Blind corner cabinets can be one of the trickiest areas to organize in your kitchen. These cabinets often have a lot of unused space because they’re hard to reach and see into. But with a few smart solutions, you can make the most of this awkward space and transform your kitchen. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you get started.
Table Of Contents
1. | Plan Your Blind Corner Cabinet Solutions |
2. | Clever Solutions for Blind Corner Cabinets |
3. | DIY Blind Corner Cabinet Solutions |
4. | Maximize Space in Blind Corner Cabinets |
5. | Budget-Friendly Blind Corner Cabinet Solutions |
6. | Making the Most of Small Kitchens |
Understanding the Problem with Blind Corner Cabinets
What Are Blind Corner Cabinets?
Blind corner cabinets are the cabinets located in the corners of your kitchen, where two rows of cabinets meet at a right angle. They are called “blind” because a portion of the cabinet is hidden and hard to access.
Common Issues
- Inaccessibility: Items stored in the back are hard to reach.
- Wasted Space: A lot of the cabinet space goes unused.
- Disorganization: It is easy for these cabinets to become cluttered.
Plan Your Blind Corner Cabinet Solutions
Assess Your Needs
Before you start organizing, think about what you need to store. Do you have bulky pots and pans, small appliances, or pantry items that need a home? Knowing what you need to store will help you choose the best solution.
Measure Your Space
Measure the dimensions of your blind corner cabinets. This will help you understand what kind of solutions will fit and how much space you have to work with.
Clever Solutions for Blind Corner Cabinets
Pull-Out Shelves
Pull-out shelves are a great way to make items in your blind corner cabinets more accessible. These shelves slide out smoothly, allowing you to reach items stored in the back with ease.
How To Install Pull-Out Shelves
- Choose the Right Shelves: Look for shelves that fit the dimensions of your cabinet.
- Prepare the Cabinet: Remove any existing shelves or items.
- Install the Rails: Attach the rails to the sides of the cabinet.
- Attach the Shelves: Slide the shelves onto the rails and secure them in place.
Lazy Susans
A Lazy Susan is a rotating tray that allows you to spin the shelf to reach items in the back. This is a popular and effective solution for blind corner cabinets.
Types of Lazy Susans
- Half-Moon Lazy Susan: Fits into half of the cabinet and swings out.
- Full-Round Lazy Susan: Rotates 360 degrees, allowing you to reach all areas.
- D-Shaped Lazy Susan: Offers more surface area and fits into curved spaces.
Corner Drawers
Corner drawers are an innovative solution that makes use of the corner space with drawers that slide out at an angle. These drawers provide easy access and can be used for storing utensils, small appliances and more.
How To Install Corner Drawers
- Measure the Space: Ensure you have enough room for the drawers to open fully.
- Choose Your Drawers: Look for pre-made corner drawers or have them custom-built.
- Install the Drawers: Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for installation.
Swing-Out Shelves
Swing-out shelves are mounted on hinges and swing out when the cabinet door is opened, making it easy to see and reach items stored inside.
How To Install Swing-Out Shelves
- Choose the Shelves: Find shelves that fit your cabinet and can be mounted on hinges.
- Install the Hinges: Attach the hinges to the inside of the cabinet door and the shelves.
- Attach the Shelves: Secure the shelves to the hinges, ensuring they swing out smoothly.
Pull-Out Tray Systems
Pull-out tray systems consist of multiple trays that slide out independently, allowing you to access items stored at different levels.
How To Install Pull-Out Tray Systems
- Measure Your Cabinet: Ensure the trays will fit comfortably.
- Install the Rails: Attach the rails to the sides of the cabinet.
- Attach the Trays: Slide the trays onto the rails and secure them.
DIY Blind Corner Cabinet Solutions
Tension Rod Dividers
Tension rod dividers are an inexpensive and easy DIY solution for organizing your blind corner cabinets. These rods can be used to create sections within the cabinet, making it easier to store and access items.
How To Install Tension Rod Dividers
- Measure the Space: Determine the length of the tension rods needed.
- Install the Rods: Place the rods horizontally within the cabinet to create sections.
- Organize Items: Use the sections to organize pots, pans, lids and other items.
Pegboard Inserts
Pegboard inserts can be used to create customizable storage solutions within your blind corner cabinets. By adding hooks and shelves, you can organize items of various sizes.
How To Install Pegboard Inserts
- Cut the Pegboard: Cut the pegboard to fit the dimensions of your cabinet.
- Install the Pegboard: Secure the pegboard to the back and sides of the cabinet.
- Add Hooks and Shelves: Use hooks and shelves to organize your items.
Lazy Susan DIY
If you are handy, you can create your own Lazy Susan using a few basic materials.
