🗄️ Blind Corner Cabinet Organizer Calculator
Size measurement, pull-out selection, and installation guide
Blind Corner Cabinet Calculator
Blind Corner Cabinet Organizer Products
| Product Type | Capacity | Opening Fit | Price Range | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Pull-Out Basket | High | 8-15" | $40-80 | Maximum storage, easy access |
| 2-Tier Pull-Out | Very High | 10-15" | $60-120 | Double capacity, full utilization |
| Lazy Susan | Medium | 10-14" | $30-70 | 360° access, visibility |
| Sliding Organizer | Medium-High | 12-15" | $50-100 | Smooth operation, modern |
| Wire Basket | High | 8-14" | $25-60 | Budget-friendly, flexible |
| DIY Custom | Variable | Any size | $10-40 | Exact fit, customization |
🏆 Top Brands
Rev-A-Shelf: Premium pull-outs, soft-close, multiple sizes ($70-130)
IKEA: Budget-friendly, simple designs ($25-60)
Kuehne: Quality German engineering ($60-110)
Vadania: Pull-out specialists ($50-100)
Lynk Professional: Expandable, modern ($40-90)
📏 Standard Opening Sizes
• 8-9": Narrow corners, compact homes, single basket
• 10-11": Most common residential, good capacity
• 12": Standard size, most products fit, good space
• 13-14": Larger kitchens, premium cabinets
• 15": Corner may not technically be "blind"
🔄 Pull-Out Types
Swing-Out: Basket slides out and rotates 90° (traditional)
Slide-Out: Linear motion, less rotation needed (modern)
Rotating: Full 360° access (lazy susan style)
Dual-Tier: Two baskets for maximum capacity
Installation & DIY Guide
🔧 Installation Requirements (Professional Product)
Tools Needed: Drill, screwdriver set, level, measuring tape
Time Required: 30 minutes - 1 hour
Difficulty: Intermediate (hardware mounting)
Cost: $0 (most include hardware)
Steps:
1. Measure cabinet opening precisely
2. Test fit organizer in cabinet
3. Mark mounting holes on cabinet sides
4. Drill holes carefully (pre-drill recommended)
5. Install brackets/hardware per instructions
6. Test full pull-out motion and stability
🎯 Measurement Tips
✓ Measure opening width at 3 points (top, middle, bottom)
✓ Account for door hinges (may reduce usable width)
✓ Measure cabinet depth to ensure clearance
✓ Check for obstacles (shelves, pipes, electrical)
✓ Leave 1/4" clearance for smooth operation
✓ Take photos of interior before shopping
DIY Option 1: Wire Basket System ($15-30)
Materials: Wire baskets, tension rods, brackets
Time: 15-20 minutes
Pros: Budget-friendly, no drilling, removable
Cons: Limited capacity, not removable
Best For: Renters, light storage, testing fit
DIY Option 2: Custom Wooden Pull-Out ($20-40)
Materials: Plywood, wood screws, drawer slides, paint
Time: 2-3 hours
Pros: Custom fit, durable, matches cabinet
Cons: Requires carpentry skills, drilling
Best For: Woodworkers, exact sizing needs
DIY Option 3: Lazy Susan Turntable ($10-20)
Materials: Lazy susan bearing, plywood base, paint
Time: 1-2 hours
Pros: 360° access, inexpensive, easy installation
Cons: Not removable, limited capacity
Best For: Budget projects, spice/canned storage
⚠️ Common Installation Mistakes
❌ Not measuring opening (products don't fit)
❌ Over-tightening screws (strips wood)
❌ Missing cabinet depth (hits back wall)
❌ Wrong orientation (left vs. right)
❌ No weight testing (collapse risk)
❌ Ignoring door clearance (door won't close)
💡 Pro Tips
✓ Install with door open for testing access
✓ Test full extension before securing permanently
✓ Use shims for uneven cabinet sides
✓ Label items for family to find easily
✓ Regular maintenance (slides need lubrication)
✓ Consider lighting (LED strips help visibility)
Blind Corner Cabinet Organizers: The Complete Guide
Blind corner cabinets are notorious for swallowing kitchen essentials into dark, forgotten corners. Pots, pans, and appliances disappear behind adjacent cabinet walls, forcing you to crawl halfway inside to retrieve a single item. It’s frustrating, inefficient, and wastes valuable storage space in one of the most important rooms in your home.
