If you have a small kitchen, you might be wondering what to do with the space between your stove and refrigerator. You don’t want to waste valuable storage or counter space, but you also don’t want to create a fire hazard or damage your appliances. So, what can you put between the stove and refrigerator space?
The best thing to put between the stove and refrigerator space is a cabinet, a shelf, or a rolling cart. These options can provide extra storage, counter space, or mobility for your kitchen. However, you should also consider the size of the gap, the type of appliances, and the building codes before choosing what to put between them.
You might be tempted to squeeze your stove and refrigerator as close as possible to save space, but this is not a good idea for several reasons:
The ideal amount of space between your stove and refrigerator depends on several factors, such as the size and shape of your kitchen, the type and model of your appliances, and your personal preference. However, as a general rule of thumb, you should aim for at least 9 inches of space between them. This will allow enough room for air circulation, safety clearance, and easy access.
However, if you have more space available, you can use it to your advantage by adding some useful features to your kitchen. Here are some ideas for what you can put between the stove and refrigerator space:
A cabinet is a classic choice for filling the gap between your stove and refrigerator. It can provide extra storage for your pots, pans, dishes, utensils, or food items. You can choose a cabinet that matches the style and color of your existing cabinets, or opt for a contrasting one for some visual interest.
You can also customize your cabinet with different features, such as drawers, shelves, doors, or hooks. For example, you can add a spice rack to store your seasonings near the stove, or a pull-out trash bin to dispose of your kitchen waste.
A shelf is another simple and practical option for using the space between your stove and refrigerator. It can offer additional counter space for preparing food, displaying decor items, or storing small appliances. You can choose a shelf that fits snugly between the appliances, or one that extends beyond them for more surface area.
You can also vary the height and depth of your shelf to suit your needs. For example, you can install a high shelf to store items that you don’t use frequently, or a low shelf to keep things within reach. You can also use brackets or hooks to hang items from the shelf.
A rolling cart is a versatile and mobile solution for filling the gap between your stove and refrigerator. It can serve as an extra work station, a serving cart, or a movable pantry. You can choose a cart that has wheels or casters so that you can easily move it around your kitchen.
You can also look for a cart that has different features, such as drawers, baskets, shelves, or racks. For example, you can use a cart with baskets to store fruits and vegetables near the refrigerator, or a cart with racks to hold wine bottles or glasses.
Q: How do I measure the space between my stove and refrigerator?
A: To measure the space between your stove and refrigerator accurately, you will need a tape measure and a pencil. First, measure the width of both appliances and add them together. Then subtract this number from the total width of your kitchen wall. This will give you the width of the gap between them.
Next, measure the height of both appliances and find the lowest one. This will give you the maximum height of the gap between them. Finally, measure the depth of both appliances and find the deepest one. This will give you the minimum depth of the gap between them.
Q: How do I install a cabinet, a shelf, or a rolling cart between my stove and refrigerator?
A: To install a cabinet, a shelf, or a rolling cart between your stove and refrigerator, you will need some basic tools and hardware, such as a drill, screws, anchors, brackets, or hooks. You will also need to follow the instructions that come with your chosen item.
Before you start, make sure that you turn off the power and gas supply to your appliances and move them away from the wall. Then mark the location and height of your item on the wall with a pencil. Next, drill holes in the wall and insert anchors or screws to secure your item. Finally, move your appliances back to their original position and check that they are level and stable.
Q: How do I clean and maintain the space between my stove and refrigerator?
A: To clean and maintain the space between your stove and refrigerator, you will need some cleaning supplies, such as a vacuum cleaner, a broom, a dustpan, a cloth, and a mild detergent. You will also need to move your appliances away from the wall periodically.
First, vacuum or sweep the floor under and behind your appliances to remove dust, dirt, crumbs, or spills. Then wipe the wall and the sides of your appliances with a damp cloth and some detergent to remove grease, stains, or fingerprints. Finally, dry everything with a clean cloth and move your appliances back to their original position.
The space between your stove and refrigerator can be used for more than just collecting dust. You can turn it into a functional and attractive part of your kitchen by adding a cabinet, a shelf, or a rolling cart. These options can provide extra storage, counter space, or mobility for your kitchen.
However, before you choose what to put between your stove and refrigerator space, you should consider the size of the gap, the type of appliances, and the building codes. You should also measure the space accurately, install your item properly, and clean and maintain it regularly.
