Lots of organizers tell us that using Lazy Susans in pantries, cabinets, and fridges is a good way to store things in the kitchen.  What they don’t mention is that buying the right spinners makes all the difference in the just how useful they really are. 

For storage purposes, you need to buy one that is utilitarian.  There are some that are are pretty or clever or cute.  This is not the time for those; rather you should be focused on functionality.

The first feature to think about is size.  You would like to find a Lazy Susan that is the same depth or just a smidge shorter than place where you will use it.  Space between the Lazy Susan and the back of the enclosure is generally wasted so you want to minimize that space.

Next look at the height of your Lazy Susan before buying.  Some are raised up an inch or even more from the surface, limiting the height of the items that you can store on it.  You will really regret that extra half inch when you find that the syrup container is a half inch too tall to fit. 

Look for ones that hug the countertop and yet spin easily.  Heavy duty hard plastic or stainless steel are the best materials for durability and an easy spin.

You should use Lazy Susans with rims if they are going to be in an enclosed space.  A rim of at least 1” is desirable and 2” or 3” would be even better.  Without this, small items on the Lazy Susan have a knack for falling off.  In the back corner.  Where you can’t see them.  And you won’t find them until weeks later.  Sound familiar?

Finally it is a really nice extra if you find a Lazy Susan that has handles so that you can easily pick it up if you need to move it for cleaning or other reasons.  And using one that has high sides but that is clear plastic means that you can both keep the items in place and yet still see everything that’s on the spinner, even the shorties.

Now that’s useful information!