Tiny Pantry Makeover
You’ll love our Tiny Pantry Makeover! Before the transformation in this kitchen storage cabinet, this narrow space had one adjustable shelf. All the contents were difficult to access and there was much under-utilised opportunity for storage. After installing three pull out baskets, this narrow cabinet now has much better access and visibility.
No more digging in the back of the cabinet again!
How to transform this space in 3 easy steps:
Step 1: Remove The Shelf
Did you know that removing shelves from an already existing cabinet can increase the potential for storage by up to 30%? This cabinet had just one adjustable shelf that was simple to remove – simply lift it off and take it out. If you have a fixed shelf, we have solutions to suit here also. Get in touch for more information.
Step 2: Add 3 Pull Out Wire Baskets
In a standard under bench cabinet that is approx 700H, you can install up three slide out baskets. Two x 100 H and one x 150H pull out baskets work nicely together (pictured). If you plan on storing taller items, you might consider only adding two pull out baskets, but three is perfect as you then maximise the majority of space.
Step 3: Installation Options
Professional installation is not essential. This cabinet was transformed within 30 mins flat! The ‘handyman’ was actually a ‘handy-woman’, armed with a pencil, a measuring tape, and mini cordless drill, not to mention minimal DIY experience! Alternatively, a paid handyman service can do the job also.
Using Non Slip Bases
Non slip bases are good if you plan to store tall items or multiple spices (like the ones pictured in the top basket). Bases provide stability for items in your pantry, especially when pulling the baskets in and out. Cans, packets, boxes etc don’t require bases so it is not essential here. The benefit of a non slip base is that it is easy to remove and just as easy to clean.
Minimal Cleaning
Pull out wire baskets requires minimal (or next to nothing) cleaning. If you want to clean the baskets (eg: something spills), it’s very easy to clip it out of its sliding tracks.
How do wire baskets compare to regular drawers?
We love regular drawer systems, such as Blum & Hettich (just to name a couple) but inside a narrow cabinet they can waste a lot of space. The thick side guards and additional packing required will give you much less usable space, which is a narrow cabinet really important – every inch counts! Regular drawers behind a cabinet door can be tricky to install if not fitted by a professional installer. And last of all, an internal drawer generally costs double compared to a stainless steel wire basket. So there is a bit to consider when comparing baskets to drawers.
Tips For Choosing Pull Out Storage For Narrow Cabinets
- The choice of mechanism to slide the basket in/out needs to take up minimal space, so as you can have the widest basket possible to maximise the space.
- Check the access for installation – some slide out systems cannot be fitted into existing cabinets, due to access being too tight.
- Check quality! Check warranty! Choose quality materials to ensure you are not having to replace the mechanism within a short time frame, as this will only cost you more dollars in the long run.
Furthermore, read a Houzz article with even more ideas to transform narrow and/or tricky cabinet spaces.
Need help with your tiny pantry makeover? Contact us for friendly expert advice and obiligation free quotes.
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