You can put a wide variety of items on top of your refrigerator, depending on the size and type of refrigerator you own. If your refrigerator has a flat top, then some common items that can be placed there include a microwave, a toaster, coffee maker, cookbook, mixers, or decorative items such as houseplants or art pieces.
If your refrigerator has an angled top, you can place larger items such as storage baskets, small bookshelves, or a small refrigerator open to decorate the space. Additionally, you can place pictures, magnets, decorative jars, or any small items that personalize the space.
Lastly, if you have extra space, consider placing some larger items such as small furniture, lamps, or even a plant stand to add color and a cozy touch to the area.
What can I put over my fridge instead of cabinets?
There are a variety of storage options you can consider for above your refrigerator instead of cabinets. Depending on the size and shape of the area, you could choose a tall shelf or an open shelving unit.
This is a great option to make use of the vertical space and provides easy access to items you may need on a regular basis. Alternatively, a cabinet with doors provides an attractive solution to hide away items when they’re not in use.
If you need more storage options, a suspended floor-to-ceiling pantry with adjustable shelves and drawers can help keep items neat and organized. For an easy but unexpected solution, consider hanging wall-mounted hooks or pegs above the refrigerator to hang mugs, kitchen utensils, or other kitchen items in an aesthetically pleasing way.
Finally, you could also hang art to create an eye-catching feature.
How can I cover the space above my refrigerator?
The space above your refrigerator can be covered in a variety of ways, depending on your preferences. One option is to install custom cabinetry, either on top of the refrigerator or above, depending on how much space there is.
This will allow you to customize the cabinets to fit the exact space, and the finishes and colors can be chosen to match the rest of your kitchen. Additionally, a storage cabinet could be added to the top of the refrigerator, or shelves could be added to create additional storage.
Another option is to use a wall-mounted shelf or shelving system, which can provide additional storage and accommodate various items such as cookbooks, baking supplies and other kitchen items. The shelves could be mounted on the wall around the refrigerator, so that the space is still functional and not filled with clutter.
Finally, you could add a decorative valance or a window treatment to the area above the refrigerator to add a decorative finishing touch to the space.
How do I make my refrigerator look built in?
To make your refrigerator look built-in, the first step is to measure the spot where it will go. You’ll need to make sure the fridge fits correctly, with enough room for doors to open comfortably. Once you have accurate measurements, you can purchase cabinetry panels that match your kitchen design and are large enough to encompass the entire fridge.
You’ll then attach the panels to the walls surrounding the fridge with screws or nails. To create a more seamless look, cut the panels to fit around the handles without taking away too much of the panels’ stability.
You can also add trim pieces to help achieve the finished look.
If desired, a countertop can be added to the front of the refrigerator. Similarly, measure and cut to the fridge’s dimensions and attach it with screws. Making sure there’s ample room for the doors to open, place the countertop over the handles with the edges facing down.
You’ll also need to seal any areas where moisture could get in.
You’ll then need to install the door panels. To do this, you’ll need to remove the existing fridge doors, then measure and cut the new door panels to size. Attach the panels to the fronts of the doors using screws or nails, making sure to leave enough room for the doors to open properly.
Finally, attach the handles to the sides of the doors.
With the cabinet panels, countertop and door panels installed, your fridge should now appear to be built-in.
Do you need a cabinet above fridge?
It is not essential to have a cabinet above the fridge, however, there are several benefits to doing so. Having a cabinet above the fridge can give you additional storage space that would otherwise be unused.
This space can be used to store kitchen staples such as spices, seasonings, and oils. Additionally, if your refrigerator is located in an area that is visible from the living room or dining room, a cabinet above it can be a good choice since it can be used to store oft-used items, but also provide a neat, finished look for the room.
If there is already a cabinet above the fridge, consider adding in a few shelves or another cabinet in order to make better use of the space. Ultimately, whether or not to add a cabinet above the fridge is a personal choice, but it can be beneficial if used in the right way.
Why are there cabinets above the fridge?
Cabinets above the refrigerator are typically used to store frequently used items and serve as an additional workspace. Having a dedicated cabinet in this area allows for quick and easy access to items stored in the cabinet and negates the need for those items to be stored on the counter.
Additionally, having a cabinet above the refrigerator allows for a more efficient use of space in the kitchen and eliminates the need for additional furniture. Cabinets above the refrigerator often store items such as cookbooks, baking trays, spices and other baking items.
Because these items are used often, having them readily accessible allows the cook to be more productive and efficient in the kitchen.
