What is the narrowest refrigerator?

The most narrow refrigerator is 24 inches wide and typically has around 10 cubic feet of space inside. This is enough room for one or two people's weekly groceries, making it a typical pick for RVs and apartments. When measuring a spot for your new appliance, you'll want to make sure you have at least 26 to 28 inches of room, as all fridges need clearance so they can operate and be accessed with ease. Check how wide your refrigerator of choice is with the door open, too, to ensure it truly fits.

Does a refrigerator need space around it?

Every type of refrigerator needs space around it. How much space you should allow for is detailed in the installation section of your model's manual. There should be at least a half-inch of clearance on either side and two inches of clearance behind the appliance in most cases. There should be at least an inch of clearance above the refrigerator, too. To install your appliance correctly, it's always best to have a professional help you, and be sure to measure twice—and carefully.

How do you organize a narrow refrigerator?

Space is limited in narrow refrigerators, so you'll want to be extra thoughtful when organizing yours . There are some things you don't need to store in the fridge that will save you space, including coffee, onions, garlic, bread, or tomatoes. Make sure you use right-sized, stackable food storage containers. Items like juices and condiments should be stored in the door bins, and milk or meats can be placed on the bottom shelves. Plan out how you will organize your fridge .

The 7 Best Narrow Refrigerators of 2022

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Narrow fridges maximize food storage without minimizing space in smaller apartments and homes. We researched the best narrow refrigerators, evaluating their capacity, built-in features, and energy efficiency.

Our top pick, the GE GLE12HSPSS 11.9 cu. ft. Built-In Bottom Freezer Refrigerator, has plenty of room for your groceries and customizable shelving, and is Energy Star certified.

Here are the best narrow refrigerators on the market.

Our Top Picks

Best Overall:

GE Built-In Bottom Freezer Refrigerator at Lowe's

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Best Overall, Runner-Up:

LG Electronics Top Freezer Refrigerator at Home Depot

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Best Budget:

Magic Chef Top Freezer Refrigerator at Home Depot

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Best Compact:

Frigidaire Top Freezer Refrigerator at Lowe's

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Best Garage Fridge:

Danby Designer Freezerless Refrigerator at Amazon

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Best Wine Fridge:

Kalamera 18-Bottle Built-in Wine Refrigerator at Amazon

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Best with Ice Maker:

Whirlpool Top Freezer Refrigerator at Lowe's

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In This Article

Our Picks
What to Look for
Standout Features
Why Trust The Spruce

4.5

The GE GLE12HSPSS 11.9 cu. ft. Built-In Bottom Freezer Refrigerator is made to sit flush with your countertops.

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What We Like

Special storage for wine bottles
Sits flush with your countertops
Lots of thoughtful shelving

What We Don't Like

Ice maker is not included
Expensive

What do buyers say? 100+ Home Depot reviewers rated this product 5 stars.

Most people think bottom-freezers are only available in larger refrigerators, but GE’s GLE12HSPSS refrigerator proves space-saving doesn’t have to compromise function. This narrow refrigerator is our top pick because of its temperature-controlled drawer and internal digital controls, on top of its stylish design.

Although this model is a bit more expensive, it offers the look of a built-in, counter-depth refrigerator without requiring the expense of customized cabinetry. An internal hinge and reversible door make this 23.5-inch-wide refrigerator suitable for any small kitchen design. Inside the main compartment, three door shelves, plus three main shelves and two drawers, allow for maximum storage. All of the shelves can be adjusted to preferred heights so any size container is stored with ease.

The internal shelf system also includes a “QuickSpace Shelf” that slides in for any extra-tall items that need to be stored. The additional drawer is a great place to store smaller foods, like juice boxes or deli meats, and has three temperature settings you can choose from. Notably, a removable wine bottle rack is also included so you can easily store up to five bottles of wine in your main refrigerator. If you're not a wine drinker, this section of the fridge can be folded up whenever it's not in use, maximizing the interior space.

While this refrigerator does not include an ice maker, there is the option of adding an ice maker to the purchase. This model is Energy Star certified, so it delivers the same chilling power as standard models while using less energy. On top of all these features, this narrow refrigerator is also ADA compliant, with easy-to-reach controls, and meets accessibility standards for people with disabilities and age and injury-related mobility issues.

LG Electronics 11.1 cu. ft. Top Freezer Refrigerator

Courtesy of Home Depot

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What We Like

Sleek exterior
Tempered glass shelving
Affordable

What We Don't Like

Can be noisy
Average capacity

You don’t have to sacrifice quality when purchasing a narrow refrigerator. The LG LTNC11131V is another top-rated model with all the features that you could want in a fridge. And, this appliance is nice and slim at only 24 inches wide.

