Joybuy Insights

Choosing a storage cupboard: avoid costly mistakes and make the most of every centimetre

A storage cupboard needs to do more than look tidy. In a small bathroom, hallway or bedroom, its dimensions, stability and layout all affect how easy it is to use every day. Yet many people buy based on a photo or a vague description. The cupboard may turn out to be too deep for the space, too lightweight for heavy items or less suitable for a damp room than expected.

When comparing cupboards, look out for these three common pitfalls:

  • Dimensions without practical clearance: a cupboard that’s 30 cm deep may fit on paper, but doors, skirting boards and towels need space too.
  • An attractive material description without clear construction details: “bamboo” may refer only to the doors or certain parts, while the shelves and back panel are made from MDF, chipboard or another material.
  • Confusing storage space with load capacity: having lots of shelves doesn’t automatically mean you can store heavy bottles, supplies or books on them.

Read on to find out which specifications to check and which layouts suit different households.

What should you look for in a storage cupboard?

1. Measure the width, depth and height in the right places

Don’t just measure the available wall space. Also check:

  1. the available width between the wall, sink or door;
  2. the maximum depth, including handles and doors;
  3. the height up to the skirting board, ceiling or any pipes;
  4. the space needed to open a door or cupboard compartment fully.

A tall, narrow cupboard makes good use of vertical space while taking up little floor space. That’s handy in a small bathroom or hallway, but tall cupboards often have a higher centre of gravity. Check whether you can secure it to the wall. With a bathroom rack or open shelving unit, it’s also important to make sure items won’t easily fall off the shelves.

2. Check the material and the individual components

Bamboo is often chosen for its warm appearance. However, check which parts are actually made of bamboo. With furniture made from a combination of materials, the vertical supports, back panel or shelves may be made from chipboard or MDF. That’s not necessarily a problem, but it does affect how suitable the cupboard is for a damp room.

According to 5Five’s product description, the Bamboo Bathroom Rack is designed for use in a bathroom or utility room and is highly resistant to moisture and water. Treat this as product information, not a guarantee that it will suit every situation: prolonged contact with water, poor ventilation and wet edges can still put a strain on materials. Wipe up spills and don’t place the cupboard directly in a puddle or against a wall that’s constantly damp.

In a living room, bedroom or storage room, a wooden shelving unit is usually exposed to less moisture. A cupboard with doors keeps loose items out of sight, while open shelving makes it easier to reach towels, baskets or toiletries.

3. Check the load capacity and assembly requirements

A stated maximum load is only useful if you know how the weight should be distributed. Put heavier items on lower shelves and spread the weight across them. A cupboard with a maximum total load of 60 kg isn’t automatically designed to hold 60 kg on a single shelf.

Also check:

  • assembly time and number of people: some models take around 30 to 60 minutes to assemble and require two people;
  • anti-tip fittings: secure a tall or narrow cupboard to the wall using the fixings supplied or suitable fittings for your type of wall;
  • floor surface: position the cupboard so it’s level, then check that all screws and joints are secure after assembly;
  • care: clean bamboo and MDF with a soft, slightly damp cloth, then dry the surface.

Choosing a storage cupboard for your needs

Suitable for: Budget-conscious first-time buyers
5five Bamboo Shelf Unit - 4-Tier, Light Brown, 25 x 16 x 88 cm

5five Bamboo Shelf Unit - 4-Tier, Light Brown, 25 x 16 x 88 cm

Why it suits this profile: This compact open unit fits into a narrow alcove and offers four tiers for shampoo, soap, towels or small supplies.

How this product avoids the pitfall

Its dimensions of 25 x 16 x 88 cm make it easy to check whether it will fit before you buy. The stated maximum load is 4 kg, so it’s clear that this model is designed for lightweight items.

Key benefit & features

Four shelves, a bamboo frame, a light brown design and self-assembly.

Suitable for: Buyers looking for premium quality
5five Sicela Bamboo Storage Unit - Brown, 34 x 24 x 170 cm

5five Sicela Bamboo Storage Unit - Brown, 34 x 24 x 170 cm

Why it suits this profile: If you need plenty of bathroom storage but don’t want a wide cupboard, this tall cabinet offers six shelves and two doors.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The product information gives its dimensions as 34 x 24 x 170 cm and its maximum load as 30 kg. Its tall, narrow design does need to be permanently secured to the wall, with weight distributed evenly.

Key benefit & features

Six shelves, two doors, bamboo door panels and assembly by two people.

Suitable for: Specific needs & frequent use
5five Oak Mix Shelf Unit with Doors - 6 Compartments, 67.5 x 32 x 100.5 cm

5five Oak Mix Shelf Unit with Doors - 6 Compartments, 67.5 x 32 x 100.5 cm

Why it suits this profile: This shelving unit is a good choice if you need wide, enclosed storage for supplies, documents, toys or household items in a dry indoor space.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The description specifies indoor use, six compartments and a maximum load of 90 kg. That gives you a clearer idea of the layout than a vague claim of “plenty of storage space”.

Key benefit & features

Dimensions of 67.5 x 32 x 100.5 cm, six doors/compartments and an FSC statement in the product information.

Suitable for: Flexible clothing and laundry storage
5five Dika Double Hanging Rail and Shelving Unit - Natural, 118 x 39.5 x 180 cm

5five Dika Double Hanging Rail and Shelving Unit - Natural, 118 x 39.5 x 180 cm

Why it suits this profile: The combination of two clothes rails and shelves works well in a bedroom, utility room or open wardrobe, giving you space to hang and fold clothes.

How this product avoids the pitfall

Its dimensions of 118 x 39.5 x 180 cm make it clear that this isn’t a small bathroom cupboard. The anti-tip straps supplied and even weight distribution are essential for safe use.

Key benefit & features

Two clothes rails, several shelves, steel support bars and an FSC statement in the product details.

Looking for more options?

We’ve put together a full, up-to-date list of products that meet these strict selection criteria and the applicable European safety regulations.

Frequently asked questions about storage cupboards

Which storage cupboard is suitable for a small bathroom?

A tall, narrow cupboard or compact bathroom cupboard takes up little floor space. Measure the depth first, allowing for doors, skirting boards and ventilation. Choose an open bathroom rack if you want to reach your things quickly. For a tidier look, a cupboard with doors is more practical, but check that the doors can open fully.

How can I stop a tall cupboard from tipping over?

Place the cupboard on a level surface, spread heavier items across the lower shelves and always use the anti-tip fittings supplied. Securing a tall or narrow cupboard to the wall is especially important for models measuring 170 or 180 cm. Use fixings that are suitable for your type of wall.

How long will a wooden or bamboo storage cupboard last?

Its lifespan depends on assembly, load, ventilation and care. Don’t leave a wooden or bamboo cupboard standing in water for long, and dry wet surfaces straight away. Check the screws and joints regularly. According to the product information, the models mentioned come with a minimum two-year statutory guarantee; this is not the same as a guaranteed lifespan.