Corner cabinets are often underutilized spaces in kitchens, but with the addition of a lazy susan, they can become incredibly functional and convenient. A lazy susan is a rotating shelf that allows you to access items stored at the back of a cabinet with ease. When combined with a corner cabinet, it can transform a usually awkward space into a highly efficient storage solution. Here, we'll explore some creative and practical corner cabinet lazy susan ideas to help you make the most of your kitchen space.
Before we dive into the ideas, let's first consider the different types of lazy susans available. The most common are shelf-style and basket-style. Shelf-style lazy susans are great for storing canned goods, spices, and other small items, while basket-style lazy susans are perfect for keeping fruits, vegetables, and other perishable items organized and within reach.
Maximizing Storage in Base Corner Cabinets
Base corner cabinets are typically the most challenging to access due to their location and size. A lazy susan can make a world of difference in terms of accessibility and organization.
One popular idea is to use a double lazy susan setup. This involves installing two lazy susans side by side, allowing you to store twice as many items in your corner cabinet. This is particularly useful in larger kitchens where space is not a concern. However, even in smaller kitchens, a double lazy susan can be a great way to maximize storage, as long as the items stored are not too heavy.
Using Dividers for Better Organization
To keep your items organized and prevent them from toppling over, consider using dividers on your lazy susan. You can find dividers in various materials, such as plastic, metal, or wood, and in different sizes to fit your specific needs. Some lazy susans even come with built-in dividers for added convenience.
For example, you could use dividers to separate spices, canned goods, or even pots and pans. This not only keeps your items neat and tidy but also makes it easier to find what you need. Additionally, dividers can help prevent smaller items from getting lost or falling into the back of the cabinet.
Installing a Lazy Susan in a Blind Corner Cabinet
A blind corner cabinet is a cabinet that is located in a corner but is not accessible due to the angle of the walls. Installing a lazy susan in a blind corner cabinet can make this usually wasted space highly functional. There are special lazy susan systems designed specifically for blind corners, such as the LeMans system, which features a full-extension shelf that swings out and around the corner.
These systems can be a bit more expensive than traditional lazy susans, but they are well worth the investment if you're looking to maximize your kitchen storage. They allow you to store items that you would otherwise have to keep in a separate pantry or on your countertops, freeing up valuable space in your kitchen.
Utilizing Wall Space with Overhead Lazy Susans
In addition to base cabinets, lazy susans can also be used in overhead cabinets to maximize vertical space. Overhead lazy susans are particularly useful in smaller kitchens where floor space is at a premium.
One creative idea is to install an overhead lazy susan in a corner cabinet to create a "pantry in the sky." This involves installing a lazy susan in the overhead cabinet above your base corner cabinet, allowing you to store items that you use less frequently, such as holiday dishes or specialty ingredients. To make the most of this setup, consider using clear containers to store your items, making it easier to see what you have and grab what you need.
Using an Overhead Lazy Susan for Cookware
Another practical use for an overhead lazy susan is to store cookware, such as pots, pans, and lids. By installing a lazy susan in your overhead cabinet, you can easily access and organize your cookware, keeping it within reach but out of the way.
To make the most of this setup, consider using a lazy susan with a deep lip to prevent your pots and pans from sliding off. You could also use dividers to separate your pots and pans and keep them organized. Additionally, consider using a lazy susan with a soft-close mechanism to prevent your cookware from banging against the cabinet doors.
Incorporating lazy susans into your corner cabinets can greatly improve the functionality and organization of your kitchen. Whether you're looking to maximize storage in your base cabinets, make the most of your vertical space, or create a pantry in the sky, there's a lazy susan solution to suit your needs. So why not transform your underutilized corner cabinets into highly functional storage spaces with these creative and practical lazy susan ideas?