A renter-friendly kitchen storage idea uses the often-overlooked side of a refrigerator to create additional shelving. The approach involves attaching a narrow bookshelf to the fridge with strong adhesive magnetic strips, turning unused vertical space into an organized storage area.
The idea was demonstrated by content creator Alissa Steinbrugge, who used a five-tier bookshelf to hold items such as oil bottles, cookbooks and decorative objects. Inspired by the setup, one homeowner replaced a rolling shelf and magnetic rod with a six-tier bookshelf purchased from Wayfair. The unit was assembled in less than an hour before being secured to the refrigerator.
The added shelves provided a clearer view of stored items and made it easier to access them without searching through crowded cabinets. Snacks, baking supplies and other pantry goods could be moved onto the bookcase, freeing cabinet space for other kitchen needs.
The solution works by taking advantage of vertical space that is usually left unused. However, the bookshelf’s dimensions need to match the refrigerator and the surrounding area. Measurements should include the fridge’s height and width, as well as the available space between the appliance and nearby walls or doors.
Depth is also important. A deeper bookcase may work in a kitchen with plenty of clearance, while a shallower model is better suited to tighter spaces. Before installing one, users should also assess stability and safety. Magnetic strips can hold the shelf in place, but they do not provide the same security as drilling into a wall. The setup may be less suitable in homes with children, pets or uneven floors, and the shelves should not be overloaded.
Sources: Apartment Therapy.