Joybuy Insights

Choosing a bathroom storage cabinet: practical tips for creating more space

A bathroom storage cabinet may seem simple to choose, until you take plumbing, moisture, limited floor space and everyday habits into account. A cabinet that looks spacious on paper may be too deep in practice, fail to fit beneath the washbasin or stand unsteadily on a smooth tiled floor.

So watch out for these common pitfalls:

  • Focusing only on appearance: a white bathroom cabinet often suits a range of styles, but colour says nothing about dimensions, load capacity or moisture resistance.
  • Not measuring the available space: especially with a cabinet beneath the washbasin, the trap, waste pipe and skirting boards can restrict installation.
  • Confusing “water-resistant” with suitable for prolonged contact with water: MDF, chipboard, metal and plastic each react differently to moisture. Always check the product specifications and do not place furniture in direct splashing water unless this is specifically stated.
  • Ignoring stability: tall bathroom cabinets and bathroom storage racks can topple if heavy bottles are placed at the top or if they are not properly secured to the wall or between the floor and ceiling.

Which dimensions are important when choosing a bathroom cabinet?

Measure not only the space where you want to place the cabinet, but also the clearance around the furniture. Allow for doors, drawers and the route to the shower or toilet.

1. Width, depth and height

For small bathrooms, a narrow bathroom shelf or bathroom storage rack is often more practical than a wide cabinet. With a tall cabinet, also check the ceiling height and any sloping ceilings.

When choosing a cabinet beneath the washbasin, these measurements are particularly important:

  • the total width of the washbasin;
  • the depth of the washbasin and the wall;
  • the position of the waste pipe and trap;
  • the height of the skirting board or underside of the washbasin;
  • the clearance required for doors or drawers.

According to the product specifications, the JOYFURNOS cabinet with two doors is 88.5 cm wide, 60 cm high and 30 cm deep. The cut-out for the U-shaped pipe is stated as 20 x 15 cm. Measure your washbasin and plumbing carefully beforehand; a universal description does not mean that every sanitary fitting has the same shape.

2. Load capacity and weight distribution

A cabinet with lots of compartments is not automatically suitable for heavy supplies. Shampoo, cleaning products, glass jars and towels can weigh quite a lot together. Check the maximum load per shelf and place heavier items as low down as possible.

The 5five bathroom storage rack has four levels and a stated load capacity of 20 kg per shelf. The 5five telescopic shower organiser does not specify a maximum load capacity. The stated maximum for the JOYFURNOS corner solution is 2 kg per shelf, with a total capacity of 8 kg. These models are therefore mainly suitable for toiletries and lightweight accessories, rather than large bottles of supplies.

3. Material and maintenance

  • MDF or chipboard: offers a furniture-style appearance, but damaged edges need extra attention in a humid room.
  • Metal: suitable for open racks and shower storage solutions; check the finish and keep the surface clean and dry.
  • Polypropylene: lightweight and easy to wipe clean, as with some open bathroom racks.
  • Glass and polyresin: work well with bathroom accessories, but require careful use to prevent knocks and falls.

According to the product description, the JOYFURNOS shower shelf has a powder-coated finish and the shelves feature drainage holes. These are the supplier’s product specifications, not a guarantee that the rack will remain rust-free in every situation. For all materials, regular wiping with a soft, damp cloth is helpful. Avoid abrasive cleaning products unless permitted by the manufacturer.

Our recommendations for different uses

Suitable for: Budget-conscious beginners
5five Bathroom Storage Rack 4-Level White

5five Bathroom Storage Rack - 4-Level, White, 100 cm

Why it suits this profile: This open rack provides extra storage without drilling and, according to the product description, can be assembled without tools in around five minutes. Ideal for renters or furnishing your first home.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The height of 100 cm, depth of 22 cm and width of 37 cm are clearly stated. This allows you to compare the available space with the product specifications beforehand.

Main benefit & advantages

Four open shelves, a plastic construction and a stated load capacity of 20 kg per shelf.

Suitable for: Shoppers looking for premium quality
JOYFURNOS adjustable white bathroom cabinet beneath the washbasin

JOYFURNOS adjustable white bathroom cabinet beneath the washbasin

Why it suits this profile: This bathroom furniture solution combines an open section for everyday essentials with a closed section for towels, toilet paper and toiletries.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The 20 x 15 cm pipe cut-out and the dimensions of 88.5 x 30 x 60 cm are stated. According to the description, the included anti-tip system must be secured to the wall.

Main benefit & advantages

MDF, two adjustable levels in the open section and a closed cabinet with an adjustable shelf.

Suitable for: Specific uses & frequent users
JOYFURNOS adjustable bathroom corner rack

JOYFURNOS Bathroom Storage Rack, adjustable 4-tier corner rack

Why it suits this profile: This floor-to-ceiling rack is designed for shower essentials in a corner. Its height can be adjusted from 85 to 305 cm, making it suitable for a range of ceiling heights.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The stated shelf load is 2 kg per level. This prevents you from unintentionally using the rack as a heavy-duty storage cabinet. According to the description, the product is not suitable for sloping floors or ceilings.

Main benefit & advantages

Four rotating levels, three hooks, a towel rail and drainage holes according to the product information.

Looking for more options?

We have compiled a complete, up-to-date list of products that fully meet these strict selection criteria and the applicable European safety regulations.

Bathroom accessories for making the most of every centimetre

Not every storage need calls for a large bathroom cabinet. A bathroom shelf measuring 58 cm wide can provide space above the washbasin, but check the maximum load capacity of 3 kg and use suitable fixings for your type of wall.

For the shower, a bathroom corner rack is useful if you do not want to drill into a clear wall. A shower organiser with a tension or telescopic pole must be positioned straight and securely. Distribute the bottles evenly across the levels.

Smaller bathroom accessories, such as a toothbrush holder or refillable soap dispenser, help keep the washbasin tidy. With glass, make sure it is placed on a stable surface; with open holders, ensure there is sufficient ventilation and that they are easy to clean.

Frequently asked questions about bathroom storage cabinets

Which bathroom storage cabinet fits in a small bathroom?

First measure the available width and depth. A narrow open rack, bathroom corner rack or wall shelf generally takes up less floor space than a closed bathroom cabinet. Choose a cabinet beneath the washbasin when the space below the sanitaryware would otherwise go unused.

How can I prevent moisture problems with a bathroom cabinet?

Do not place the cabinet in standing water and wipe away splashed moisture regularly. Check the material, finish and installation instructions. With MDF or chipboard, undamaged edges are important. Choose furniture on legs or with sufficient clearance underneath if you frequently wash the floor.

How long does a bathroom cabinet last?

Its lifespan depends on the material, ventilation, load, installation and maintenance. A cabinet that is securely fitted, not overloaded and regularly cleaned with a soft cloth will generally remain usable for longer. Also check the screws, shelf supports and any wall fixings periodically.