3 things you should never place on top of your refrigerator

3. 🧴 Cleaning Supplies or Chemicals

Why not:
It may seem logical to keep cleaning products up high and out of reach — especially in homes with kids — but the top of your fridge isn’t the place. Heat from the fridge can cause chemical containers to expand, leak, or become unstable, and no one wants cleaning fluid dripping near food.

Better alternative:
Store cleaning products in a locked cabinet or a high shelf away from food-prep areas. Opt for secure storage bins if you’re short on cabinet space.

💡 So, What Can You Store on Top of the Fridge?

If you must use that space, go for non-perishable, lightweight, and decorative items, such as:

• Woven baskets with paper goods (napkins, paper plates)
• Cookbooks in a vertical rack
• Decorative jars or plants (as long as they don’t trap heat)
• A small bin for reusable bags or lunch boxes

Just be sure to leave some space for airflow — your fridge needs breathing room to run efficiently.

✅ Final Word:

That “just stick it on top of the fridge” habit can lead to quicker food spoilage, unsafe storage, and reduced appliance efficiency. By keeping these three things off your refrigerator, you’ll have a safer, cleaner, and more organized kitchen — and maybe even a lower energy bill.

A little decluttering on top can lead to a lot more peace of mind down below.

Would you like a printable checklist or kitchen organization guide to go with this article? I can help create one!