Is your kitchen feeling a little cramped, especially around that refrigerator spot? You’re not alone! Many homeowners find themselves staring at a space that’s just a little too narrow for standard refrigerators, leading to frustrating searches and compromises. Finding a refrigerator that fits perfectly without sacrificing essential storage is a real challenge, and it can feel like a puzzle with missing pieces.
That’s where this guide comes in! We understand the unique needs of smaller kitchen spaces, and we’re here to make your journey to finding the ideal 31-inch wide refrigerator much easier. You’ll discover what makes these specific models a great choice, what key features to look for, and how to avoid common pitfalls. Get ready to unlock the secrets to a stylish and functional kitchen!
So, if you’re ready to stop the endless scrolling and start enjoying a refrigerator that fits your space and your life, keep reading. We’ve gathered all the important information to help you make a confident and happy decision.
Our Top 5 31 Inch Wide Refrigerator Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 31 Inch Wide Refrigerator Detailed Reviews
1. Kenmore 46-75525 29.88 Inch Counter-Depth French Door Refrigerator/Freezer with Fingerprint-Resistant Stainless Steel
Rating: 8.8/10
The Kenmore 46-75525 refrigerator is a stylish and smart addition to any kitchen. Its counter-depth design gives your kitchen a clean, built-in look without taking up too much space. With 17.5 cubic feet of storage, it holds plenty of food for busy families. The French door style makes it easy to grab what you need from both the fridge and the freezer.
What We Like:
- The counter-depth design saves space and looks great.
- It cools food quickly and keeps temperatures even with the Chill & Multi-Flow Air System.
- Gallon door bins hold big bottles, and the two-tier freezer drawer keeps things organized.
- You get ice whenever you need it with the factory-installed ice maker.
- The fingerprint-resistant stainless steel finish stays clean.
- It’s energy efficient, which saves you money on electricity bills.
- The inverter compressor runs quietly.
- Bright LED lighting makes it easy to see everything inside.
What Could Be Improved:
- For some kitchens, 17.5 cu. ft. might be a bit small for very large families.
- While it’s designed to be space-saving, the exact internal layout might not fit everyone’s specific storage needs perfectly.
This Kenmore refrigerator offers a great combination of style, functionality, and energy efficiency. It’s a solid choice for those looking to upgrade their kitchen appliances.
2. Kenmore 36″ Side-by-Side Refrigerator with Freezer – Accela Chill
Rating: 9.4/10
Upgrade your kitchen with the Kenmore 36″ Side-by-Side Refrigerator. This sleek, fingerprint-resistant stainless steel appliance offers a generous 20 cu. ft. of space, perfect for storing all your family’s favorites. Its counter-depth design means it fits beautifully into your kitchen without sticking out too far, making your space feel bigger.
What We Like:
- The Accela Chill feature quickly cools down new groceries.
- A multi-flow air system keeps food fresh on every shelf.
- Enjoy instant, filtered water and ice from the dispenser.
- Adjustable, edge-to-edge glass shelves make storage flexible and easy to clean.
- Bright LED lighting helps you see everything inside.
- It’s ENERGY STAR Certified, saving you money on energy bills.
- The fingerprint-resistant finish keeps it looking clean and stylish.
- Counter-depth design saves space in your kitchen.
What Could Be Improved:
- While 20 cu. ft. is good, some larger families might need even more space.
- The ice maker capacity could be higher for very frequent ice users.
This Kenmore refrigerator is a smart choice for families who want a stylish and functional appliance. It offers great features and helps keep your kitchen looking its best.
3. Hamilton Beach HBF2064 20.6 cu ft Counter Depth Full Size Refrigerator
Rating: 8.9/10
The Hamilton Beach HBF2064 20.6 cu ft Counter Depth Full Size Refrigerator in Stainless Steel offers a fantastic blend of style and practicality for your kitchen. Its sleek stainless steel finish complements any decor, while its smart design makes organizing your groceries a breeze. This refrigerator is built to handle the demands of a busy family, keeping your food fresh and easily accessible.
What We Like:
- It has a large 20.6 cu ft capacity, which is great for big families.
- The side-by-side doors make it easy to see and grab both fresh and frozen items.
