The 10 Things You Should Never Store on Open Kitchen Shelving

Open kitchen shelving has become increasingly popular in recent years, offering both style and function to your kitchen space. However, not all items are suitable for storage on open shelves, as they can become unsightly, attract dust and grease, or even pose safety hazards. Here are the 10 things you should never store on open kitchen shelving.


  1. Unsealed food containers

    Unsealed food containers can attract pests and spoil quickly, causing unpleasant odors and potential health risks. Store your food items in sealed containers or cabinets to ensure their freshness and safety.

  2. Heavy appliances

    Large and heavy appliances such as blenders, mixers, and pressure cookers can be difficult to access and pose a safety hazard if they fall. Store them in lower cabinets or on sturdy countertops.

  3. Glassware and fragile items

    Glassware and fragile items such as vases and delicate plates can easily break or shatter if they fall from open shelves. Keep them in enclosed cabinets or choose sturdy and well-supported shelving options.

  4. Small utensils

    Small utensils such as measuring spoons, forks, and knives can get lost or become cluttered on open shelves. Consider using drawer organizers or enclosed containers to store them neatly.

  5. Cleaning supplies

    Cleaning supplies such as sprays and detergents can attract grease and dust, making them unsightly and potentially harmful. Store them in closed cabinets or in a separate cleaning closet.

  6. Plastic containers

    Plastic containers can easily warp and stain, making them unattractive for display. Consider storing them in drawers or closed cabinets.

  7. Cookbooks

    Cookbooks can take up valuable shelf space and may attract dust or grease. Consider storing them in a dedicated bookshelf or on lower shelves away from food and cooking areas.

  8. Excessive decor

    Too much decor can clutter open shelves and make them difficult to access. Choose a few decorative items that complement your kitchen's style and color scheme.

  9. Expired food items

    Expired food items can pose health risks and should be discarded immediately. Regularly check your open shelves for expired items and dispose of them properly.

  10. Loose spices

    Loose spices can spill easily and become cluttered on open shelves. Use sealed containers or a designated spice rack to keep them organized and easily accessible.

What should I put on my open shelves in kitchen?

A: When it comes to open shelves in the kitchen, it's all about striking the right balance between style and function. Here are a few items that work well on open shelves:

  • Matching dishware and glassware
  • Cookbooks and recipe holders
  • Decorative items such as vases, plants, and art pieces
  • Colorful canisters and jars for dry goods
  • Potted herbs for a functional and attractive touch
  • A few well-placed appliances such as mixers or blenders
  • Vintage or antique kitchen items for a unique look

Q: Are open shelves in kitchen a good idea?

A: Open shelves in the kitchen can be a great idea for many reasons. They can make your space look larger and more airy, provide easy access to frequently used items, and serve as a display area for your favorite kitchen items. However, they can also require more upkeep and cleaning than closed cabinets, and may not be suitable for storing certain items.

Q: What are disadvantages of shelving?

A: While open shelves can provide a number of benefits, they also come with a few potential disadvantages. Some of these include:

  • The need for regular cleaning to prevent dust and grease buildup
  • The potential for items to fall or become disorganized
  • Exposure to sunlight or moisture, which can damage certain items
  • Limited storage space compared to closed cabinets
  • The need to curate items for display, which can be time-consuming and require a certain aesthetic sense.

Q: How do you keep dishes clean on open shelves?

A: To keep dishes clean on open shelves, it's important to be diligent about wiping them down regularly to prevent dust and grease buildup. You may also want to consider investing in dish covers or using dish towels to cover plates and bowls when they're not in use. Additionally, it's important to choose sturdy, well-supported shelving that won't wobble or tilt, which can increase the risk of items falling or becoming damaged.

In conclusion, open kitchen shelving can be both stylish and functional when used correctly. Avoid storing the 10 items listed above to ensure a clutter-free, safe, and attractive kitchen space.


Open Shelf Organization Ideas

Open shelves can add style and function to any kitchen, but they can also be challenging to organize. Here are a few open shelf organization ideas to help you make the most of your space:


  1. Group similar items together: Grouping similar items together, such as glassware or plates, can help create a cohesive look and make it easier to find what you need.

  2. Use baskets or bins: Using baskets or bins can help corral small items and prevent them from getting lost or cluttered on your shelves.

  3. Incorporate decorative items: Adding a few decorative items, such as plants or vases, can help break up the monotony of dishes and add visual interest to your shelves.

  4. Consider adding lighting: Adding lighting to your open shelves can help highlight your favorite items and create a warm and inviting atmosphere in your kitchen.

Kitchen Shelving Ideas

Open shelving in the kitchen can be a great way to add storage and style. Here are a few kitchen shelving ideas to help you get started:

  1. Mix and match: Mixing and matching different types of shelving, such as wood and metal, can add visual interest to your space and create a unique look.

  2. Go minimal: Embracing a minimalist aesthetic can help create a clean and uncluttered look on your shelves.

  3. Use bold colors: Painting your shelves a bold color, such as navy or green, can add a pop of color to your kitchen and make a statement.

  4. Add texture: Incorporating textured items, such as woven baskets or ceramic pieces, can add depth and interest to your shelves.

Shelf in the Kitchen

A shelf in the kitchen can serve many purposes, from storage to display. Here are a few ways to make the most of your kitchen shelf:

  1. Use it for frequently used items: Keeping frequently used items, such as spices or cooking oils, on your kitchen shelf can make them easily accessible while cooking.

  2. Display your favorite items: Displaying your favorite items, such as vintage kitchenware or cookbooks, can add personality and style to your space.

  3. Create a coffee station: Using your kitchen shelf to create a coffee station, complete with a coffee maker and mugs, can add a cozy touch to your kitchen.

  4. Use it for extra storage: If you're short on cabinet space, using a kitchen shelf for extra storage can help keep your space organized and functional.

Decorating Kitchen Shelves

Decorating kitchen shelves can be a fun and creative way to add style and personality to your space. Here are a few tips to help you decorate your kitchen shelves:

  1. Keep it simple: Avoid overcrowding your shelves by keeping your decor simple and minimal.

  2. Use practical items: Incorporating practical items, such as cutting boards or utensil holders, can add style and function to your shelves.

  3. Add pops of color: Adding pops of color, such as colorful plates or patterned bowls, can add visual interest and personality to your shelves.

  4. Play with height: Varying the height of your items, such as using tall vases or short mugs, can add dimension and visual interest to your shelves.

How to Display Dishes on Open Shelves

Displaying dishes on open shelves can be a beautiful and functional way to organize your kitchen. Here are a few tips for displaying dishes on open shelves:

  1. Group by color: Grouping dishes by color can create a cohesive and visually appealing look on your shelves.

  2. Use vertical space: Using vertical space, such as stacking plates or using tiered stands, can help make the most of your shelf space.

  3. Vary the sizes: Using dishes of different sizes and shapes can add visual interest and create a unique look

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