The outdoor kitchen can easily become the central point of unforgettable barbecues, cozy family reunions, or even adventures, like camping. While trying to design or organize an outdoor kitchen, probably the most versatile element that gets highly ignored is the over the stove shelf.
This is not only for indoors; it acts as a great implement to increase storage, functionality, and aesthetic appeal outdoors.This blog post explains 10 innovative ways you can use an over the stove microwave shelf or shelf above stove in your outdoor kitchen, from organizing spices to creating a beverage station. These will surely serve to bring forth the utmost potential of your outdoors for cooking.
Advantages of an Over the Stove Shelf for Outdoor Kitchens
Before discussing creative uses, here is a view into why an over the stove shelf is an indispensable element in outdoor cooking setups:
1. Maximised Space
Outdoor kitchens mostly come with limited counters and storage space. An over the stove microwave shelf uses the vertical space, freeing up the valued areas for food preparation, among other tasks.
2. Enhances Organization
An over the stove shelf ensures that all the tools and ingredients are at easy reach, and one does not need to climb into their bags or through any cabinet right in the middle of a cook.
3. Weather Durable for Outdoor Conditions
Outdoor friendly shelves will be made with weather resistant materials such as stainless steel or powder coated aluminum. Weather resistance can withstand rain, heat, and UV rays.
4. Versatility
Shelves are very versatile; they are good for display, may serve as a beverage station, or may be used to organize gear, whatever one needs outdoors.
10 Creative Uses for an Over the Stove Shelf in Your Outdoor Kitchen
1. Spice and Condiment Organizer
The process of outdoor cooking requires quick access to spices and condiments. Put them on your stove shelf in resistant and waterproof containers. It keeps all utensils within reach and saves edibles from getting spoiled because of moisture.
For better accessibility and style, magnetic spice containers can serve the purpose by sticking right to the metal shelf.
2. Oil and Sauce Storage
Oils, marinades, and sauces are required more often during grilling and outdoor cooking. Hang them in leak proof bottles or drip trays inside spill proof bottle containers on your shelf. This organizes your workspace and also gives a decent outlook to your arrangement.
Do include some stylish looking oil dispensers for that classy look of the outdoor kitchen setup.
3. Tool and Utensil Hanger
Hook your over the stove microwave shelf for hanging essentials such as spatulas, tongs, and basting brushes with this shelf so your countertops may stay mess free and yet at an arm’s reach, so that utensils can be handled effortlessly.
Just search for those shelves with a set of hooks attached to the shelves themselves, or for attaching magnetic hooks on your own.
4. Cookbook Display
Some trusted books of cooking may be good enough to arouse any outdoorsy chef from slumbering and set into cooking mode again. Arrange it on your shelf above the stove using the waterproof cookbook cover or laminate books for their security against weather conditions.
Arrange those bookstands and little baskets with some books standing and ordered over the shelf area.Convert your microwave oven shelf over stove into a beverage bar.
Store coffee cups, a mobile coffee maker, or drink powder mixes. With small plants or other thematic notices, it will be a ready place to greet your guests. For outdoor use, a French press or solar powered coffee maker will be just perfect.
6. Small Gadget Storage
Items such as timers, thermometers, and food weights are key to precision when cooking outdoors. Take this opportunity to store them on your stove shelf in small trays or storage containers.
Make sure to use weather resistant organizers so your gadgets can be protected against moisture and extreme heat.
7. Decorative Display
Utilize this shelf for decorative purposes, adding an element of personality to your outdoor kitchen. Place small potted plants, string lights, or thematic decor on top of the shelf according to your outdoor setting.
Use LED string lights or lanterns run by solar panels to add ambiance without having to search for electrical outlets.
8. Heat Resistant Cookware Storage
Place your more easy going cookware on this shelf, such as cast iron pans, grill baskets, or Dutch ovens, great for being used outdoors and not easily damaged by the heat that emanates from your stove. Optimize storage space with stackable cookware.
9. Camping Gear Organization
For the camper, the over the stove shelf offers an ideal solution to camping gear, such as portable stoves, fuel canisters, and cooking gear, neatly stored away. This will guarantee a neat and clean campsite and, at the same time, offer accessibility to all that you may need.
When possible, adopt collapsible or ultralight gear to reduce weight and bulk.
10. Extended Non Perishable Storage
Store your pantry staples, foods in a can, dry mixes, or snacks, on the shelf. Accomplish this with stackable container or basket storage, keeping items organized and preventing them from falling over when you draw out the shelf.
Airtight containers keep food fresher and prevent infestation or moisture buildup.
Recommended Outdoor Friendly Products
To get you started using the over the stove shelf with your outdoor activities, here are a few outdoor friendly product recommendations that will go well with an over the stove shelf:
- Magnetic Spice Containers: They attach directly to metal shelves, save space, and keep spices organized. Store your most used spices for grilling and cooking outdoors.
- Stainless Steel Oil Dispensers: Durable and leak free, these dispensers add functionality and style to your outdoor kitchen.
- Portable French Press Coffee Maker: Perfect for preparing fresh coffee outside without the need for electricity.
- Weather Resistant Tool Hooks: Attach them to your shelf, and it’s convenient to have grilling tools and utensils at your fingertips.
- Cast Iron Skillet Set: Those are designed for high heat, perfect for cooking outdoors, and can be safely stored on your shelf.
- Solar Powered String Lights: Add coziness to your outdoor cooking area in an energy efficient manner.
- Airtight Storage Containers: Keep the food fresh and protect it from moisture or pests in outdoor conditions.
- Foldable Camping Stove with Shelf Attachment: This is a combo of cooking and storing in a compact design for campers.
Conclusion
An over the stove shelf is much more than a storage solution; it is a multitasker that could change your outdoor kitchen into a place of order, functionality, and even style. Be it for camping, grilling, or simply hanging out outside, these shelves let your imagination run wild with a multitude of possibilities to enhance the art of outdoor cooking.
Invest in durable, weather resistant items and try some of these creative ideas to really make your outdoor kitchen a centerpiece of gatherings and adventures.
FAQs
1. Which materials are best for an over the stove shelf?
Best to use heat resistant materials like stainless steel, tempered glass, or high quality wood for an over the stove shelf. You can also have them near stoves, which are very durable in a high temperature area.
2. Can I install an over the stove/microwave shelf myself?
Yes. Most of the microwave shelves can be easily installed by DIY. All of the very detailed instructions come with it. If, however, you have to drill or have special hardware, you should consult a pro for safety and stability.
3. How much weight can an over the stove shelf hold?
The weight capacity usually varies by model and design. A typical microwave oven shelf over a stove can hold as little as 10 to 50 lbs. Always consult the manufacturer’s specifications and never overload to avoid any safety hazards.
