Tips for Improving the Functionality of Kitchen StoragePull-out drawers for cabinets. During a kitchen remodel several years ago, I made the decision to paint my kitchen cabinets rather than replace them. Although this was the right decision from a budget perspective, my older cabinets did not have all the bells and whistles new cabinets offer. Even though my kitchen looks great, storage was a problem. My lower cabinets are quite deep, and pots, pans and small appliances have always been difficult to access. Keeping the contents organized was often problematic. Lesser used items were often shoved into the back and were difficult to find when needed. My solution was to install slide-out drawers in the lower cabinets. I carefully measured the dimensions of the cabinets, noting any obstacles such electrical conduits or gas lines. I also measured my pots, pans and small appliances to make sure they would fit in the new drawers.There are a variety of slide-out cabinet drawers available in wood or metal from multiple vendors. I recommend reading the reviews carefully before purchasing. If you have heavy cast iron cookware you will want a product that can accommodate the weight. Also, ...
Vertical Storage for cutting boards, trays, and cookie sheets. Many newer kitchens have cabinets with vertical storage for cookie sheets, trays and cutting boards. Since I wasn’t fortunate to have a tall vertical storage space, I stashed these items in a large drawer under my oven. Items rested on top of each other and it was always difficult to find what I was looking for. My solution was to remove the middle shelf from a small lower cabinet so I would have enough height to store taller items. I purchased a metal slide-out organizer that was designed for storing large trays, cutting boards and cookie sheets. Once again, I read reviews carefully to make sure the organizer was sturdy and the hardware rolled out smoothly. The design makes it easy to quickly find what I am looking for and to put items away after use. It was such a simple solution to an annoying storage problem. I highly recommend making the change if your kitchen allows for it.
Another option for overhead storage in a garage is to install racks that attach to the ceiling. Several of our clients have used this solution because they did not have a high ceiling in their garage. Confirm with your contractor or handyman regarding weight limitations.If you are not in the position to remodel your home, there are many practical storage products available for a variety of needs. With a little research and creativity, you might be able to improve some frustrating areas of your home.More on HouzzHow to Work With a Professional OrganizerGet design ideasFind a professional organizer in the Houzz pro directoryBrowse products...
Blind corner lazy Susan. I have a deep, lower cabinet in the corner of my kitchen that is extremely inaccessible. I use it to store serveware I don’t use often. My handyman installed a blind corner lazy Susan, which makes accessing these items so much easier. There are several models and options available depending on the size of your cabinets and whether you need a right or left pull out. Remember to measure your kitchen items carefully to make sure they will still fit after the lazy Susan is installed.
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