Even though this model is narrow, it can easily store an impressive amount of food. It boasts sophisticated features such as a big, humidity-controlled crisper drawer, maintaining the optimal humidity level for fruits and vegetables. An airflow system carries the humidity level throughout the rest of the model and keeps the rest of your food fresh. LED lighting helps you see everything on the tempered glass shelving and can reduce your energy usage after many years of use. Contoured platinum doors and curved handles give this refrigerator a sleek look when it comes to the exterior.

This appliance is a bit louder than other models on the market, but its spacious and organized interior makes it a worthy and affordable investment for your home.

10.1 cu. ft. Top Freezer Refrigerator in Platinum Steel

Courtesy of Home Depot

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What We Like

Inexpensive
Straightforward design
Reversible door

What We Don't Like

No ice maker or dispenser
Not as spacious as other models

If you're sticking to a budget, this Magic Chef top freezer refrigerator will ensure you stay within your limits but aren't sacrificing organizational excellence in the process. It's a little under 24 inches wide to fit in the tiniest of spaces but still has around 10 cubic feet of room for your food. The freezer is 2.7 cubic feet of this space and has storage on the door to avoid losing track of the smaller items in the back.

The lower price point of this piece means that some frills like an ice maker or dispenser aren't included in your purchase. However, it has an automatic defroster and reversible door—both of which are very convenient features. You don't have to worry about whether your items will be accessible or maintain their ideal temperature. It cools right away, so you can plug it in and return soon afterward to put your groceries away.

This model is just one step down from a full-size appliance; it's conveniently compact. It comes in white, platinum steel, and a black finish, which will look stylish in any home.

The Frigidaire FFET1022UV 10.1 cu. ft. Top Freezer Refrigerator is a great, compact option.

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What We Like

Reversible door hinges
Comes in multiple finishes
Good for small living

What We Don't Like

No deli drawer or butter keeper
Not as spacious as other models

If you're living small or simply looking for a reliable fridge with a tiny build, then you should shop for the Frigidaire FFET1022UV. This Frigidaire top freezer refrigerator is a stylish and practical addition to any home. This model features 10.1 cubic feet of space, which is less than some other models on the market. However, it'll be enough to store a small family's groceries for the week or meals for when you're on the road. The refrigerator has 7.4 cubic feet of this space, while the top freezer is 2.7 cubic feet.

It has a standard combo of crispers, door bins, and shelves when it comes to organizing your goods. There is no butter keeper or deli drawer, but reversible hinges give this piece more flexibility and allow you to customize it to your space, lifestyle, and needs. Plus, you can purchase this unit in a white, black, or brushed steel finish and slide it into a corner of your home, thanks to its compact dimensions.

The Best Top-Freezer Refrigerators to Have in Your Kitchen

Courtesy of Home Depot.

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What We Like

Energy Star-certified
Reversible door
Plenty of storage options

What We Don't Like

Average capacity
No ice or water dispenser

When it comes to garages and other small spaces, the Danby DAR110A1WDD measures 24 by 26 by 58 inches and is a perfect fit. It's able to squeeze into your home while still providing plenty of versatile and functional storage space for refrigerated items. The model features a half-depth shelf and four full-depth glass shelves for plenty of snacks, drinks, and leftovers containers. It does not have a freezer.

This Danby fridge is an eco-friendly option; it's Energy Star-certified for its ultra-efficient power usage and use of R600a refrigerant. The reversible door can be mounted on either side and ensures that this piece can quickly become part of your home. The built-in light allows for stellar visibility, and the adjustable thermostat lets you choose your preferred temperature. Given that this piece is relatively roomy and well-designed, it's ideal for a garage fridge.

Kalamera 18-Bottle Single Zone Freestanding Wine Refrigerator

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What We Like

Adjustable wooden shelves
Affordable
Can be installed under a counter

What We Don't Like

One cooling zone
Needs thorough cleaning before use

Every wine lover or avid hostess needs a wine fridge to keep their beverages at the perfect temperature. If you're working with a tiny space that doesn't yield the room for a full-size model, this Kalamera freestanding wine fridge is the perfect option. It holds up to 18 wine bottles of standard size and shape (750mL bottle that doesn't bulge at the sides) and has adjustable wooden racks that are convenient and stylish. To fit in the whole 18 bottles, you'll want to have the middle bottle facing the opposite way on each shelf. This configuration also distributes the weight of the beverages on the six beechwood shelves.

This piece may not be for a connoisseur since it has only one cooling zone that can sometimes fluctuate a degree or two. However, it will be an amenity in any home with little room and a big love for wine. This cooler is a mere 12 inches tall, so you can install it under a counter where a trash compacter used to be or in a freestanding spot in your home. Once you turn it on, you can set the temperature anywhere between 40 and 66 degrees using the one-touch thermostat inside.

This Kalamera model won't break the bank or your ears. It's quiet and affordable. Be sure to scrub it well on the inside before use, according to the instruction manual.