The good news? Blind corner cabinet organizers transform these dead zones into functional storage. Whether you’re working with a 9-inch, 12-inch, or 14-inch opening, there’s a solution designed to bring every item within easy reach. This guide breaks down everything you need to know about selecting, installing, and maximizing blind corner cabinet organizers—from pull-out systems and swing-out mechanisms to DIY options that won’t break the bank.
Understanding Blind Corner Cabinets
A blind corner cabinet sits at the junction of two perpendicular cabinet runs, typically in an L-shaped kitchen layout. One side opens normally while the adjoining space extends into the “blind” corner—hidden from view and difficult to access. The door on one cabinet overlaps part of the adjacent cabinet’s opening, creating a space that’s technically available but practically unusable without the right storage solution.
Standard blind corner cabinets come in various sizes, but the cabinet opening—the actual width of the door frame—is what determines which organizer will fit. Common opening sizes range from 9 to 18 inches, with 12-, 15-, and 18-inch openings most prevalent in residential kitchens.
Types of Blind Corner Cabinet Organizers
Pull-Out Organizers
Pull-out systems attach to sliding tracks and glide straight out of the cabinet. The front basket extends first, followed by the rear basket that slides into the newly available space. This two-step motion brings hidden items into full view without requiring you to reach deep into the cabinet.
Rev-A-Shelf’s 5PSP series exemplifies this design. The 5PSP-15-CR model fits most 45-inch blind corner cabinets with a 15-inch opening and features four chrome wire baskets (each measuring 11-3/4″ W x 16-1/2″ D x 3-1/2″ H) with a 27-pound load capacity per shelf. The unit requires a minimum cabinet opening of 15 inches wide, 21-21/32 inches deep, and 22 inches high for both face frame and frameless cabinets.
Pros:
- Full extension provides complete visibility.
- Heavy-duty construction supports substantial weight.
- Works in both left and right configurations
- Smooth operation with optional soft-close mechanisms
Cons:
- Requires precise measurements for proper installation
- Higher price point compared to simpler solutions
- Takes up more depth than swing-out alternatives
Swing-Out Organizers (LeMans Style)
Swing-out systems pivot on a four-arm articulation mechanism, allowing shelves to glide outward and forward in an arc. Kesseböhmer’s LeMans II pioneered this design, featuring independently moving shelves that swing out without disturbing items on other levels.
The LeMans II accommodates cabinet openings from 14 to 23 inches and requires a minimum internal cabinet height of 21-1/2 inches. Each shelf holds up to 55 pounds, and the organic shelf geometry increases usable storage area by up to 70% compared to traditional pull-outs. The system includes a four-way adjustable block that allows shelf travel to be customized for optimal positioning.
Pros:
- Significantly increases accessible storage space.
- Independent shelf movement prevents stacking issues.
- Soft-close mechanism available
- Height-adjustable shelves accommodate various item sizes.
Cons:
- More complex installation than pull-out systems
- Higher cost than basic organizers
- Requires clearance for door swing and shelf arc
Lazy Susan and Carousel Systems
Rotating platforms mount on a central pole or bearing system, allowing the entire unit to spin. IKEA’s UTRUSTA corner base cabinet carousel eliminates the center post, maximizing corner space while making contents easy to see and reach.
The UTRUSTA fits SEKTION corner base cabinets measuring 38×24 inches, with a 30-3/4-inch diameter and adjustable height from 19-5/8 inches to 29-7/8 inches. Each shelf supports up to 44 pounds, and the melamine trays resist scratches while remaining easy to clean.
