APARTMENT SIZED REFRIGERATORS: WHAT SIZE DO YOU NEED?

Dimensions of an Apartment Size Refrigerator

While what is considered an apartment-sized refrigerator can vary, you can usually fit a refrigerator under 33 inches wide in an apartment without feeling cramped. Small apartment sized refrigerators typically range from 22 to 24 inches in width with an interior capacity between 7 and 14 cubic feet. This makes them significantly smaller than full-sized models but larger than mini-fridges. The height of these compact refrigerators is usually similar to standard refrigerators, ranging from 60 to 75 inches tall. These small refrigerator sizes tend to offer minimal features and simplified designs.

If you are looking for a little bit more, such as small French door styles or in-door ice dispensers, you can still find a standard fridge on the smaller side. The smallest standard refrigerator size is 30 inches wide with capacities typically ranging from 17-20 cubic feet. Small refrigerators in this size group tend to offer a wider selection of styles and features while often still fitting in apartments or other small spaces. 

Learn more about all refrigerator sizes and how to measure your space for the right refrigerator dimensions.

Small Apartment sized: 24-Inch Wide Refrigerators

24-inch refrigerators are typically the smallest full-sized refrigerators that would not be considered mini fridges. They feature fully separated refrigerator and freezer compartments and tend to be as tall as standard refrigerators. However, most 24-inch wide refrigerators are limited to top or bottom freezer configurations, which may restrict your choices if you prefer other layouts. You also won’t usually find many extras like exterior water dispensers, built-in ice makers or temperature-controlled zones in these models.

Despite their smaller size, 24-inch refrigerators still provide ample storage space for most small households with one or two people. They often include features like adjustable shelves, crisper drawers, and door bins to maximize storage efficiency and may use less energy than larger models. If you are looking for a small space refrigerator with all the basics and few of the extras, a 24-inch compact refrigerator might be just what you need.

Small Top or Bottom Freezer Refrigerators

For a classic layout and a budget-friendly option, consider top or bottom freezer fridges. This familiar design features one larger compartment for the refrigerator and a smaller freezer compartment, each with its own door. Top freezer refrigerators are the most traditional style and come in the largest range of sizes, including compact, 24-inch models. You can also find 24 or 30-inch wide bottom freezer fridges if you prefer a freezer drawer below, with fresh items kept at eye-level. A 30-inch wide fridge will provide a bit more capacity and may have potential upgrades like a built-in ice maker.

Upgrading to 30-Inch Wide Refrigerators

30-inch refrigerators are the smallest standard refrigerator and offer more versatility in terms of layout options and features compared to their 24-inch counterparts. This size category includes classic top and bottom freezer models as well as contemporary French door and side-by-side layouts, upgraded handles and other premium features on various models.

Do 30-Inch Refrigerators Come with Ice Makers?

Yes, you can find 30-inch wide refrigerators with ice makers and water dispensers, along with other features like in-door ice, premium finishes and humidity-controlled compartments. These conveniences are more commonly found in this size category compared to smaller models, adding functionality and ease of use to your kitchen appliance.

30-Inch Wide French Door Refrigerators

Opting for a 30-inch model allows you to fit a small French door refrigerator into your space so you don’t have to compromise on style or convenience. The pantry-like layout with wide shelves and large door bins, allows for easy storage of oversized items like pizza boxes and large containers. Some models come equipped with upgraded features like water and ice dispensers and temperature-controlled zones. This combination of modern design and functional features makes a French door refrigerator for small spaces a smart choice for those looking to optimize their living area.

This 30-inch French door refrigerator from Maytag brand offers many of the features you’d find on larger models. This small French door refrigerator with ice and water dispensers also features a temperature-controlled Wide-N-Fresh™ deli drawer which is the ideal size for large party platters and deli trays.

What is the smallest French door refrigerator with an ice and water dispenser?

The smallest French door refrigerators with ice and water dispensers are typically around 30 inches wide. While there are more compact configurations available, those with built-in ice and water dispensers tend to be at least 30 inches wide to accommodate the additional components and double door layout.

Small Side-by-Side Refrigerators

The smallest side-by-side refrigerator you will typically find is 33 inches wide. However, the narrow doors require less space to swing open than a typical top or bottom freezer model. If you have a narrow kitchen or small apartment, don’t rule out side-by-side options. This design gives you a sleek, contemporary look with equal-sized freezer and fridge spaces lined with convenient vertical shelving. You’ll also find other conveniences on select compact side-by-side refrigerators like ice makers, water dispensers and enhanced lighting, top to bottom. Explore Maytag^® side-by-side refrigerators to learn more.

Other Small Space Refrigerator Options

• Counter-depth refrigerators: If you have a long and narrow kitchen, you might be able to opt for wider refrigerators that offer reduced depth. Counter-depth refrigerators have a narrow profile compared to standard refrigerators, shaving off around 6 inches. This type of fridge shouldn’t extend past standard countertops, offering a streamlined solution for tight spaces. Shop counter-depth refrigerators from Maytag brand to explore this style.

• Mini fridges: If you are truly strapped for space, a mini fridge might be your only option. While these extra small refrigerators usually don’t include a separate freezer, they may have a small compartment that can keep a few items frozen. You could also add a mini fridge to another room of your apartment in addition to your small kitchen refrigerator to add a little more storage.

• Countertop ice makers: Maximize space in your small refrigerator freezer by skipping the ice maker kit and adding a countertop appliance to do the job instead.

• Undercounter refrigerators: If your layout won’t accommodate a wide fridge, consider adding an undercounter option either in place of or in addition to your main refrigerator. These small beverage refrigerators can free up space in your apartment sized main fridge, or serve as a sleeker version of a mini fridge.

Learn more about the different types of refrigerators and features with this refrigerator buying guide, or discover the latest refrigerator trends to keep your kitchen humming.