Can you add shelves to kitchen cabinets?

Adding shelves to existing kitchen cabinets can be a great way to maximize storage space. The quick answer is yes, you can add shelves to many types of kitchen cabinets with some simple tools and materials. In this article, we’ll discuss when and how to add shelves to kitchen cabinets, the different types of cabinets and shelves, and provide a step-by-step guide to adding shelves yourself.

When to Add Shelves to Kitchen Cabinets

There are a few key times when adding shelves to your kitchen cabinets can be especially helpful:

• When you need more storage space: Additional shelves instantly double your storage capacity. This allows you to better organize pots, pans, appliances, pantry items, and more.
• When you have wasted vertical space: Tall cabinets with only one or two shelves waste valuable storage real estate. Adding a shelf splits up the vertical space.
• When cabinets are too deep: For very deep cabinets, much of the back area ends up wasted. A shelf can make this space usable.
• When renovating your kitchen: Installing new shelves during a kitchen remodel is easy and cost-effective.
• When you change how you use a cabinet: If you start storing larger plates or small appliances, adjusting the shelves helps optimize the layout.

Adding shelves is an inexpensive and weekend project, unlike replacing or moving entire cabinets. And it allows you to fully customize your storage layout.

Types of Kitchen Cabinets for Adding Shelves

You can add shelves to many standard cabinet types, as long as they are deep enough. Some options include:

• Base cabinets: Standard base cabinets offer ample vertical space for extra shelves. Just be sure to leave enough room for larger pots and pans on the bottom.
• Wall cabinets: Wall cabinets tend to be more shallow, but can still fit shelves to divide up stackable items like plates.
• Pantry cabinets: Tall pantry cabinets are perfect for adding multiple shelves. This allows you to organize ingredients and bulk goods.
• Upper cabinets: Upper cabinets above refrigerators or ranges often go wasted. Add shelves to store small appliances within easy reach.
• Corner cabinets: Turn wasted corner cabinet space into storage with diagonal shelves for keeping baking sheets or cutting boards.

Kitchen islands or peninsulas also frequently have room for extra shelves for cookbooks, spices, or kitchen tools. Just be sure to measure carefully before installing shelves in any cabinet.

Types of Shelves

There are several types of shelves you can install to match your cabinet’s storage needs:

• Fixed shelves: Permanent, stationary shelves are the most common. They provide durable, steady storage.
• Adjustable shelves: Shelves with adjustable brackets allow flexibility in positioning. But they may be less sturdy.
• Pull-out shelves: Roll-out shelves make items in the back of cabinets accessible. They’re great for corner cabinets.
• Glass shelves: Glass or acrylic shelves create an open, visible look. They work best for wall cabinets or display items.
• Spice racks: Pull-out metal spice racks organize spices and jars well. But they don’t maximize space as regular shelves do.

The type of shelf you add depends on your cabinet layout, storage needs, and budget. Fixed wooden shelves are the easiest DIY option. While pull-out or glass shelves provide more functionality, at a higher cost.

How to Add Shelves to Kitchen Cabinets

Adding shelves involves carefully measuring, cutting, and installing shelf brackets or rails. Follow these steps:

1. Empty the cabinet and remove any existing shelves. Also take off cabinet doors.
2. Measure the inside depth and width of the cabinet case. Write down measurements.
3. Decide how many shelves you want and at what heights. Space shelves at least 12 inches apart.
4. Cut your shelves to size from 3⁄4-inch plywood or boards. A circular saw works best for straight cuts.
5. Install shelf brackets, supports, or rails spaced evenly along the cabinet sides. Make sure they align at each shelf height.
6. Place shelf boards on the brackets. Test that they are secure and level.
7. Add shelf lip or edge banding so contents don’t slide off. Apply adhesive non-slip pads if needed.
8. Sand or stain the shelves and finish edges. Install cabinets doors and replace contents.

Always pre-drill holes for screws or supports to prevent any splitting or cracking of the cabinet frame and shelves. And make sure supports can handle the weight of shelf contents. For a more finished look, choose bracket styles that coordinate with your cabinet hardware.