Pros:
- Simple 360-degree access to all items
- No complex slide mechanisms to maintain
- Lower cost than pull-out or swing-out systems
- Easy installation and adjustment
Cons:
- The center post (in traditional lazy Susans) limits storage for large items.
- Items near the outer edge can fall off during rotation.
- Less efficient use of corner depth than LeMans systems
Choosing the Right Organizer for Your Opening Size
9-Inch and 10-Inch Openings
Very narrow openings present significant challenges. Most commercial blind corner organizers require a minimum opening of 12 to 15 inches to accommodate their sliding mechanisms and basket widths. For 9-inch and 10-inch openings, consider these alternatives:
- Small lazy Susans designed for diagonal corner cabinets
- Shelf risers that create vertical tiers within the space
- Pull-out bins on basic drawer slides
- Custom DIY solutions using wire shelving and simple hardware
11-Inch and 12-Inch Openings
The 12-inch opening sits at the threshold of commercial organizer compatibility. While most pull-out systems start at 15 inches, some manufacturers offer compact solutions:
Look for products specifically rated for 12-inch openings, paying close attention to minimum depth and height requirements. A 12-inch opening typically requires at least 20 inches of cabinet depth and 21 inches of height for proper operation.
13-Inch and 14-Inch Openings
The 14-inch opening opens up more options. Kesseböhmer’s LeMans II series begins with a 14-1/4-inch minimum opening for frameless cabinets (14 inches for face-frame cabinets), making it accessible for this size range. When shopping for 13-inch or 14-inch organizers, verify:
- Minimum opening width for both face frame and frameless construction
- Required cabinet depth (typically 19-3/4 to 22 inches)
- Minimum internal height (usually 21-1/2 inches)
- Handedness (left-swing vs. right-swing configurations)
15-Inch Openings and Above
A 15-inch opening provides the most flexibility. Rev-A-Shelf’s 5372 “Cloud” series and 5PSP wire basket systems both start at 15 inches and offer two-tier maple shelves or chrome wire baskets. The 5372-15-MP-L measures 33 inches wide by 21-7/8 inches deep by 24-1/2 inches high, with each shelf supporting 45 pounds.
For 18-inch openings, options expand further with larger baskets, additional tiers, and more robust construction. These wider openings accommodate Rev-A-Shelf’s 5PSP-18-CR (32-1/4 inches wide) with four shelves rated at 35 pounds each.
Top Brands and Where to Buy
Rev-A-Shelf
Rev-A-Shelf dominates the North American market with its 5PSP wire series and 5372 solid-shelf “Cloud” series. Products are available at:
- Woodworker Express (online retailer specializing in cabinet hardware)
- Home Depot (select models in-store and online)
- Lowe’s (limited selection, primarily online)
The 5PSP-15-CR typically retails for $200-$300, while the 5372 series ranges from $250-$350 depending on configuration.
IKEA
IKEA’s UTRUSTA carousel ($110) offers exceptional value for SEKTION cabinet users. The gray melamine finish complements darker cabinets, and installation takes less than an hour with included hardware. Purchase directly from IKEA stores or online with delivery available.
Kesseböhmer
Kesseböhmer products (distributed in the US through Häfele and other specialty suppliers) represent premium quality. The LeMans II series starts around $400-$600, depending on size and finish options. Find authorized distributors through Kesseböhmer’s website or specialty kitchen retailers.
Pull-Out vs. Swing-Out: Making the Right Choice
When to Choose Pull-Out Systems
Pull-out organizers excel in:
- Narrow-depth cabinets where swing clearance is limited
- Heavy storage needs requiring substantial weight capacity
- Frameless cabinets with full-extension slides provide maximum access.
- Retrofit situations where the existing door placement limits swing room
The straight-line motion of pull-out systems makes them intuitive to use, and the two-tier design naturally separates frequently used items (front basket) from occasional-use items (rear basket).
