This simple IKEA hack might just be the small kitchen appliance storage solution you’ve been looking for
You’re that person who actually uses your air fryer, espresso machine, and stand mixer on the regular (because life’s too short for mediocre meals and instant coffee).
But every morning, you’re playing Tetris with your toaster and coffee maker just to find counter space for your cutting board. Sound familiar?
The design world recommends the “75% clear countertops,” and sure, it’s solid advice for the effortlessly chic kitchen vibe we’re all chasing.
However, in real life, you really do need more than one or two small appliances out in the open. At least, I do.
Here’s where the appliance garage comes into play. It’s a great way to keep things out of sight but still accessible.
One hacker, Gülcan Öztürk @roses.interior, discovered that the IKEA UTRUSTA pull-out shelf fits perfectly inside their microwave cabinet, creating a quick and easy appliance hideaway.
Create an Appliance Garage Cabinet Using the UTRUSTA Pull-Out Shelf
What You’ll Need
1. Install the UTRUSTA Extendable Shelf
Follow IKEA’s instructions to install the pull-out shelf. The hacker did not have an IKEA kitchen; the shelf just happened to fit well in their cabinets. For reference, their cabinet is 60 cm wide, 60 cm deep. Make sure to measure your cabinet to make sure the UTRUSTA fits (24” x 24” including the frame).
2. Add Spacer and Plugs as Needed
If your cabinet is slightly wider than the UTRUSTA shelf, you could install wood spacers. Use L-brackets, sunken screws, or nails to attach the spacers to each side of the cabinet’s interior. Then install the UTRUSTA.
Gülcan uses a power strip inside the cabinet to plug in the appliances. There was already an outlet since the cabinet was intended for the microwave. Otherwise, you may need to hire an electrician to install an outlet; if so, ensure it is properly fitted to meet GFCI requirements.
Price for this hack: $50 for the UTRUSTA shelf
Keeping The Appliance Garage Safe and Sturdy
Several comments express concern about the shelf holding up to the weight of the appliances. Gülcan responded with a follow-up after ten months of using the shelf, saying that they hadn’t experienced any issues.
IKEA specifies a maximum load of 635 ounces, or just under 40 pounds. Therefore, just keep that in mind, also accounting for the added weight when a kettle is full of water, etc.
Safety Concerns Around Water, Electricity, and Heat
The other main concern mentioned was the combination of electricity and water. Plus, questions about the steam and heat generated by the appliances warping the cabinets or leading to more hazardous problems.
Again, after 10 months of use, the hackers hadn’t had any issues, but I can definitely see the concern. Of course, they pull the shelf out when they use the appliances, but the height of the cabinet is pretty low. Perhaps allowing things to cool down before stowing them away would help.
If you’re concerned about things like steam and heat, you could still use this idea for storage, essentially parking gadgets in an appliance garage. Then, simply place the appliances on the counter when you use them, and tuck them away again after they cool off.
Is It a Hack? Maybe, Maybe Not, But It’s Still an Idea!
One thing about this hack that had people puzzled is that it isn’t necessarily a hack. After all, it’s a pull-out shelf that’s being used as a pull-out shelf. However, IKEA shows it off as more of an extendable work surface, for example, a pull-out cutting board inside a drawer.
Therefore, seeing it here as a slide-out for appliances certainly gives people another idea of how to use the item. If you’re looking for a solution to clear clutter off your countertops, then this could be just the brainstorm you need.
Watch the hack, and follow Gülcan Öztürk @roses.interior for more interior inspiration and design DIYs. Have more than one or two appliances to keep out of sight? Check out this larger appliance garage for maximum storage and a big wow factor.
Got an IKEA hack of your own? We want to see it! Submit your project here or tag us on Instagram @ikeahackersofficial.