Boost Accessible Kitchen Storage

Summary

This article provides a step-by-step guide to enhancing your kitchen storage while improving accessibility. We explore optimizing lower cabinets, drawers, corner spaces, and vertical storage. We also cover incorporating smart solutions like pull-down organizers and adjustable countertops. This article also looks at ways to improve the general value of your home and how to combine accessible solutions with value increases.

Creating a stunning setting for home entertaining.

** Main Story**

Boosting your kitchen’s storage isn’t just about fitting more stuff in. It’s about making your kitchen a joy to use, especially when you focus on accessibility. Think about it: a well-organized and accessible kitchen not only makes cooking easier but also can significantly increase your home’s value. So, where do you start? Let’s break it down.

Step 1: Time to be honest, Evaluate What You’ve Got

First things first, take a good, hard look at your current kitchen. What’s working, and more importantly, what isn’t? Are those lower cabinets a pain to reach into? Is that corner cabinet just a black hole where things go to die? And honestly, how often do you actually use those top shelves? I know in my old apartment I had one top shelf which was entirely useless.

• Are lower cabinets difficult to access?
• Are corner cabinets underutilized?
• Do you struggle to reach high shelves?

These observations are crucial. They’ll guide your decisions and help you prioritize improvements that actually matter.

Step 2: Lower Cabinet Domination

Lower cabinets are prime real estate, no question. But they’re often underutilized or just plain difficult to access. So, what can you do?

• Pull-out shelves: Seriously, these are a game-changer. Forget bending and reaching, just pull the shelf out and everything is right there. You can find some great affordable options on Amazon these days. It’s one of those changes, that once you make it you’ll wonder how you ever lived without it.

• Adjustable shelves: One size doesn’t fit all. Adjustable shelves let you customize the space to fit your needs. Tall bottles? No problem. Short stacks of plates? Easy.

Step 3: Drawers? Yes, please!

Drawers are fantastic for keeping things organized and within easy reach. But, if you’re anything like me, they can quickly become a chaotic mess.

• Drawer dividers: These are your best friend. Utensils, tools, spices – keep everything in its place and say goodbye to the junk drawer syndrome.

• Tiered drawers: Think of these as bleachers for your stuff. You can see everything at a glance, and nothing gets lost in the back.

• Deep drawers: Pots, pans, appliances – these deserve a home that’s easy to access. Deep drawers are way better than fumbling around in a dark, cavernous cabinet.

Step 4: Corner Cabinets Conquered

Ah, the dreaded corner cabinet. It can be such a pain to reach into those deep corners. What can you do?

• Lazy Susans: These are a classic for a reason. Just spin it around and everything comes to you. No more contorting yourself to reach that one elusive spice jar. Sure, they might be a little old school, but they are still so useful.

Step 5: Reaching for the Sky (Vertical Storage)

Don’t forget to look up! Vertical space is your friend.

• Pull-down organizers: Those high cabinets? Make them accessible with pull-down shelves or racks. No more stretching or straining to reach things. They lower contents within reach, making it easy to access items without straining.

Step 6: Countertops, The Right Height?

Think about tailoring your kitchen to fit you. Adjusting countertop heights can make a huge difference in comfort and accessibility. It might seem like a small thing, but trust me, your back will thank you.

Step 7: Declutter, Declutter, Declutter!

Before you start organizing, get rid of stuff you don’t need. Be honest with yourself. Are you really going to use that panini press you bought on a whim three years ago? Probably not. Once you’ve decluttered, organize what’s left by category and frequency of use.

Step 8: Beyond the Kitchen: Boost Your Home’s Value (If You Want To)

Okay, so you’ve got a fantastic kitchen. What else can you do to boost your home’s value, particularly if you’re thinking of selling?

• Curb appeal: First impressions matter. Landscaping, a fresh coat of paint, updated fixtures – make your home look inviting from the street.

• Energy efficiency: People are increasingly aware of energy consumption. Upgrading appliances, windows, and insulation can be a big selling point.

• Smart technology: Smart thermostats, lighting, security systems – these can add convenience and appeal, especially to tech-savvy buyers. Smart home systems can be a great value add.

In conclusion, boosting your kitchen’s storage and accessibility is an investment that pays off in multiple ways. Not only will it make your daily life easier and more enjoyable, but it can also increase your home’s market value. And who doesn’t want that? Plus, a well-organized kitchen just feels good, doesn’t it?