When to Choose Swing-Out Systems
Swing-out organizers are ideal for:
- Deeper cabinets (24+ inches) where maximum storage utilization matters
- Tall cabinets with multiple independently moving shelves prevent stacking issues.
- Awkward corner angles where the organic arc motion provides better access than linear slides
- Premium kitchen installations where the engineering and smooth operation justify higher costs
The LeMans design’s 70% increase in usable storage space makes it particularly valuable in smaller kitchens where every square inch counts.
DIY Blind Corner Cabinet Organizer Guide
Materials Needed
- Wire shelf sections (12-18 inches deep, depending on cabinet)
- Ball-bearing drawer slides (14-22 inch length)
- 3/4-inch plywood or melamine board for base
- Wood screws (1-1/4 inch)
- Cabinet knobs or pulls
- Measuring tape and level
- Drill with bits
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Measure Your Space
Record the cabinet opening width, total cabinet depth, and interior height. Subtract 2 inches from the depth to allow clearance for the sliding mechanism. Subtract 1/2 inch from the opening width to ensure smooth operation.
Record the cabinet opening width, total cabinet depth, and interior height. Subtract 2 inches from the depth to allow clearance for the sliding mechanism. Subtract 1/2 inch from the opening width to ensure smooth operation.
2. Build the Base Platform
Cut plywood to match your adjusted depth measurement and opening width. This platform will mount to the drawer slides and support your wire shelving. Sand edges smooth, then apply edge banding or paint, if desired.
Cut plywood to match your adjusted depth measurement and opening width. This platform will mount to the drawer slides and support your wire shelving. Sand edges smooth, then apply edge banding or paint, if desired.
3. Install Drawer Slides
Mount the cabinet portion of ball-bearing slides to the cabinet floor, positioning them 2-3 inches from the front edge and parallel to the cabinet sides. Ensure they’re level using a straightedge and level tool.
Mount the cabinet portion of ball-bearing slides to the cabinet floor, positioning them 2-3 inches from the front edge and parallel to the cabinet sides. Ensure they’re level using a straightedge and level tool.
4. Attach Slides to Platform
Secure the drawer slides to the underside of your plywood platform, aligning them precisely with the cabinet-mounted portions. Test the sliding action before proceeding.
Secure the drawer slides to the underside of your plywood platform, aligning them precisely with the cabinet-mounted portions. Test the sliding action before proceeding.
5. Add Wire Shelving
Cut wire shelving to fit your platform dimensions. Secure it to the plywood using small screws through the wire grid. For two tiers, create a second, smaller platform that sits atop the first, supported by small wood blocks or metal brackets.
Cut wire shelving to fit your platform dimensions. Secure it to the plywood using small screws through the wire grid. For two tiers, create a second, smaller platform that sits atop the first, supported by small wood blocks or metal brackets.
6. Install Pull Handle
Attach a knob or pull to the front edge of the platform for easy operation. Position it at a comfortable height for your hand.
Attach a knob or pull to the front edge of the platform for easy operation. Position it at a comfortable height for your hand.
7. Test and Adjust
Slide the platform in and out multiple times, checking for smooth operation and adequate clearance at each. Adjust slide position if binding occurs.
Slide the platform in and out multiple times, checking for smooth operation and adequate clearance at each. Adjust slide position if binding occurs.
Cost Breakdown:
- Wire shelving: $15-25
- Drawer slides: $20-40
- Plywood: $10-15
- Hardware: $10-15
Total: $55-95 (compared to $200-600 for commercial units)
Installation Tips for Different Cabinet Types
Base Cabinet Installation
Base blind corner cabinets offer the simplest installation, as you can work at a comfortable height. Key considerations:
- Check for plumbing obstructions before mounting slides or posts.
- Account for hinge interference by measuring from the hinge barrel to ensure adequate clearance
- Use the manufacturer’s template if provided—it eliminates measurement errors.
