The situation when there is not enough space in the freezer or main compartment is familiar to every owner of household appliances. We often come across the fact that standard equipment does not provide for convenient placement of large products or specific containers. In such cases, the only solution is to upgrade the internal space by installing an additional storage level.
Manufacture custom shelf requires accuracy and understanding of the structure of your unit. Incorrectly selected material or incorrect installation technology can lead to damage to the evaporator or loss of chamber sealing. Therefore, it is important to study in advance design features your refrigerator model.
In this article we will look in detail at how to make a shelf in the refrigerator, what tools will be needed and what materials are best to use. You will learn about the nuances of working with glass and plastic, and also receive answers to frequently asked questions. A competent approach will extend the life of the equipment and optimize the storage of products.
Choosing material for a new shelf
The first and most important step is to determine the material from which the shelf will be made. In conditions of low temperatures and high humidity they behave differently. Most often they choose tempered glassas it is durable, easy to clean and does not absorb odors. However, it requires caution when processing the edges.
An alternative is food-grade plastic or acrylic. These materials are easier to cut yourself, but are less resistant to mechanical damage. If you plan to store heavy pots or bottles, it is better to give preference to more durable designs.
⚠️ Attention: Do not use regular window glass or non-food grade plastic. With a sharp change in temperature, they may burst, and toxic substances from unsuitable plastic will be transferred into the food.
Wood and plywood in the refrigerator are a controversial option. Although they are durable, wood is hygroscopic and can swell from condensation and become moldy. If you nevertheless decide to use wood, it must be carefully processed special varnishes or oil for contact with food.
Necessary tools and preparation
For high-quality work you will need a minimum set of tools. Without them, creating a smooth and reliable structure is impossible. The main items include a tape measure, a marker and, of course, a tool for cutting the selected material.
If you work with glass, you need a glass cutter and special grinding stones for processing edges. For plastic, a hacksaw for metal fine tooth or jigsaw is suitable. Also do not forget about personal protective equipment - gloves and glasses.
☑️ Preparation for making a shelf
It is important to prepare the workplace. The surface should be flat, clean and covered with a soft cloth to avoid chipping when working with glass. Calculate in advance dimensions of the future shelfleaving small gaps for air circulation.
Step-by-step instructions: how to make a shelf in the refrigerator
The manufacturing process begins with accurate measurements. Measure the width and depth of the interior space where you plan to install. Please note that the shelf should not fit tightly against the walls, otherwise the circulation of cold air will be disrupted cold air circulation.
After taking the measurements, transfer the dimensions to the material. When cutting glass, move the glass cutter firmly and once, then carefully break the sheet. The plastic is cut with a saw or knife, but the edges require grinding to make them smooth and safe.
Next comes the installation stage. If your model comes with factory-installed slides, simply insert the finished shelf. If not, you can use special fastening elements or silicone stops that will not damage the internal coating of the camera.
Check the stability of the structure. It must support the weight of the food without bending. If necessary, strengthen the structure with additional supports in the center.
Comparison of materials for shelves
To make it easier for you to choose the best option, we have prepared a comparison table of basic materials. It will help you weigh all the pros and cons before starting work.
| Material | Strength | Hygiene | Difficulty of processing |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tempered glass | High | Excellent | High (skill required) |
| Food-grade plastic | Average | Good | Low |
| Acrylic (plexiglass) | Average | Good | Average |
| Stainless steel | Very high | Excellent | Very high |
As can be seen from the table, glass wins in hygiene, but loses in processing complexity. Plastic is the most affordable option for beginners. Steel is durable, but it is cold on your hands and food, which is not always convenient.
Choose the material based on your skills and availability of tools. If you are not confident in your abilities when working with glass, it is better to order cutting in a workshop, and installation do it yourself.
Installation and fastening of the structure
Installation of the finished shelf is a crucial moment. It is important not to damage the internal plastic of the refrigerator. Modern models like Indesit or LG often use standard holes in the walls. You can insert metal or plastic support pins into them.
If there are no standard holes, you can use suction cups or special adhesive hooks designed for low temperatures. However, the most reliable way is to use silicone stops. They are applied to the side walls and hold the shelf due to friction and shape.
⚠️ Attention: Never drill through the walls of the refrigerator! This will damage the insulation and may interfere with the freon circuit, which will lead to costly repairs.
Make sure the shelf is installed horizontally. Misalignment can cause liquids to drip or even heavy objects to fall. Check the level using a construction bubble level or an application on your smartphone.
Care and maintenance of homemade shelves
Homemade structures require the same care as factory ones. Glass and plastic are easy to clean with warm water and a mild detergent. Avoid using abrasive powders, which may leave micro scratches.
Check the condition of the fasteners regularly. Over time, plastic can become brittle and silicone can lose its elasticity. At the first signs of destruction, replace the fastening elements to avoid collapse of the shelf together with the products.
When defrosting the refrigerator, remove homemade shelves, if possible, to thoroughly wash and dry them. This will prevent ice from forming in hard-to-reach places and keep the camera looking neat.
How to remove stubborn stains from a new shelf?
To remove berry or grease stains, use a baking soda solution. Apply the paste to the stain, leave for 10 minutes, then rinse with warm water. Do not use chlorine-containing products on plastic parts - they can change the color of the material.
Frequently asked questions (FAQ)
Can I use regular glass instead of tempered glass?
It is strictly not recommended. When cooled, ordinary glass becomes very fragile and can burst from the slightest impact or temperature change, creating the risk of cuts and damage to food.
Will a homemade shelf withstand heavy pots?
It depends on the thickness of the material. For glass, the minimum thickness should be 6-8 mm. A plastic shelf can bend under a weight of more than 5-7 kg, so for heavy items it is better to use lower levels or factory reinforced shelves.
What is the best way to wash a new shelf before installation?
It is best to use warm water with vinegar or mild dishwashing detergent. This will degrease the surface and remove industrial dust without aggressive chemical action.
Will installing your own shelf violate the warranty on the refrigerator?
Installing the shelf on standard guides itself does not violate the warranty. However, if you drill the case or damage the internal plastic during installation, the service center may refuse free repairs.