How to Choose a Fridge for a Small Kitchen or Apartment
Small kitchens and apartments present real challenges when it comes to fridge selection. The good news is there are excellent options at every capacity level, and choosing the right one requires just a bit of planning.
Step 1: Measure Everything
Before you even look at fridges, measure:
- Width of the available cavity (the space the fridge will fit in)
- Height of the cavity (allow 2–5cm above the fridge for ventilation and to open it for delivery)
- Depth of the cavity (most fridges are 60–68cm deep)
- Width of your narrowest doorway, hallway, or stairwell the fridge must pass through on delivery
Write these down before you go shopping or browse online. Many people skip this step and end up with a fridge that doesn't fit.
Step 2: Understand Fridge Types for Small Spaces
Top Mount Fridges (Most Space-Efficient)
Top mount fridges (freezer on top, fridge below) tend to be the most compact option for a given capacity. A 300–400L top mount fridge is typically 60cm wide, 60cm deep, and 150–170cm tall — fitting in most standard kitchen cavities.
Bottom Mount Fridges
Freezer on the bottom, fridge on top. Similar dimensions to top mount at the same capacity. The advantage is that you access the fridge section (which you use more) at eye level. The disadvantage is the freezer requires bending. Available from around 300L.
Bar/Under-Bench Fridges
For very small spaces or as a secondary fridge, under-bench (bar) fridges typically offer 50–180L capacity and fit under a standard kitchen bench (height under 90cm). Great for small apartments, studios, or as a beer/beverage fridge.
What to Avoid in Small Kitchens
- French door fridges (typically 700–900mm wide — often too wide for small kitchens)
- American side-by-side fridges (very wide, designed for large kitchens)
- Very deep integrated fridges if your kitchen isn't designed for them
Step 3: Capacity Requirements
For small households in apartments:
- 1 person: 150–250L is usually sufficient
- 2 people: 250–340L handles most needs comfortably
- Couple who cook at home and batch cook: 340–420L gives good headroom
Step 4: Energy Efficiency
In an apartment where the fridge may be near your living and sleeping area, energy star rating matters for both running cost and noise. Higher rated models are quieter and cheaper to run.
Browse Our Range
At Oceania Appliances, we carry a range of compact and standard fridges suitable for apartments and small kitchens. We'll help you find the right size, style, and price.
Oceania Appliances
2/14 Centre Place, Wetherill Park NSW 2164
Phone: 0481 243 211
Open 7 days, 10am – 8pm
Free delivery across Sydney