- Mount to the cabinet floor rather than the sidewalls when possible for maximum stability
Upper Cabinet Installation
Wall-mounted blind corner cabinets require different techniques:
- Support the organizer with a helper or temporary bracing during installation.
- Drill pilot holes to prevent splitting cabinet panels
- Consider the weight capacity of both the organizer and cabinet box—upper cabinets typically support less weight.
- Test door clearance before final tightening to ensure the door opens fully without hitting the organizer
Face Frame vs. Frameless Cabinets
Face frame cabinets (with a wooden frame around the opening) require different measurements than frameless (full-access European-style) cabinets:
Face Frame:
- Measure the opening inside the frame.
- Account for frame thickness (typically 3/4 inch) when calculating depth
- Some organizers require filler strips to ensure proper alignment.
Frameless:
- Measure the full cabinet box opening.
- Slides mount directly to cabinet sides.
- Typically offers 1/4 to 1/2 inch more usable width.
Why Fillers Matter
A filler strip—a narrow piece of wood or composite material—provides necessary clearance between adjacent cabinets. For blind corner installations, fillers ensure:
- Cabinet doors open fully without hitting handles or hardware on adjacent cabinets.
- Organizer mechanisms have adequate clearance to extend completely.
- Proper alignment between cabinet faces for a professional appearance.
Kesseböhmer’s LeMans II system, for example, requires a 500mm (approximately 19-5/8 inch) filler strip for face frame installation.
Maximizing Your Blind Corner Storage
Organization Strategies
Once your organizer is installed, optimize storage with these approaches:
Heavy Items on Lower Shelves: Store cast-iron cookware, stand mixers, and large pots on the bottom tier, where weight distribution is most stable.
Categorize by Frequency: Place daily-use items in the front basket or shelf, relegating seasonal or special-occasion pieces to the back.
Use Drawer Organizers Within Baskets: Small bins or dividers keep lids, utensils, and other small items contained in wire baskets.
Label Everything: Even with improved accessibility, labels help family members return items to their designated spots.
Maintenance and Adjustments
Blind corner organizers require occasional maintenance:
- Lubricate slides annually with silicone spray.
- Tighten mounting screws every 6-12 months as wood expands and contracts.
- Adjust shelf height seasonally if your storage needs change.
- Clean wire baskets by removing them entirely and washing with dish soap
Common Installation Mistakes to Avoid
Ignoring Minimum Cabinet Depth: The most frequent error is purchasing an organizer that’s too deep for the cabinet. Always verify both the organizer’s depth AND the required cabinet depth before buying.
Forgetting About Hinge Clearance: Door hinges protrude into the cabinet interior. Measure from the hinge barrel to ensure your organizer won’t interfere with door operation.
Incorrect Handedness: Blind corner organizers are available in left- and right-hand configurations. Standing in front of the cabinet, if the door is on the left and the blind corner extends to the right, you need a “left door/blind right” organizer.
Skipping the Template: Many manufacturers include paper templates for installation. Use them. They eliminate measurement errors and ensure proper positioning.
Overloading Shelves: Exceeding weight ratings leads to bent wire, damaged slides, or complete failure. Distribute weight evenly and stay within the specified limits.
The Best Blind Corner Cabinet Organizers
After researching dozens of products and analyzing real-world installations, these organizers stand out:
Best Overall: Rev-A-Shelf 5PSP-15-CR
The chrome wire construction, 27-pound per-shelf capacity, and universal handedness make this the most versatile choice for 15-inch openings. Four baskets provide ample storage, and the full-extension slides ensure complete access. Available at major retailers for $225-$275.
The chrome wire construction, 27-pound per-shelf capacity, and universal handedness make this the most versatile choice for 15-inch openings. Four baskets provide ample storage, and the full-extension slides ensure complete access. Available at major retailers for $225-$275.
Best Premium: Kesseböhmer LeMans II
For kitchens where maximum storage and smooth operation justify the investment, LeMans II delivers. The 55-pound shelf capacity, independent shelf movement, and 70% storage increase make it worth the $400-600 price tag. Optional soft-close adds a luxury touch.