Is it OK to put a microwave on top of a fridge?
Yes, it is usually okay to put a microwave on top of a fridge. However, bear in mind that both the fridge and the microwave will generate heat and you should ensure that there is adequate ventilation between them to allow the heat generated to dissipate.
Additionally, make sure that the weight of the microwave is not too heavy for the refrigerator to hold and that there is no potential for these two appliances to interfere with each other’s power supply or cause an electrical overload.
Finally, ensure that the microwave does not obstruct the refrigerator’s exhaust vent.
Can you put panels on any refrigerator?
No, you cannot put panels on any refrigerator. This is because not all refrigerators are designed to accommodate panels. Some refrigerators have a recessed design that does not allow for any overlay panels to be added.
Other refrigerator models may not have the necessary cutouts or holes to properly attach the panels. Additionally, some refrigerator doors are made from materials that can not support a panel’s weight or may not be compatible with the panel’s glue.
Before purchasing panels for a refrigerator, it is important to double-check if the particular refrigerator model is panel ready.
How do I hide my free standing fridge?
If you want to hide your free standing fridge, there are several options. The first is to buy a fridge cover, which is designed to slide over your fridge. This will give it an extra layer of protection from dust and dirt, as well as obscuring its appearance.
Another option is to purchase tall furniture, such as a cabinet, bookshelf, or wardrobe, and place it around your fridge. This will both protect your appliance, as well as making it almost invisible.
Additionally, some companies make refrigerator wraps. These wraps are printed in a variety of designs, and again are designed to slide over the appliance to give it a more attractive look. Finally, you could paint your fridge to match the decor of the room.
This would be an ideal option if you have a fridge with a smooth, glossy finish.
How much does it cost to make your fridge look like a cabinet?
The cost to make your fridge look like a cabinet will depend on several factors, such as what type of material you use, the size and brand of fridge you have, and the complexity of the transformation.
You will need to factor in the cost of materials to build or purchase doors that are intended to be aesthetically pleasing, as well as the cost of installation. If you hire a contractor, the actual cost of labour to install the doors and hardware can add significantly to your total cost.
Generally speaking, the transformation could range anywhere from a minimal cost of around $100 to upwards of several hundred dollars.
Should you store things on top of fridge?
It is generally not recommended to store items on top of a refrigerator. This is because it can be a fire hazard and can block heat from being released from the refrigerator’s cooling system and potentially cause it to malfunction.
Additionally, because refrigerators vibrate when they operate, heavy objects can cause the appliance to become unbalanced, leading to increased energy use and potentially damaging components. It can also be a safety hazard if items become loose and fall on anyone below.
Ultimately, it is best to keep objects away from the top of the refrigerator, as well as any other nearby appliances.
What is the proper way to store food in a refrigerator?
The proper way to store food in a refrigerator is to ensure that the appliance remains at a safe internal temperature. According to the USDA, the refrigerator should be set to 40°F (4°C) or below in order to properly store and preserve food.
Additionally, it is important to keep items properly stored and organized in the refrigerator with like items together. This will prevent contamination and potential food poisoning.
Foods that require refrigeration should be stored on shelves and in containers that are easy to clean. Raw meats, poultry, and seafood should always be stored on the bottom shelf of the refrigerator away from other foods and placed on a plate or tray to prevent their juices from dripping onto other food items.
Fruits and vegetables should be stored in the crisper drawer, while leftovers should be stored in sealed containers or tightly wrapped in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. Dairy, eggs, and eggs products should be stored on shelves in the main compartment of the refrigerator.
Finally, pay attention to the expiration dates on food products and discard any that have gone past their expiration date. Remember to also periodically check for and discard any food that has become spoiled or compromised.
Where is the coldest part of the fridge?
The coldest part of the fridge is typically the back of the top shelf, because it is the furthest away from the heat of the motor and is surrounded by the coldest air from the freezer. The bottom and middle shelves tend to be slightly warmer spots in the refrigerator.
Additionally, it is best to manage the airflow within the fridge by not overcrowding shelves and leaving at least an inch of space between items. This will allow cold air to flow properly and further ensure that the top shelf remains the coldest spot.
Where should milk be stored in the fridge?
Milk should be stored in the back of the refrigerator, where it is coldest. This allows it to remain at a consistent temperature and prevents spoilage. When storing milk in the refrigerator, make sure it is covered and sealed tightly.
This prevents other food in the fridge from absorbing its odor and taste. Additionally, pay attention to the expiration date on the milk container. To maintain freshness, milk should be consumed prior to the expiration date.