- You can easily change the temperature with the digital display inside.
- The extra-large door bins hold gallons of drinks, saving space inside.
- Bright LED lights help you find everything, even in the back.
- Its counter-depth design fits neatly into your kitchen without sticking out too far.
- Convenient delivery and installation options are available in select areas.
What Could Be Improved:
- The digital display is located inside, which might be less convenient for some users.
- While the capacity is large, some very large families might still find it a bit snug.
This Hamilton Beach refrigerator is a strong contender for families seeking a stylish and functional appliance. Its thoughtful features and counter-depth design make it a smart addition to any modern kitchen.
4. Kenmore 30″ Top Mount Refrigerator with Freezer – Adjustable Shelving
Rating: 9.1/10
Meet the Kenmore 30″ Top Mount Refrigerator with Freezer, a smart choice for busy families. This fridge offers a good amount of space, even for smaller kitchens. Its fingerprint-resistant stainless steel finish looks great and is easy to clean.
What We Like:
- Spacious for its size: 18.2 cu. ft. fits plenty of groceries without taking up too much room.
- Flexible storage: Adjustable glass shelves let you fit tall items like drink pitchers or party trays.
- Organized door bins: Gallon door storage and freezer bins keep drinks, condiments, and small frozen items neat.
- Keeps produce fresh: Humidity-controlled crispers help fruits and veggies last longer.
- Energy efficient: It’s ENERGY STAR certified, which can help lower your electricity bill.
- Bright LED lighting: You can easily see everything inside, even in the back.
- Fingerprint-resistant finish: Smudges wipe away easily, keeping your kitchen looking clean.
What Could Be Improved:
- Icemaker is optional: You have to buy it separately if you want an icemaker.
- Standard depth: While it fits smaller kitchens well, very large families might need more freezer space.
This Kenmore refrigerator makes storing and organizing your food simple. It’s a solid option for keeping your kitchen running smoothly.
5. Hamilton Beach HBFR1504 Full Size Counter Depth Refrigerator with Two Freezer Drawers
Rating: 8.5/10
The Hamilton Beach HBFR1504 Full Size Counter Depth Refrigerator is a stylish and practical addition to any kitchen. Its stainless steel finish looks great. This fridge offers plenty of space for all your groceries. It’s designed to fit perfectly into your counter space, giving your kitchen a sleek, built-in look.
What We Like:
- Large Capacity: The 17.9 cu. ft. of space is generous. It easily holds food for a whole family.
- Two Freezer Drawers: Having two separate freezer drawers keeps your frozen items organized and easy to find.
- Temperature Control: The thermostat lets you set the perfect temperature. This keeps your food fresh for longer.
- Customizable Interior: You can easily adjust the shelf height. This helps you fit different-sized items.
- Interior Light: The built-in lamp makes it easy to see everything inside, even in the back.
What Could Be Improved:
- Counter Depth Size: While it looks sleek, the counter-depth design means it might not hold as much as a standard-depth refrigerator.
- Freezer Drawer Organization: While the two drawers are good, some users might want more dividers or compartments within the drawers themselves for even better organization.
This Hamilton Beach refrigerator offers a good balance of style and functionality. It’s a solid choice for families needing ample, organized food storage.
Your Guide to Finding the Perfect 31-Inch Wide Refrigerator
Finding the right refrigerator is a big deal for any kitchen. A 31-inch wide refrigerator is a popular choice because it fits in many spaces. This guide will help you pick the best one for your home. We’ll cover what to look for, what makes a fridge good, and how it will make your life easier.
Key Features to Look For
1. Capacity and Storage Needs
Think about how much food you usually store. A 31-inch wide fridge comes in different sizes. Some are small, perfect for one or two people. Others are bigger and can hold lots of groceries for a family. Look at the shelves and drawers inside. Do they seem like they will fit your milk jugs, produce, and leftovers?
2. Style and Configuration
Refrigerators come in different styles. The most common for this size is the top-freezer model. The freezer is on top, and the refrigerator is below. There are also bottom-freezer models where the fridge is on top. Some 31-inch models might be side-by-side, but these are less common. Think about which one makes it easiest for you to grab your most-used items.