For kitchens where maximum storage and smooth operation justify the investment, LeMans II delivers. The 55-pound shelf capacity, independent shelf movement, and 70% storage increase make it worth the $400-600 price tag. Optional soft-close adds a luxury touch.
Best Value: IKEA UTRUSTA
At $110, the UTRUSTA carousel provides exceptional value for SEKTION cabinet owners. The post-free design maximizes usable space, and the 44-pound capacity handles most kitchen items. Installation takes under an hour.
At $110, the UTRUSTA carousel provides exceptional value for SEKTION cabinet owners. The post-free design maximizes usable space, and the 44-pound capacity handles most kitchen items. Installation takes under an hour.
Best DIY Solution: Custom Wire Shelf on Drawer Slides
For $55-95 in materials, you can build a functional two-tier organizer that rivals commercial options. Perfect for odd-sized openings or tight budgets.
For $55-95 in materials, you can build a functional two-tier organizer that rivals commercial options. Perfect for odd-sized openings or tight budgets.
Best for Narrow Openings: Kesseböhmer LeMans II Series 40
With a minimum opening of 14-1/4 inches for frameless cabinets, this is one of the few commercial solutions that accommodates narrow openings while still providing premium functionality.
With a minimum opening of 14-1/4 inches for frameless cabinets, this is one of the few commercial solutions that accommodates narrow openings while still providing premium functionality.
FAQs
- What is the average cost of installing pull-out cabinet organizers?
The cost can vary widely depending on the type of organizer and whether it’s a DIY project or professionally installed. Prices typically range from $50 for simple DIY solutions to $500 or more for custom or premium products. - Can I install pull-out organizers in existing cabinets?
Yes, many pull-out organizers are designed to be retrofitted into existing cabinets. Ensure you measure your cabinet’s dimensions to select the right product. - What tools are needed for DIY installation?
Basic tools like a drill, screwdriver, measuring tape, and level are commonly required. Some organizers may include all the necessary hardware in the kit. - Do pull-out organizers reduce the available storage space?
While pull-out organizers optimize accessibility, they may slightly reduce total storage space due to the frame and sliding mechanisms. - Can pull-out organizers support heavy items like pots and pans?
Most premium and custom organizers are designed to handle significant weight loads. Check the product’s weight capacity before purchase. - What materials are pull-out organizers made from?
Common materials include wood, metal, and wire. Choose a material that matches your kitchen’s aesthetic and durability needs. - Are there organizers for narrow or small cabinets?
Yes, many brands offer solutions specifically designed for narrow cabinets, with some requiring a minimum opening width as small as 6 inches. - Can pull-out organizers be used in corners?
Absolutely! Corner-specific solutions, such as the Kesseböhmer LeMans II Series, are designed to maximize storage space in corner cabinets. - Are pull-out organizers difficult to maintain?
Most organizers are low-maintenance. Regular cleaning with a damp cloth and ensuring that sliding mechanisms remain free of debris are usually sufficient. - Are there eco-friendly options available?
Yes, some brands manufacture organizers using sustainable or recycled materials. Check for eco-friendly certifications when shopping.
Final Thoughts
Blind corner cabinets don’t have to be kitchen storage black holes; with the right organizer—whether pull-out, swing-out, or lazy Susan—you can transform wasted space into highly functional storage. Start by accurately measuring your cabinet opening, depth, and height. Determine whether you need a left-hand or right-hand configuration. Then choose an organizer that fits both your space and budget.
For most homeowners, Rev-A-Shelf’s 5PSP series offers the best balance of quality, functionality, and value. Those with deeper pockets and larger cabinets will appreciate Kesseböhmer’s engineering excellence. And if you’re handy with tools, a DIY solution can deliver impressive results at a fraction of the cost of commercial options.
No matter which route you choose, you’ll finally be able to access every pot, pan, and appliance without contortionist maneuvers. Your back will thank you.