How to Store and Organise Your Food Processor Accessories
One of the great advantages of a quality food processor is the array of attachments that transform it from a simple chopper into a complete food preparation system. The downside? All those blades, discs, and accessories need somewhere to live. Poor storage not only clutters your kitchen but can damage your equipment and pose safety hazards.
This guide explores practical storage solutions that keep your accessories organised, protected, and readily accessible when you need them.
Why Proper Storage Matters
Beyond simple tidiness, proper accessory storage serves several important purposes:
- Safety: Loose blades in drawers are accident waiting to happen. You may reach in without looking and grab a sharp edge
- Protection: Blades that jostle against other items can become dull, chipped, or damaged
- Accessibility: When accessories are easy to find, you'll actually use them rather than defaulting to the S-blade for everything
- Longevity: Protected accessories last longer and perform better
- Completeness: Organised storage helps you keep track of all parts and notice if something goes missing
Never store loose blades in a drawer with other utensils. This is the leading cause of food processor-related injuries and quickly dulls your blades. Even "just for now" becomes a dangerous habit.
Built-In Storage Solutions
Many mid-range and premium food processors come with integrated storage solutions. Understanding these options can help you choose a model that fits your organisational needs:
In-Bowl Storage
The simplest approach: store accessories inside the work bowl itself. Some models include a dedicated accessory holder or stem that keeps blades organised within the bowl. This keeps everything together and protected by the lid.
Pros: No additional storage needed, everything stays together
Cons: Must remove accessories before each use, can scratch bowl if not careful
Integrated Accessory Caddies
Premium models like the Breville Kitchen Wizz 9 include built-in storage caddies that mount on the base or attach to the bowl. These typically hold all included discs and blades in designated slots.
Pros: Purpose-built, protects blades, keeps items visible and accessible
Cons: Only available on some models, limited to included accessories
Original Packaging
Many manufacturers design their packaging to serve as ongoing storage. The foam inserts that protected accessories during shipping can continue protecting them in your cupboard.
Pros: Free, fits accessories perfectly
Cons: Often bulky, may deteriorate over time
- Check if built-in storage is included
- Consider the total footprint including accessories
- Look at how discs and blades are organised
- Read reviews mentioning storage convenience
DIY Storage Solutions
If your food processor doesn't include dedicated storage, or you want a better solution, these approaches work well:
Blade Guards and Covers
Simple plastic blade guards slip over cutting edges, allowing safer drawer storage. Many are universal and fit most standard blade sizes. Look for guards that cover the entire cutting edge, not just the tips.
Dedicated Containers
A medium-sized plastic container with a secure lid can hold all your accessories safely. For extra protection:
- Line the bottom with a folded tea towel for cushioning
- Stand discs vertically using cardboard dividers
- Keep the S-blade in the centre where it can't contact edges
- Store the pusher and other parts in the same container
Drawer Organisers
If you prefer drawer storage, invest in proper organisation:
- Use a deep drawer organiser with individual compartments
- Ensure compartments are deep enough that blades don't protrude
- Always use blade guards even within the organiser
- Dedicate the drawer section exclusively to food processor items
Wall-Mounted Solutions
For frequently used accessories, consider wall-mounted storage:
- Magnetic knife strips can hold some metal blades (check your specific blades first)
- Pegboard systems with hooks accommodate various accessories
- Custom wall organisers keep everything visible and accessible
A large ziplock bag can serve as an emergency blade protector. While not ideal for long-term storage, it's safer than loose blades in a drawer. Cut a piece of cardboard to slide inside for additional protection.
Organising the Complete Unit
Beyond accessories, consider how you'll store the food processor itself:
Countertop Storage
If you use your food processor frequently (several times per week), countertop storage makes sense. Benefits include:
- Immediate accessibility encourages regular use
- No heavy lifting from cupboards
- Can store accessories in the bowl for grab-and-go convenience
Considerations:
- Takes valuable counter space
- Collects dust between uses
- May not suit all kitchen aesthetics
Cupboard Storage
For occasional users, cupboard storage keeps counters clear:
- Store the base on a lower shelf to avoid lifting overhead
- Use a pull-out shelf if possible for easier access
- Keep bowl and accessories together
- Consider an appliance lift for heavy models
Appliance Garages
Some kitchen designs include enclosed counter-level cabinets called appliance garages. These offer the best of both worlds: accessibility without visible clutter.
Cord Management
Don't forget about the power cord, which can become tangled and damaged without proper management:
- Built-in cord storage: Many models include cord wrap features on the base. Use them to prevent tangles and cord stress
- Loose coiling: If no cord storage exists, coil the cord loosely rather than wrapping it tightly around the base. Tight wrapping stresses the cord where it meets the unit
- Velcro straps: Reusable velcro cable ties keep coiled cords neat without damaging them
- Never wrap under tension: A cord wrapped too tightly can damage internal wiring over time
Creating an Accessory Inventory
Especially with premium models that include numerous attachments, maintaining an inventory helps you:
- Know exactly what accessories you own
- Notice if something goes missing
- Understand what each attachment does
- Plan purchases of additional accessories
Consider taking a photo of all your accessories laid out, with labels. Keep this in your phone or printed in the kitchen for quick reference.
Storage Mistakes to Avoid
- Storing wet: Always dry accessories completely before storing to prevent rust and odours
- Stacking heavy items on top: This can warp plastic components over time
- Extreme temperatures: Avoid storing in areas that get very hot (above oven) or very cold (outdoor sheds)
- Separating components: Keep the pusher with the lid, blades with the bowl. Separated parts get lost
- Ignoring the manual: Check manufacturer recommendations for storage
No storage solution lasts forever. Periodically check blade guards for cracks, containers for integrity, and cord wraps for wear. Replace damaged storage items before they fail to protect your equipment.
Recommended Storage Products
While we don't endorse specific brands, these product categories work well for food processor storage:
- Universal blade guards: Flexible plastic covers that slip over blade edges
- Clear storage containers: See contents at a glance; stackable designs save space
- Drawer dividers: Adjustable compartments for customised organisation
- Appliance caddies: Rolling platforms for heavy units stored in cupboards
- Silicone bands: For holding discs together safely
With thoughtful organisation, your food processor accessories become tools you actually use rather than items that gather dust. The few minutes spent setting up proper storage pays dividends every time you reach for exactly the attachment you need.
For more maintenance tips, see our guide on cleaning and maintaining your food processor.