A storage cabinet may seem like a simple purchase, but the wrong size, a flimsy construction or an awkward layout can quickly become frustrating. A cabinet that won’t fit under the washbasin, doors that hit the wall or shelves that won’t hold bottles upright are all common problems you can avoid by planning ahead.
As a Joybuy Product Recommendation Officer, I focus on features you can check for yourself. Marketing claims mean little if the dimensions, materials and safety features aren’t right for your home and the way you’ll use the cabinet.
A white storage cabinet with gold details, a matt finish or a modern pattern might suit your interior. But style tells you nothing about how practical the layout is. Always check how much usable space there is behind the doors and inside the drawers. A cabinet with open compartments is handy for things you use often, but items left out in the open are less protected from dust.
Measure more than just the space where the cabinet will stand. Check skirting boards, pipes, washbasin pedestals, doors and the space around the furniture too. For a bathroom cabinet or under-sink cabinet, the cut-out for the trap is especially important. A difference of just a few centimetres can determine whether the cabinet will fit.
A product description may use terms such as moisture-resistant or suitable for bathrooms. According to the manufacturer’s product description, some models are designed for damp rooms, but that doesn’t mean they can withstand standing water or leaks for long periods. So don’t place a cabinet directly in a pool of water, and wipe up splashes as soon as possible.
Also check whether an anti-tip device is included. According to the assembly instructions, a tall bookcase or freestanding cabinet should be secured to the wall, especially in a household with children.
Before you buy, note down:
A cabinet with adjustable shelves is practical if you want to store both small jars and tall bottles, towels or storage boxes. An open bookcase, on the other hand, may need boxes or baskets if you want to keep smaller items out of sight.
Many models are made from MDF, chipboard or a combination of these with metal. MDF has a smooth surface that’s easy to clean. Chipboard can be practical and affordable, but its edges and joints need to be well protected from moisture.
A metal storage cabinet is generally easy to wipe down and can be suitable for an office, utility room or kitchen. If it combines steel and board, check the overall construction, finish and maximum load. The stated load capacity usually applies to each shelf, compartment or top panel, not automatically to the cabinet as a whole.
Check whether the instructions, fixings and all the parts are included. If you’re fixing the cabinet to a wall, make sure you know what type of wall you have. A plug for solid concrete won’t necessarily be suitable for plasterboard. If you rent, you may also need permission before drilling into the wall.
The product descriptions below state that an anti-tip kit is included with several models. Use it according to the instructions provided, and don’t exceed the stated load capacity.
Why it suits this need: This compact bathroom cabinet measures 30 x 88.5 x 60 cm and combines an open section with a two-door cupboard. It’s a good fit for a smaller bathroom where you want toiletries close to hand.
The cut-out for the U-shaped pipe is specified as 20 x 15 cm. Check that it will fit around your washbasin and pipes before you buy.
MDF, two adjustable shelf heights in the open section and an anti-tip device included.
Why it suits this need: This wider bathroom cabinet is designed for anyone looking for a mix of concealed storage and open shelving. Its white and metal finish with gold-coloured details also makes it suitable as a sideboard or living room storage unit.
The product description lists three adjustable shelf heights and a clearance of 12.5 cm. This helps accommodate different bottle sizes and makes the floor easier to reach when cleaning.
Two doors, three open compartments, MDF and metal components; dimensions of 35.5 x 100.5 x 75.5 cm according to the product specifications.
Why it suits this need: If you want to store towels, toiletries and cleaning products separately, this cabinet gives you three drawers, two compartments behind a door and an adjustable shelf.
The product specifications state a maximum static load of 36.2 kg and recommend securing the cabinet to the wall. You can then organise your belongings to stay within the stated limit.
Three drawers, adjustable storage space and an anti-tip kit; according to the product description, it’s suitable for washbasins with or without a pedestal.
Why it suits this need: This bookcase has ten open compartments and works well in a living room, bedroom or home office. Use it for books, plants, ornaments or storage boxes.
According to the product specifications, each compartment can hold up to 10 kg. Spreading items across the shelves helps prevent any one compartment from carrying too much weight.
Ten compartments, dimensions of 129.5 x 27 x 129.5 cm and an anti-tip kit included for wall mounting.
In a bathroom, closed doors, a smooth surface and enough clearance from the floor are important. A bathroom cabinet or under-sink cabinet also needs to fit around the pipes. In the living room, you can choose between a storage cabinet with doors for a tidy look and an open cabinet for books or ornaments.
A white finish can make a small room feel more organised, while a metal storage cabinet can be a practical choice for a home office, kitchen or utility room. If you want to use one piece of furniture in different rooms, look for a freestanding cabinet with versatile dimensions and adjustable shelves.
Always compare the product specifications, assembly instructions and maximum load before buying. Check whether the cabinet comes complete, and whether you’ll need to supply suitable tools and fixings yourself.
We’ve put together a complete, up-to-date list of products that meet these strict selection criteria and the applicable European safety requirements.
Measure the available width, depth and height. Also note the position of the trap, water pipes, skirting boards and washbasin pedestal. Compare these measurements with the cut-out and internal dimensions in the product description. Leave enough room to open the doors or drawers fully.
Its lifespan depends on the material, assembly, load and care. Keep MDF and chipboard dry, don’t lift a cabinet by its doors or drawers, and tighten the fixings after assembly as instructed. Ventilation helps in a damp room, but avoid direct contact with water.
Most models just need wiping regularly with a slightly damp cloth, then drying. Don’t use harsh cleaning products unless the manufacturer says they’re suitable. For a metal cabinet, check the edges and hinges for damage too, especially if the furniture is in a damp room.