Is It Bad to Keep a Coffee Machine Under Kitchen Cabinets?

Image of a white kitchen with black countertops and a matching kitchen island. There is a cabinet with bifold doors that reveals a coffee station. — (Image credit: Armelle Habib. Design: Kate Walker Design)

As someone who lives in a flat with limited kitchen counter space, I don't have many options as to where to store (or style) my espresso machine. In fact, almost every inch of my counter space has floating cabinetry above it. So it got me thinking: how bad is it to place your coffee maker under kitchen cabinets, really? And if, like me, this is your only option, what's the fix?

Espresso machines and coffee makers are inherently on the larger side of countertop kitchen appliances. The water tank, birr grinders, and steaming wands all add bulk to the machines and therefore take up more space. And as convenient as it is to tuck a coffee maker neatly under your floating cabinetry, it can actually damage your kitchen over time. Not only that, but it's a more aesthetically pleasing spot than a functional one (filling the tank and grinder isn't easy when the clearance is low). Damage and impracticality? Now those are not things we want included in our caffeine station.

But don't worry, there are some pretty easy fixes to this. Rolling trays and clever coffee nook design help you make the most of whatever counter space you have, while still proudly displaying your espresso machine. Here's everything you need to know about coffee machine placement and the easiest ways to maximize your space.

Why Is Keeping a Coffee Machine Under Cabinets Bad?

Image of a white KitchenAid coffee machine on a wooden countertop with a white tile backsplash and white cabinetry above the machine — My coffee machine lives under my cabinetry, but I typically slide it out when in use, especially during the milk steaming process.

First of all, don't worry; arranging your home coffee bar and storing your coffee machine under your kitchen cabinetry isn't a completely terrible thing to do. This is often the most practical place for many of us — you can neatly tuck your machine away from the main counter space, and the cabinetry overhead is perfect for storing coffee machine accessories, mugs, and more.

However, if this is the best position for your machine, there are a few considerations to be wary of. First and foremost is the steam. Not only is a large amount of water vapor released when practicing milk frothing techniques, but steam is also produced with every espresso shot. It's an unavoidable part of the coffee-making process. Steam can damage cabinetry — moisture warps wood, peels laminate, and can ruin particle board. And if you are reading Livingetc, I'm sure you've put some thought into your kitchen design, and I'd hate to see it ruined.

In terms of convenience, a coffee machine under cabinetry will make daily use more difficult. Whether you have a semi-automatic machine or a manual espresso maker (like the Flair 58 Plus 2), access to the different parts of the machine is essential. For one, with any home barista or bean-to-cup machine, you frequently need to refill the water tank and the burr grinder, and on manual makers, lifting a tall lever is an essential step. Basically, overhead room is often required for a smooth coffee-making operation, and cabinetry in the way can quickly become a nuisance.

Ways to Make This Coffee Machine Spot More Functional

a kitchen with a coffee bar behind bifold doors — A quality home coffee corner requires proper planning and clever styling.

Finding a solution for an under-cabinet espresso machine is simply a matter of planning what your coffee nook needs. And the absolute easiest way to solve this placement problem is to invest in a sliding appliance tray.

A sliding tray for your coffee machine allows you to move the appliance back and forth — slide it out when you are ready to brew, back under the cabinets when it's not in use. Some coffee stands even come with storage drawers underneath so you can hide away gadgets like the portafilter and tamp when not in use. It's all about finding what works for your space and your routine.

Plus, you can find these gadgets in a range of different sizes and styles. Some have a slim design that fits smaller machines (like the De'Longhi Dedica Duo or even a coffee pod machine), and you can choose between rustic wooden designs and sleek black-and-chrome options. Again, it's about finding the piece that will elevate your kitchen and streamline your morning routine.

Below are a few of my favorite pieces to help bust the coffee machine under-cabinetry issue.

JAYOBGO

Appliance Slider 360° Rolling Tray for Coffee Maker

BushProjects

Countertop Appliance Tray With Hidden Rollers

EVERBBKING

Wood Appliance Slider With Rolling Wheels

ANBOXIT

Bamboo Appliance Slider

Taladad

Appliance Slider 360° Rolling Tray for Coffee Maker

Yamazaki

Extendable Kitchen Storage Shelf Tower With Tray

a stylish coffee bar with metallic accessories and a rattan shade wall light — Planning your shelving and storage with enough room to have a smooth routine.

Planning where your espresso machine will live is, of course, about creating a stylish coffee nook, but the right spot can also lead to a coffee machine that functions better. It takes little effort to elevate your caffeination station from novice to true home barista!

For more inspiration on the best appliances, accessories, and endless ways to style, be sure to subscribe to the Livingetc newsletter.

Olivia Wolfe is a Design Writer at Livingetc. She recently graduated from University of the Arts London, London College of Communication with a Masters Degree in Arts and Lifestyle Journalism. In her previous experience, she has worked with multiple multimedia publications in both London and the United States covering a range of culture-related topics, with an expertise in art and design. At the weekends she can be found working on her oil paintings, reading, or antique shopping at one of London's many vintage markets.