Efficient Kitchen Organisation: How to Store Cups and Plates in Wall Units

Understanding Wall Units

Before diving into the specifics of storing cups and plates, it's essential to understand what wall units are and their standard dimensions.

Wall units are kitchen cabinets mounted on the wall, often used to store crockery, glassware, and other kitchen essentials. Their height and depth can vary, but a common depth is 300mm.

When choosing wall units for cups and plates, consider the internal dimensions to ensure they fit your items comfortably.

Key Measurements

• Depth: The standard depth is 300mm, but the effective internal depth is less due to the cabinet's back panel and void.
• Width: Widths vary, but a 600mm cabinet is standard for storing larger items or multiple items side by side.

Storing Plates

Choosing the Right Cabinet

To store plates efficiently, you need a cabinet that accommodates their size and shape. For standard 10-inch plates (about 254mm in diameter), ensure the internal depth of your cabinet is sufficient.

Calculation Example

• Total Depth: 300mm
• Void and Back Panel: -27mm (18mm void + 9mm back panel)
• Usable Depth: 273mm

This depth comfortably fits a 10-inch plate, allowing for easy storage and retrieval.

Organising Plates

• Vertical Organisers: Use vertical racks to separate plates, making them easier to grab and reducing the risk of damage.
• Shelf Risers: Maximise space by using shelf risers, creating additional levels for plate storage.

Storing Cups

Cups can be more challenging to store due to their varying sizes and handles. However, with the right approach, you can maximise space while keeping your cups accessible.

Cup Hooks

Install hooks under shelves to hang cups by their handles. This not only saves space but also turns your cups into a display feature.

Shelf Dividers

Use dividers to create sections for different types of cups, ensuring they stay organised and easy to find.

Maximising Space and Accessibility

Adjustable Shelves

Opt for wall units with adjustable shelves to customise the space according to your needs, accommodating different sizes of cups and plates.

Clear Labelling

Consider labelling shelves or sections within your cabinet, especially if you're storing a variety of items. This helps everyone in the household know where things go, maintaining organisation.

Care and Maintenance

To keep your wall units in good condition, regularly clean both the interior and exterior. For cups and plates, ensure they're dry before storing to prevent dampness, which can lead to mould.

Conclusion

Efficiently storing cups and plates in kitchen wall units not only helps in keeping your kitchen organised but also ensures that these essentials are easily accessible.

By considering the dimensions of your wall units and employing simple organisational tools and techniques, you can make the most of your kitchen storage space.

Remember, the key to a well-organised kitchen is not just in selecting the right storage solutions but also in maintaining an orderly system that works for your household's needs.