Materials Needed
- Two round wooden boards
- Lazy Susan bearing
- Screws
- Drill
Steps
- Attach the Bearing: Attach the Lazy Susan bearing to the bottom of one of the wooden boards.
- Attach the Top Board: Secure the second wooden board to the top of the bearing.
- Install in Cabinet: Place the DIY Lazy Susan in your cabinet and start organizing.
Maximize Space in Blind Corner Cabinets
Utilize Vertical Space
Use stackable bins and shelves to make the most of the vertical space in your blind corner cabinets. This allows you to store more items without creating clutter.
Types of Stackable Storage
- Wire Shelves: Add extra shelving space without permanent installation.
- Stackable Bins: Great for storing smaller items and keeping them organized.
- Tiered Shelves: Perfect for spices, cans and other pantry items.
Use Clear Containers
Clear containers make it easy to see what’s stored inside, reducing the need to dig around in your blind corner cabinets. Label the containers to keep everything organized.
Types of Clear Containers
- Plastic Bins: Durable and available in various sizes.
- Glass Jars: Great for storing dry goods and keeping them fresh.
- Acrylic Organizers: Perfect for small items like spices and snacks.
Lighting Solutions
Adding lighting to your blind corner cabinets can make it easier to see and access items. Consider installing battery-operated LED lights or adhesive light strips.
Types of Cabinet Lighting
- Puck Lights: Small, round lights that can be mounted inside cabinets.
- Strip Lights: Adhesive strips that provide even lighting across the cabinet.
- Motion-Sensor Lights: Turn on automatically when the cabinet door is opened.
Keep Your Blind Corner Cabinets Organized
Regular Maintenance
Keep your blind corner cabinets organized by regularly cleaning and decluttering. Remove items you no longer need and make sure everything is in its designated place.
Tips for Maintenance
- Weekly Check: Spend a few minutes each week tidying up.
- Seasonal Clean: Do a thorough clean and declutter each season.
- Label Everything: Make it easy to find and return items to their proper place.
Smart Storage Solutions
Use smart storage solutions like pull-out baskets and tiered organizers to keep your blind corner cabinets neat and accessible.
Types of Smart Storage
- Pull-Out Baskets: Easy to slide out and access items.
- Tiered Organizers: Keep items visible and within reach.
- Door-Mounted Racks: Utilize the inside of cabinet doors for extra storage.
Customized Solutions
If you have unique storage needs, consider customized solutions. Custom-built shelves, drawers, and organizers can make the most of your blind corner cabinets.
Working with a Professional
- Consult a Designer: Work with a kitchen designer to create custom solutions.
- DIY Customization: If you’re handy, create your own custom storage solutions.
Budget-Friendly Blind Corner Cabinet Solutions
Repurpose Items
Look around your home for items that can be repurposed for storage in your blind corner cabinets. Old baskets, bins and containers can be given new life with a little creativity.
Ideas for Repurposing
- Baskets: Use for storing pantry items or cleaning supplies.
- Mason Jars: Perfect for organizing small items.
- Magazine Holders: Great for storing cutting boards and baking sheets.
Shop Sales and Discounts
Keep an eye out for sales and discounts on storage solutions. Many stores offer great deals on organizers, shelves and other storage items.
Tips for Finding Deals
- Seasonal Sales: Shop during major holidays for the best deals.
- Online Discounts: Look for online sales and use discount codes.
- Thrift Stores: Find unique and affordable storage solutions.
DIY Projects
Save money by tackling some DIY projects. Building your own shelves, Lazy Susans and organizers can be cost-effective and rewarding.
Resources for DIY Projects
- Online Tutorials: Find step-by-step guides and videos.
- Community Workshops: Join local workshops to learn new skills.
- DIY Blogs: Follow blogs for inspiration and tips.
Making the Most of Small Kitchens
Compact Solutions
In small kitchens, every inch counts. Look for compact solutions that maximize space without sacrificing functionality.
Examples of Compact Solutions
- Mini Lazy Susans: Perfect for storing spices and small items.
- Pull-Out Trays: Utilize narrow spaces efficiently.
- Corner Shelves: Make use of every corner in your kitchen.
Multi-Functional Furniture
Choose multi-functional furniture that serves more than one purpose. For example, a kitchen island with built-in storage can provide extra workspace and storage.
Types of Multi-Functional Furniture
- Kitchen Islands: Extra counter space and storage in one.
- Fold-Out Tables: Provide additional workspace when needed.
- Storage Benches: Seating and storage in a single piece.
Smart Design Choices
Make smart design choices to enhance the functionality of your kitchen. Light colors, reflective surfaces, and open shelving can make your kitchen feel larger and more open.
Design Tips
- Light Colors: Make the space feel larger and brighter.
- Reflective Surfaces: Enhance light and create a sense of space.
- Open Shelving: Keep the space open and airy while providing storage.
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