Where should kitchen appliances be stored?

When designing a kitchen layout, one of the most important considerations is where to store kitchen appliances. The placement of appliances can impact workflow, accessibility, and aesthetics in the kitchen. This article will provide tips on optimal locations for common kitchen appliances like the refrigerator, stove, microwave, dishwasher, coffee maker, toaster, and more.

Table of Contents

Refrigerator

The refrigerator is often the largest appliance in the kitchen and one that gets accessed frequently. Here are some tips on where to place the fridge:

Locate near the kitchen entrance for easy access when carrying groceries.

Allow enough clearance so the doors can open fully – measure your fridge doors at their widest point.
Don’t cram next to the stove – heat from the stove can make the compressor work harder.
Try to avoid placing near a window where direct sunlight can warm the fridge.

Consider proximity to the sink, counters, and food prep areas.

Stove/Oven

The stove and oven see heavy use, so their position matters. Considerations include:

Allow open counter space on one or both sides for setting down hot pots/pans.

Don’t block the cook’s access to the sink.
Make sure there’s counter space nearby to stage ingredients while cooking.
Avoid locatings near common traffic lanes where people may bump the cook.

Placement near an exterior vent hood is ideal.

Microwave

Since microwaves get used frequently, easy access is key. Ideas for placement include:

Mount at a height that’s ergonomic for users.

Integrate into upper cabinets near the kitchen workspace.
Install on a microwave cart or shelf near food prep areas.
Consider including outlets nearby to plug in the microwave.

Dishwasher

When planning for dishwasher placement, factor in:

Needs to attach to hot water line and drainage lines under sink.
Should be located near the sink for easy loading/unloading.

Allow open counter space on at least one side.
Placement to the right or left of the sink usually works well.

Coffee Maker & Toaster

Since coffee makers and toasters are used daily, easy access is essential. Consider:

Placing the coffee maker near the sink for water access.
Providing open counter space to allow clearance while in use.
Installing electrical outlets nearby for plugging them in.

Incorporating into a coffee/beverage station if you have the space.

Small Appliances

For frequently used small appliances like blenders, air fryers, instant pots etc. consider:

Can they be stowed in cabinets near the workspace when not in use?

Is there accessible counter space to place them when in use?
Are outlets available nearby for plugging them in?

Garbage Disposal

The garbage disposal unit gets mounted under the kitchen sink. Make sure to:

Match it up with the sink basins/drainage area under sink.
Provide a switch on the wall behind the sink for easy access.
Install a dishwasher air gap if you have a dishwasher.

Ventilation Hood

Proper ventilation is important for clearing smoke and odors. Considerations include:

Mount directly over the stovetop to capture steam, smoke, grease.
Ductwork to vent outdoors will require some cabinet modification.

Make sure it’s powerful enough for the size of your stove.

Storage Considerations

Here are some general guidelines around kitchen storage and appliance placement:

Take measurements of all your major appliances and fixtures.

Map out traffic flows and allow enough clearance.
Group appliances logically near the workspace.
Maximize corner storage with lazy susans or specialized pull-out cabinets.

Mix in open and closed storage as needed.
Ensure electrical and plumbing can support appliance locations.

Kitchen Layout Ideas

Here are some common kitchen layouts and considerations for each:

Single Wall or Corridor Kitchen

Arrange appliances and cabinets along one wall.
Works well for small spaces like apartments.
Can make the kitchen feel enclosed – use open shelves and glass cabinet doors to open it up.

Galley Kitchen

Two parallel runs of cabinets and countertops.
Typically includes the sink and stove on one side.
Fridge, microwave etc. on the other side.

Allows for an efficient assembly line workflow.

L-Shaped Kitchen

Cabinets and counters along two adjacent walls.
Creates distinct work zones for appliances.

Island can be added for more workspace.
Traffic flows well around the L.

U-Shaped Kitchen

Cabinets and counters along three walls.

Enclosed layout great for maximum storage.
Can also integrate an island.
Requires at least 10 feet across to prevent closed-in feeling.

Island Kitchen

Centered around a kitchen island.
Allows for interaction with guests.
Appliances on surrounding walls or secondary island.

Provides abundant open countertop workspace.

Kitchen Storage Types

Here are some popular storage options to consider for kitchen appliances and accessories:

Storage Type	Description	Items to Store
Base Cabinets	Cabinets with doors installed on the kitchen floor.	Pots, pans, large appliances.
Wall Cabinets	Upper cabinets mounted on the wall.	Dishes, glasses, spices.
Drawers	Horizontal storage with pull-out access.	Utensils, gadgets, tools.
Shelves	Open ledges for display and access.	Display pieces, cookbooks.
Pantry	A closet for dry goods and supplies.	Canned goods, baking ingredients.
Island	A central counter with cabinets and shelves.	Frequently used tools, glassware.

Pull-Out Storage Solutions

Here are some pull-out storage solutions to consider:

Lazy susans – Rotating trays to access corner cabinet items.
Spice racks – Pull-out narrow shelves for spices.
Cutlery dividers – Custom slots for organizing utensils.

Appliance garages – Hide small appliances in a retractable cabinet.
Waste bin cabinets – Mounted waste bins that slide in and out.
Bread boxes – Pull-out for storing bread, baked goods.

These pull-out storage solutions increase visibility and accessibility to items that may otherwise get buried in cabinets.

Conclusion

Optimizing kitchen appliance placement requires considering workflow, storage needs, and styles. Focus on creating convenient access to appliances near main work areas. Incorporate a mix of open and closed storage options like shelves, cabinets, drawers and pull-outs. Be sure to measure carefully and map appliances to allow for necessary clearances. The right placement and storage choices can help maximize function and elevate the kitchen’s style.