Maximize Your Cabinet Space: Custom Shelves Double Your Storage
If your kitchen or bathroom cabinets are stuffed to the brim, it may seem like you've run out of storage options. But before you go buying new cabinetry, consider this: adding custom shelving inside your existing cabinets can double (or even triple!) the usable space.
With some basic DIY skills, you can easily install new shelves tailored to your storage needs. This opens up a world of organizational possibilities, allowing you to neatly arrange dishes, toiletries, cleaning supplies, and everything in between. No more digging through chaotic cabinets or cramming things onto overcrowded shelves!
Assessing Your Cabinet to Add Shelves
The first step is examining your cabinet to understand its physical limitations. Check how level the cabinet is and how securely it's installed to the wall. Then investigate the interior dimensions - width, height, and depth. Measure carefully, accounting for any existing shelving or hardware inside.
Consider where you want the new shelves positioned. Easy access for frequently used items? Out of reach storage for extras? Also check for wall studs, as mounting into them provides strength and stability.
Choosing Shelf Materials
When selecting shelf materials, aim for a look coherent with your existing cabinetry. Prefinished shelving offers durability and a built-in finish. With plywood, you'll need to cut each shelf to size and finish the edges. Whichever you choose, confirm the material can safely support the planned items by checking weight limits.
Getting the Right Shelf Hardware
Shelf supports connect your shelving securely inside the cabinet. Opt for adjustable supports to enable custom shelf heights in the future. Corner brackets provide additional structural support and prevent tipping. Floating shelves can create extra space in inventive ways. Collect any other necessary hardware like screws or bolts.
Installing Your New Shelves
With all your materials and plans in place, it's go time! First, measure your cabinet again and cut shelves to size. Sand any rough edges. Then arrange your shelf supports at desired heights within the cabinet and attach by screwing into wall studs. Carefully place the shelves atop the supports and use corner brackets or provided hardware to anchor them.
Now examine your handiwork. Are the shelves sturdy without sagging or wobbling? Place heavy items on them and gently push to test strength. Make any needed adjustments before loading everything in.
Maximizing Your New Storage Space
When organizing your revamped cabinets, think smartly about item placement based on frequency of use. Position often used dishes and toiletries at eye level for quick access. Reserve higher shelves for extras like party dishes or backup shampoo. Categorize like items together - mugs with mugs, towels with towels.
Containers, baskets and shelf dividers keep small items corralled. Labelling helps identify contents at a glance. Regular purging ensures you only store items you actually use.
Tips for Shelf Installation Success
To ensure an easy, flawless shelf installation, keep these tips in mind:
- Test cabinet weight limits first
- Use adjustable shelf supports
- Install corner brackets in tricky spots
- Opt for floating shelves to save space
- Add lighting if the area is dark
- Match your shelf color to existing cabinetry
With the right plan and materials, you can create custom shelving that perfectly fits your storage needs. No more bursting cabinets! Put that wasted space to good use.
As you can see, installing new shelving inside your kitchen or bathroom cabinets is an easy weekend project with dramatic payoffs. By maximizing unused space, you can double or triple your usable storage area.
Follow the steps to assess your cabinet, select materials, and methodically install everything for a custom storage solution. Use smart organization tactics - like labels, baskets and placement based on frequency of use - to make the most of the new space.
Chaosy cabinets get a new lease on life with a storage upgrade. Every item in its place means no more frustrating searches. Your newly spacious cabinet interiors keep all your household necessities neatly arranged yet readily accessible.