Bottle Capacity: 18 | Zones: 1 | Width: 12 inches | Depth: 22.4 inches | Installation Type: Free-standing and built-in

The Best Wine Refrigerators to Optimally Store Any Wine

4.7

Whirlpool 10.7 cu. ft. Top Freezer Refrigerator in White

Courtesy of Home Depot

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What We Like

Compatible with an ice maker
Very spacious
Reversible door hinges

What We Don't Like

Slightly wider than other models
Not actually fingerprint-resistant

One of the downsides of narrow refrigerators is they don't typically come with ice makers, so you have to use ice cube trays. If you prefer an automatic ice maker, look into the Whirlpool WRT518SZFM, which is compatible with an ice maker kit sold by the brand for less than $100. You will need to install the ice maker yourself, but then you'll be treated to round-the-clock cubes to drop in your water glass.

This fridge is 28 inches wide, and the interior features adjustable shelves and door bins. The freezer has a half-width wire shelf to help you keep items organized. A full-width crisper drawer can store a variety of fruits or vegetables in their optimal environment. Adjust the temperature with the up-front electronic controls, and incandescent lights illuminate the interior, too.

Notably, you can reverse the door hinges on this appliance, ideal for a small living space. Overall, you'll likely be pleased with the performance of this budget-friendly fridge and the bonus that you can install your very own ice maker should you choose.

Final Verdict

For a narrow refrigerator that's well-designed, reliable, and can slide into a small footprint of your home, shop for the GE GLE12HSPSS. This appliance has both a built-in and counter-depth design, as well as special storage for wine bottles. Another good pick is the LG LTNC11131V, with an airflow system to control the entire unit's humidity, LED lights, and a sleek exterior.

Type

Narrow refrigerators can have a bottom freezer, top freezer, or no freezer at all. When shopping, think about your needs and where it's being installed to find the right type for you. A top-freezer model has a classic design that fits well in various homes, comes with helpful door storage, and can cost less. In contrast, a bottom-freezer model can look high-end and is typically easier to organize but will come with a higher price tag.

Organization options

The amount of shelving, drawers, and door bins in your narrow refrigerator impacts how much you can store. So, consider what your organization options are and if they can be adjusted if your needs change. The average narrow fridge will feature two or three shelves and a produce drawer in the fresh food portion. There are high-end models on the market that also give you specialty storage for wine bottles and cans, eliminating the need for an additional appliance.

Reversible door

A reversible door gives you the flexibility to install your narrow refrigerator wherever you see fit. Unlike a model that opens to the left or right, a model with this feature has airtight seals on both outer edges of its door to give it extra flexibility and functionality. If you're looking to install your new appliance in a garage or a tight spot in your kitchen where other appliances are close by, this feature will prove to be handy, as it also features recessed handles. Just note: the seals may become worn over time.

Bottle and can storage

Bottle and can storage in your narrow refrigerator gives you a convenient spot for your drinks. It not only eliminates the need for an extra appliance but also ensures that your seltzer, soda, or wine isn't shaken and moved around much. Especially in narrow refrigerators, where space is quite limited, you can expect this feature to keep things neat and accessible. It's particularly suitable for wine lovers or entertainers.

Garage-ready design

If a narrow refrigerator has a garage-ready design, it can withstand the uneven temperatures of a semi-outdoor space. Whether the garage becomes hot or cold, the appliance will operate properly and maintain the internal temperature you set. Any household that wants to use their new fridge as extra storage will find this feature to be convenient and a must-have, as it lets you install a narrow fridge just about anywhere.

FAQ

What is the narrowest refrigerator?

The most narrow refrigerator is 24 inches wide and typically has around 10 cubic feet of space inside. This is enough room for one or two people's weekly groceries, making it a typical pick for RVs and apartments. When measuring a spot for your new appliance, you'll want to make sure you have at least 26 to 28 inches of room, as all fridges need clearance so they can operate and be accessed with ease. Check how wide your refrigerator of choice is with the door open, too, to ensure it truly fits.
Does a refrigerator need space around it?

Every type of refrigerator needs space around it. How much space you should allow for is detailed in the installation section of your model's manual. There should be at least a half-inch of clearance on either side and two inches of clearance behind the appliance in most cases. There should be at least an inch of clearance above the refrigerator, too. To install your appliance correctly, it's always best to have a professional help you, and be sure to measure twice—and carefully.
How do you organize a narrow refrigerator?

Space is limited in narrow refrigerators, so you'll want to be extra thoughtful when organizing yours. There are some things you don't need to store in the fridge that will save you space, including coffee, onions, garlic, bread, or tomatoes. Make sure you use right-sized, stackable food storage containers. Items like juices and condiments should be stored in the door bins, and milk or meats can be placed on the bottom shelves. Plan out how you will organize your fridge.

This article was edited and updated by Marisa Casciano, the large appliance expert for The Spruce. Throughout her career, she's researched the ins and outs of air purifiers, dishwashers, cooktops, and more in the home and lifestyle space. She's lived in multiple apartments and understands the need to conserve space with a narrow refrigerator, as well as the desire to experience modern amenities.