By Simon, Better Little Home · Updated November 2, 2026 · How we choose
Most upper kitchen cabinets are about 12 inches deep outside and closer to 11 inches inside. Many shelf risers are made for deeper pantry shelves, which is why people end up with risers that block the door or leave plates hanging over the edge.
A riser should split one tall gap into two useful levels. Here’s how to size one for a shallow cabinet, and which ones fit.
Watch the short video: Shelf risers: measure this first
Quick picks
- Best overall: SONGMICS Cabinet Shelf, Set of 2
- Best stackable: Amazon Basics Stackable Cabinet Shelf
- Best for wide cabinets: Expandable Cabinet Shelf, 15.5–25.5 in
- Most adjustable: Expandable & Stackable Shelves, Set of 2
Size a riser in two minutes
- Inside depth: measure from the back wall to the inside of the face frame. The riser should be at least ½ inch shallower so the door closes.
- Height between shelves: subtract the riser height. If less than about 4 inches is left above it, the top level only suits mugs or flat items.
- Width: measure between the door hinges, not wall to wall. Hinges stick into the opening.
- What you’ll store: dinner plates are usually 10 to 11 inches across. They won’t sit on an 8-inch-deep riser, so plan plates underneath and bowls or mugs on top.
Size comparison at a glance
| Riser | Depth | Width | Height | Capacity |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Amazon Basics Stackable | 8 in | 12.5 in | 4.5 in | not listed |
| SONGMICS (set of 2) | 7.7 in | 11.7 in | 6.2 in | 33 lb |
| Expandable & Stackable (set of 2) | 8.3 in | up to 20.5 in | 8.7 in | 22 lb |
| Expandable 15.5–25.5 in (2 pack) | 8.7 in | 15.5–25.5 in | 9.8 in | 22 lb |
The risers
1. SONGMICS Cabinet Organizer Shelf, Set of 2
Best for: standard 12-inch upper cabinets with mugs, bowls, and spice jars.
Fit check: Under 8 inches deep, so the door still closes. Two in a set fill a typical 24-inch cabinet.
What buyers say: Buyers say it adds real cabinet space and is easy to put together. The common complaint: Some find it wobbly or smaller than expected, and a few mention screw problems.
Skip it if: you want dinner plates on top; it isn’t deep enough.
Check current price on Amazon →
2. Amazon Basics Stackable Metal Cabinet Shelf
Best for: low cabinets or the freezer, where you only need a short second level.
Fit check: Only 4.5 inches tall and stackable, so you can match your cabinet height.
What buyers say: Buyers use it in freezers and pantries and say it makes the space usable. The common complaint: Not everyone finds it sturdy, and some say it’s smaller than expected.
Skip it if: you need a single riser taller than about 5 inches.
Check current price on Amazon →
3. Expandable Kitchen Cabinet Shelf, 15.5–25.5 in, 2 Pack
Best for: wide cabinets where you want one continuous upper level.
Fit check: Expands from 15.5 to 25.5 inches. Nearly 9 inches deep, so measure a shallow cabinet carefully.
What buyers say: Buyers like the adjustable height and length and that it shortens for tight spots. The common complaint: It’s on the deep side for older or very shallow cabinets.
Skip it if: your cabinet is under about 9½ inches deep inside.
Check current price on Amazon →
4. Expandable & Stackable Cabinet Shelves, Set of 2
Best for: corner cabinets and mug storage.
Fit check: Adjusts in width and height, and the two can stack.
What buyers say: Buyers like the adjustability and say it fits corners well. The common complaint: Opinions on value for money are mixed.
Skip it if: you want the cheapest option.
Check current price on Amazon →
Common questions
How deep are standard kitchen cabinets?
Upper cabinets are usually about 12 inches deep outside and roughly 11 inches inside. Base cabinets are usually about 24 inches deep.
How tall should a shelf riser be?
Leave at least 4 inches above the riser for the top level to be useful. For mugs, a 5- to 6-inch riser usually works.
Can I put dinner plates on a shelf riser?
Only if the riser is deeper than the plates. Most risers are about 8 inches deep, so plates usually go underneath.