Where To Put A Toaster Oven In A Small Kitchen?

If you are already cramped for space in a small kitchen but want to have easy access to a frequently used toaster oven, you are probably wondering where to put it. We’ve put together a list of the most convenient locations to store and readily use your toaster oven safely.

The best places to store your toaster oven in the kitchen are:

• Countertop
• Freestanding Shelf
• Wall-mounted Shelf
• Under Cabinets

Let’s take a look at the aesthetic appeal and functionality of these toaster oven locations. Keep reading, and we’ll also share how to incorporate your toaster oven into unique designs for your kitchen.

Countertop

The countertop is an ideal location for a toaster oven, especially if you plan to use the toaster oven regularly. Try to avoid placing the toaster oven near the sink to prevent water damage and accidental electrocution.

Freestanding Shelf

Adding a set of shelves to a small kitchen is not only aesthetically pleasing but frees up your countertops and increases storage space.

Freestanding shelves can be stationary, as a permanent fixture in your kitchen.

Mobile, freestanding shelves with a work surface can double as an active kitchen island while neatly concealing your toaster oven.

Wall-mounted Shelf

Hanging a wall-mounted shelf above your countertop frees up valuable counter space and keeps your toaster oven conveniently accessible. Whether you incorporate a shelving unit into your kitchen’s design, or simply mount a shelf for the toaster oven, you will have in numerous options.

 

Steadfast brackets support only the toaster oven.

Click here to find this on Amazon.

Wall-mounted toaster oven specific shelving can also provide additional storage space for condiments, utensils, and dish towels.

Under Cabinets

Mount the toaster oven beneath your cabinetry for easy access and available counter space directly below. Some toaster ovens come with a mounting hood, specifically designed for under cabinet installation.

Click here to find this on Amazon.

Under-cabinet installations are sleek-looking, so you gain a functional, streamlined kitchen.

Can You Put a Toaster Oven in a Cabinet?

A cabinet is a great location to store a toaster oven, especially if it is seldom used. Because it is a compact appliance, you can easily move a toaster oven from the cabinet onto the counter when you are want to use it.

But if you plan to install a toaster oven into a cabinet permanently, you will want to consider both ventilation and heat protection.

Ventilation

Because the exterior of the toaster oven gets very hot while in use, ventilating the toaster oven is the best way to prevent fire. Ventilation is also essential when cooking gets messy. Burnt-on bits of food at the bottom of the oven can create a smoky plume when you open the door. Odors linger.

Most manufacturers recommend a clearance of 4” around the toaster oven’s sidewalls and top. Check the instructions for your toaster oven for specified installation guidelines. If you use a toaster oven inside a cabinet, make sure the cabinet door stays open during use to promote ventilation.

Heat Protection

If you are concerned that you cannot abide by the recommended ventilation clearance for cabinet installation, consider lining the walls and ceiling of the cabinet with a heat guard.

A heat guard will also protect the integrity of your cabinetry, by preventing unsightly stains occurring from splattered grease and released steam.

Click here to find this on Amazon.

Can You Put Things on Top of a Toaster Oven?

Because toaster ovens are not well insulated, the exterior surfaces get very hot while in use. It can even be too hot to touch! You should avoid putting things directly on the top of a toaster oven, to prevent items from melting or burning.

Consider placing a rack shelf atop the toaster oven. It will increase your countertop storage and keep toaster oven utensils handy. This rack is extendable, so it fits over various sized toaster ovens.

Click here to find this on Amazon.

This decorative rack shelf is perfect for small spaces.

Click here to find this on Amazon.

How Can I Hide My Countertop Appliances?

Design an appliance garage in your kitchen by installing customized cabinetry. You might think of it as transforming your kitchen into a multipurpose pantry.

Conceal appliances by using sliding drawers and sliding shelves behind a stylish facade. Your kitchen counters will be clutter-free. Most countertops will also be concealed. Easily access ready-to-use appliances like the coffee pot, toaster oven, juicer, and standing mixer simply by opening a cabinet or drawer.

You probably want to consult the professionals to create an appliance garage because there are many factors to consider like:

• Drawer and shelf depths.
• Electrical outlet location/installation.
• Access; tambour doors vs. sliding shelves/drawers vs. lifting doors

Once you venture down the custom cabinetry road, there are endless directions to turn toward achieving a functional, chic kitchen.

Final Thoughts

To find the best location in your kitchen for a toaster oven, you will want to consider:

• How often do you use the toaster oven?
• Can you sacrifice valuable counter space, or do you need an alternative?
• Do you want the toaster oven to be visible or hidden?
• Where is the electrical outlet located?
• Is the space well ventilated?
• Do you need heat protection for nearby surfaces and items?

Once you have narrowed down potential locations for your toaster oven, you can start looking for an installation style that will coordinate with your kitchen’s decor.

It might not be as easy as plopping the toaster oven onto the countertop, but with a bit of ingenuity, you can transform your small space into a multipurpose kitchen.

You might also be interested in:

Best 8 Walmart Microwave Toaster Oven Combos

10 Toaster Oven Accessories You Probably Need