3. Energy Efficiency
An energy-efficient refrigerator saves you money on your electricity bill. Look for the ENERGY STAR label. This means the fridge meets strict standards for saving energy. It’s good for your wallet and the planet.
4. Noise Level
Some refrigerators can be loud. If your kitchen is near a living area, you might want a quiet model. Check product reviews for mentions of noise. Many newer fridges are designed to run very quietly.
Important Materials
The materials used in a refrigerator affect its durability and how it looks. Most refrigerators have a stainless steel or enamel finish. Stainless steel looks modern and is easy to clean. Enamel is a classic finish that is also easy to maintain. Inside, shelves are often made of strong glass or plastic. Look for sturdy materials that will last.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
What Makes a Fridge Better?
- Good Temperature Control: The fridge should keep your food at the right temperature to keep it fresh.
- Smart Features: Some fridges have digital displays that let you control the temperature easily. Others might have special drawers for fruits and vegetables that keep them fresh longer.
- Durability: A well-built fridge with strong parts will last for many years.
What Can Make a Fridge Less Good?
- Poor Insulation: This means the fridge might use more energy to stay cold.
- Cheap Parts: If the drawers or shelves feel flimsy, they might break easily.
- Difficult Cleaning: Some designs make it hard to reach all the nooks and crannies for cleaning.
User Experience and Use Cases
A 31-inch wide refrigerator is a great choice for many situations. It’s perfect for smaller kitchens, apartments, or as a secondary fridge in a garage or basement. Its size makes it easy to fit into tight spaces. Many people find the top-freezer or bottom-freezer models very convenient for everyday use. You can easily access your fresh food without bending over too much.
If you live alone or with a partner, a 31-inch fridge offers enough space for your needs. Families might find it works well if they have a larger pantry or a second freezer for bulk items. The ease of use and the efficient cooling make it a reliable appliance for keeping your food safe and fresh.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What is the average capacity of a 31-inch wide refrigerator?
A: The capacity can vary, but most 31-inch wide refrigerators hold between 15 to 20 cubic feet of food. This is enough for small families or couples.
Q: Are 31-inch wide refrigerators energy efficient?
A: Many 31-inch wide refrigerators are ENERGY STAR certified, meaning they are very energy efficient. Always check for the ENERGY STAR label.
Q: How much do 31-inch wide refrigerators typically cost?
A: Prices can range from around $500 to $1,000 or more, depending on the brand, features, and finish.
Q: What is the most common style for a 31-inch wide refrigerator?
A: The most common styles are top-freezer and bottom-freezer models. Side-by-side models are less common in this width.
Q: Can a 31-inch wide refrigerator fit in a small kitchen?
A: Yes, a 31-inch wide refrigerator is specifically designed to fit well in smaller kitchens, apartments, and tight spaces.
Q: What are the benefits of a stainless steel finish?
A: Stainless steel looks nice, is durable, and is generally easy to clean and resist fingerprints.
Q: How do I choose the right capacity?
A: Consider how many people are in your household and how often you shop for groceries. For one or two people, 15 cubic feet might be enough. For a small family, aim for closer to 18-20 cubic feet.
Q: What does “refrigerator configuration” mean?
A: It refers to how the freezer and refrigerator sections are arranged, like top-freezer, bottom-freezer, or side-by-side.
Q: Is a quiet refrigerator important?
A: If your kitchen is close to where you relax or sleep, a quieter model can improve your comfort.
Q: Where can I find reviews for 31-inch wide refrigerators?
A: You can find reviews on appliance store websites, consumer review sites, and product blogs.
In conclusion, every product has unique features and benefits. We hope this review helps you decide if it meets your needs. An informed choice ensures the best experience.
If you have any questions or feedback, please share them in the comments. Your input helps everyone. Thank you for reading.
Hi, I’m Scott Fischer, the voice behind SliceItRight. My passion for food started in my grandmother’s kitchen, where I learned the art of slicing, dicing, and creating delicious meals. Over the years, I’ve explored everything from the perfect kitchen gadgets to mastering culinary techniques, and I’m here to share all of it with you. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced home chef, my goal is to make cooking easier, more enjoyable, and a lot more fun. So, let’s slice it right and cook up something amazing together!