they can be pulled out into view. Sliding shelves make tracking down items easier and reduces the need for painful bending and stretching.
Mount shelves on cabinet doors to create extra storage space. Instead of reaching into the cabinet, slim shelves reveal everything right on the door. For increased accessibility, modify the cabinet hinges to allow the doors to swing open 180 degrees. Interior shelving in these cabinets will have to be made shallower to accommodate the door shelves.
Upper and corner cabinets can use a lazy-susan. Hard-to-reach items in deep cabinets become more available when they can be spun around to the front of the shelf. A single, inexpensive lazy-susan can be purchased in a home supply store and simply placed on a shelf. A professional can install multi-tiered turntables, typically used in corner cabinets. These revolving shelves, which are available in many styles and variations, allow the greatest access in areas that are difficult to reach.
To keep cabinet items from toppling into disarray, add shelf dividers. Wooden brackets can be installed permanently for the greatest stability. This is best for cabinets containing heavier appliances and utensils. Temporary dividers can also be purchased ready to use, and are great for storing and organizing pot lids, dishtowels, and containers. They are available in many materials, including wire, acrylic, and plastic. Think about the desired function before buying shelf dividers, as you will want to match the strength and durability to your needs.
Make a plan based on all your cabinet needs, and you will be sure to find the right shelves and dividers to make your life more organized.
Back to top
|