Tools and Materials Needed

Gather these supplies before starting your project:

• Tape measure
• Pencil
• Circular saw or table saw
• Carpenter’s square
• Level
• Stud finder
• Drill and drill bits
• Screwdriver
• Wood boards or plywood for shelves
• Shelf brackets or rails
• Edge banding or shelf lip
• Wood glue or adhesive
• Safety glasses and gloves

Shelving Ideas

When planning your new shelves, consider these ideas:

• Add a tiered display shelf above the kitchen sink for decorative items.
• Install pull-out shelves in blind corner cabinets to access all that wasted space.
• Use sturdy shelves in lower cabinets to hold large appliances like mixers.
• Create rolling trays for spices in a base cabinet pull-out.
• Stack wall-mounted pot racks on shelves for pans and lids.
• Include extra deep shelves for oversized plates and serving bowls.

Also look for clever ways to use vertical spaces between counter tops and wall cabinets. Or make narrow filler shelves between cabinet frames. Once you start customizing, you’ll find all sorts of inventive shelf designs to create your dream kitchen!

Pro Tips

Follow these pro tips for success in adding shelves:

• Label shelves once removed so you can reinstall in the same position.
• Double check all measurements and shelf placements before cutting.
• Pre-finish and touch up shelves before installing for easier finishing.
• Use shelf pegs and supports when possible for easy adjustments.
• Install any fixed shelves on cleats along the cabinet sides for sturdiness.
• Make paper templates of shelves and brackets first to test sizing.
• Consider hiring a carpenter for specialty shelves like pull-outs or glass.

Cost of Adding Shelves

The cost to add shelves to kitchen cabinets depends on the type of shelves and whether you do it yourself or hire a pro. Some typical price ranges include:

Project	DIY Cost	Pro Cost
Fixed shelf	$20-$50	$100-$200
Adjustable shelf	$30-$60	$150-$250
Pull-out shelf	$50-$100	$250-$500
Glass shelf	$60-$120	$300-$600

The exact cost depends on the number of shelves, shelf size, cabinet size, materials, hardware required, and labor. Installing shelves yourself provides significant savings over hiring a carpenter.

Considerations Before Adding Shelves

While extra shelves can add valuable storage space, keep these factors in mind before getting started:

• Available cabinet space – Make sure the cabinet is deep and wide enough to accommodate shelves.
• Structural support – Cabinets should be sturdy enough to hold heavier shelves. Look for sagging.
• Plumbing or electric – Avoid locations with pipes, wires or vents inside cabinets.
• Use frequency – Only add shelves in cabinets you regularly access and use for storage.
• Contents – Shelves should be sized and spaced for your specific items like dishes or pantry goods.
• Cabinet doors – Remove doors during installation and make sure they open fully after.
• Existing function – Don’t block the cabinet’s original purpose like storing a trash can or appliance.

Take detailed measurements and inventory your cabinet contents before purchasing materials. While generally straightforward, poor planning of sizing or spacing shelves can lead to wasted time and money.

Alternatives to Adding Shelves

If your cabinets won’t accommodate more shelves, consider these alternatives to add storage:

• Cabinet organizers and dividers – Inserts to compartmentalize cabinets.
• Over cabinet racks – Racks installed on top of cabinets for additional space.
• Under cabinet racks – Mounted underneath cabinets, often above the counter.
• Freestanding racks – Carts or utility racks that don’t attach to cabinets.
• Wall mounted storage – Floating shelves or racks installed directly on walls.
• Kitchen carts – Carts and islands that provide cabinet and counter space.

While these don’t increase storage within existing cabinets, they can add substantial space adjacent to or near cabinets. Just be mindful of kitchen layout, available space, and budget when exploring alternatives.

Conclusion

Adding shelves to your kitchen cabinets is an easy, budget-friendly way to maximize your storage potential. The process involves carefully measuring, cutting, and installing shelf braces and boards. Just be sure to assess your cabinet space, structural support, and contents first. Consider both permanent, fixed shelves or adjustable, roll-out designs. With the right preparation and DIY approach, you can customize your cabinets with functional, accessible shelving tailored to your kitchen’s unique storage needs.