How to deal with shelf-doubt.

Are you wondering if open shelving is right for you? You really want to do it, but you’re scared? You can’t commit? Girrrrrl, please. Let me talk you out of your fears.

Fear #1: “I will lose so much storage space!”

False. You will most likely gain space. Better After reader Jenny and her husband recently ripped out the small set of cupboards in their kitchen and replaced them with open shelving. Not only does it look so much lighter and spacious, I’d bet money that they are able to fit more on their shelves now than they ever could in those wussy cabinets.

Fear #2: “It does look lighter and more spacious. Are you sure that isn’t just because they knocked out a whole wall and painted and upgraded everything else?”

Ok, that’s not really a fear, but yes that’s true. That obviously made a huge, wonderful difference. But my favorite part is still those shelves.

Fear #3: “You don’t understand. My cabinets are currently jam-packed with crap. I have towers of mismatched plastic cups that are older than my kids.”

Are you listening to yourself girlfriend? Toss that crap! Dejunk those cabinets! Look at the contents of Jenny’s shelves here. Simple, streamlined, and cohesive. What more do you need?

Fear #4: “Sure, but what about DUST? I don’t want my dishes getting all DUSTY. Did you ever think about that?”

Look hunbun, as long as you are using the items regularly, it shouldn’t be a problem. And if you are not using them regularly, what the heck do you have them for? (See Fear #3). And also, occasional shelf dusting is a small price to pay for the fabulous open-shelving kitchen you’ve always wanted, right?

“I guess you’re right! Wow, I never looked at it that way. Thanks friend! You’re the best!”

*tearful hugs*

*credits roll*