The best way to utilize cabinets that are above eye level
It’s high and it’s deep… It’s every home kitchen’s nightmare. . This is what we recommend kitchen enthusiasts do with cabinets too high for daily-comfort!
TLDR; Store “Occasionally/Seasonally Needed” Items Only. Bonus Tip: store large items so it doesn’t become a hoarder’s paradise.
Best candidates:
- Large serving platters & holiday dishware
- Stockpots, canners, roasting pans
- Small appliances you don’t use weekly (slow cooker, waffle iron, rice cooker)
- Backup pantry items (extra paper towels, bulk dry goods)
Rule of thumb:
If you don’t reach for it at least once a week, it belongs up high.
1. Group by Occasion, Not Category
Instead of “pots” or “baking,” think:
- Entertaining box (platters, cake stands, napkin rings)
- Holiday cooking (turkey roaster, gravy boat, carving set)
- Bulk prep (large bowls, extra containers)
Use labeled bins so you’re not rummaging overhead.
2. Optimize for Weight & Safety
- Store lighter but bulky items overhead
- Avoid heavy cast iron, Dutch ovens, or glass stacks
- Place heaviest items toward the back, lighter in front
If dropping it would ruin your day (or foot), it doesn’t go up there.
3. Use Clear or Uniform Containers
Visual clarity matters when you’re reaching overhead:
- Clear bins or matching boxes
- Front-facing labels (large font)
- Shelf risers for vertical separation
You want to identify items instantly and the easiest way to do it is with painters tape (you’ve seen it on the Bear; you know what’s up)
6. Habitually Clean
Every 6–12 months… If it hasn’t been used in 2 years → donate or relocate. Life is too short to hoard and your children doesn’t want your hoard either.
Trust me