A storage cabinet may seem easy to choose until you have to work out how much space you really need, which material is suitable and whether the cabinet will remain stable. A low chest of drawers, for example, can work well in a bedroom, while a metal storage cabinet may be more practical for tools or documents.
Look out for these common pitfalls before you order:
Measure the spot where you plan to put the storage cabinet in three directions: width, height and depth. Allow for:
A shoe cabinet with doors may suit a hallway, but only if the doors won’t hit a wall or radiator. For documents, a filing cabinet with adjustable shelves is often more practical than an open shelving unit. A bedroom or clothes cabinet also needs enough shelf height for clothes, boxes and accessories.
Chipboard and MDF are commonly used for living room cabinets, bedroom cabinets and drawer units. They’re generally suitable for normal indoor use, but prolonged exposure to moisture can affect the edges and joints. If you’re buying a bathroom cabinet, check that the product description says it’s suitable for that environment, and keep water away from the furniture as much as possible.
Metal is practical if you’re looking for a garage cabinet, metal storage cabinet or tool cabinet. Check the thickness of the steel, whether the shelves are adjustable, the maximum load and whether anti-tip fittings are included. A lock can help keep items secure, but it doesn’t replace safe storage for hazardous substances.
Plastic is lightweight and easy to clean. A mobile plastic cabinet can be useful for toys, linen or household items. Check the maximum load per shelf and lock the wheels before using the cabinet.
Don’t just look at the total load capacity; check the limit for each shelf, drawer or compartment too. Heavy files, tools and printers place greater demands on a storage unit than clothes or towels.
Also check:
The product listing is the most important source of information. Claims by brands about ease of use or durability should be treated as information from the seller, not as a guaranteed result in every home.
Why it suits this profile: This compact cabinet, measuring 73 x 48 x 78 cm, has three drawers for clothes, accessories or household items. It’s designed for indoor use and, according to the product information, can be assembled by one person in around 30 minutes.
The fixed dimensions and stated maximum load of 80 kg make it easier to check in advance whether the cabinet will suit your space and needs.
Three drawers, steel fittings and drawer runners, a product weight of 23.45 kg and a stated statutory guarantee of at least two years.
Why it suits this profile: This steel cabinet, measuring 40 x 60 x 90 cm, is designed for tools, documents and other items for the office, kitchen or garage. The shelves are adjustable and the cabinet has a lock with keys.
The product information gives separate load limits: 30 kg for the top and 25 kg per adjustable shelf. This helps prevent a single overall weight limit from being misinterpreted.
Steel construction, lockable doors, adjustable feet and an anti-tip kit included.
Why it suits this profile: Measuring approximately 40.5 x 40.5 x 65.5 cm, this cabinet is designed for documents, drawings, tools and office supplies. Its swivel castors make it easy to move between your desk, workbench or studio.
The description states a maximum total load of 50 kg and says the front wheels can be locked. Lock the wheels before opening drawers or placing heavy items on the cabinet.
Five drawers, 360-degree swivel castors, two lockable front wheels and a top surface for small equipment.
Why it suits this profile: This storage cabinet with doors is suitable for clothes, bed linen, toys and household items. It folds away, has four levels and can be moved between rooms on its four wheels.
The specifications state a folded depth of 3.5 inch and two wheels with brakes. Check the permitted weight for each level and apply the brakes when the cabinet is stationary.
Tool-free assembly, double magnetic doors, top access and four universal wheels.
We’ve put together a complete, up-to-date list of products that meet these strict selection criteria and the applicable European safety regulations.
Follow the assembly instructions and use the anti-tip fittings provided where specified. Store heavier items at the bottom and check that the floor is level. Wall fixing is especially important for a tall clothes cabinet, metal cabinet or chest of drawers, particularly in a home with children.
Its lifespan depends on the material, load, moisture and how often the doors or drawers are used. A cabinet used within its stated load capacity and kept dry is generally less likely to sag or become damaged. Check the screws, drawer runners and wheels regularly.
A standard storage cabinet, chest of drawers, shoe cabinet or filing cabinet doesn’t use electricity. Only models with extra features, such as lighting in a jewellery cabinet, may need batteries. If so, check which type of battery is used and remove it if the product won’t be used for a long time.