Joybuy Insights

Choosing a storage cupboard: how to find a practical piece of furniture for every room

Buying a storage cupboard seems straightforward, until you discover that it will not fit through the hallway, cannot support enough weight or opens awkwardly. Marketing images often show a tidy living room, but important details are usually found in the product specifications. Consider the depth, material, wall fixing and maximum load capacity.

The following pitfalls are common:

  • Misjudging the size: a cupboard may look compact in a photo, but with a depth of 35 to 40 cm it can take up a lot of walking space.
  • Not paying enough attention to load capacity: books, crockery and appliances can quickly weigh more than decorations.
  • Choosing a layout that does not suit how you use it: open compartments are handy for books and accessories, but they also display clutter immediately. A cupboard with doors keeps items out of sight, but requires space to operate the doors or sliding panels.
  • Incomplete assembly information: self-assembly, wall fixing and suitable wall plugs are not details to check only after delivery.

Which specifications should you check?

1. Measure more than just the width – consider walking space too

Measure the available space at three points: width, height and depth. Also take skirting boards, radiators, door handles and sockets into account. In a narrow hallway, a compact storage cupboard measuring around 30 cm deep may fit better than a wide sideboard.

Also check the space in front of the cupboard. A shoe cupboard with doors needs enough room to open them. A sideboard with sliding doors is more practical in this respect for a smaller dining room or living room, as the panels do not swing forwards.

2. Look at the material and construction

The term wooden cupboard can refer to several different materials. A cupboard may be made from solid wood, MDF, chipboard, veneer or engineered wood. This affects factors such as its weight, finish and maintenance requirements.

Look for the following in the description:

  • the material used for the shelves and back panel;
  • whether there is a back panel;
  • metal hinges, rails or legs;
  • how the cupboard is fixed to the wall;
  • the maximum load per shelf and for the furniture as a whole.

FSC certification, such as that of the 5Five bookcase, tells you something about the source of the wood-based material used. It does not automatically mean that every shelf is suitable for heavy books. Always follow the stated load limits.

3. Choose a layout suited to its purpose

An open shelving unit works well as a bookcase, plant stand or room divider. A cupboard with doors is better suited to documents, toys, crockery or items you would rather keep out of sight. A sideboard generally combines closed storage with a surface for lighting, decorations or a television.

Multi-level shoe cupboards are practical in hallways. However, check whether high-top shoes, boots and shoe boxes will fit. In a bedroom, a narrow cupboard with adjustable shelves may be more efficient than a wide piece of furniture with fixed compartments.

Three storage cupboards for different home requirements

Suitable for: Budget-conscious beginners
5Five Wood Bookcase - Multi, 100.5 x 32 x 100.5 cm

5Five Wood Bookcase - Multi, 100.5 x 32 x 100.5 cm

Why it suits this profile: With nine compartments, this bookcase offers an organised layout for books, baskets and accessories. Its depth of 32 cm is practical for a living room, home office or bedroom.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The dimensions and compartment layout are clearly stated. The safety information specifies a maximum of 3 kg per shelf and 9 kg in total; fix the bookcase to the wall using the supplied brackets.

Key benefit & highlights

Nine equal open compartments, a back panel, FSC certification and a Scandinavian-inspired basic style. According to the product information, self-assembly takes around 30 minutes with two people.

Suitable for: Buyers looking for premium quality
Atmosphera Danik Sideboard - Wood and Glass, 1-Door, 2-Drawer

Atmosphera Danik Sideboard - Wood and Glass, 1-Door, 2-Drawer

Why it suits this profile: This sideboard combines enclosed storage, two drawers and a tempered-glass door. It is ideal for anyone who wants to organise crockery and cutlery while also looking for a piece of furniture with a distinctive wood-and-metal look.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The product information states a maximum total load of 75 kg. Place heavy items at the bottom, fix the furniture to the wall and handle the glass panel with care.

Key benefit & highlights

Two drawers, two shelves according to the product specifications, and a tempered-glass sliding door. The dimensions are approximately 94 x 40 x 85 cm; check the measurements before buying.

Suitable for: Specific uses & intensive users
Tribesigns Shoe Cabinet with Doors, 5 Tiers Shoe Storage Cabinet

Tribesigns Shoe Cabinet with Doors, 5 Tiers Shoe Storage Cabinet

Why it suits this profile: According to the Tribesigns product description, this shoe cupboard has five tiers and space for approximately 22 to 25 pairs of shoes. It is designed for households with lots of footwear and limited cupboard space in the hallway.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The doors keep shoes out of sight, while the open bottom shelf provides extra flexibility. Before buying, check the actual dimensions and whether larger shoes will fit in each compartment.

Key benefit & highlights

Enclosed storage, metal legs and supplied assembly components according to the product description. The white finish suits a modern or neutral interior.

Assembly and everyday use

Before delivery, check that the packaging will fit through the front door, up the stairs or in the lift. Ideally, assemble a tall or narrow storage cupboard with two people. For a cupboard in the living room, bedroom or hallway, wall fixing is important to prevent it from tipping over. Use wall plugs and screws suitable for your type of wall; the supplied fixings are not always suitable for every Dutch home.

Distribute heavy items evenly and place books or crockery on lower shelves where possible. Clean MDF, veneer and engineered wood with a slightly damp cloth, and avoid prolonged contact with water. A cupboard with doors also requires regular checks of the hinges, rails and wall fixings.

Looking for more options?

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

Frequently asked questions about storage cupboards

How deep should a storage cupboard for the hallway be?

First measure the available passageway. A depth of around 30 to 35 cm may be suitable for a compact storage cupboard, but always check the door and walking space. For shoes, the compartments must also be deep enough for your largest pair.

Is an open shelving unit or a cupboard with doors more practical?

An open shelving unit makes books and decorations immediately accessible. A cupboard with doors is more convenient if you want to keep items out of sight and reduce visual clutter in the room. In a hallway, an enclosed shoe cupboard is often more orderly.

How long does a storage unit last?

Its lifespan depends on the material, load, assembly and maintenance. Do not exceed the stated limits, fix tall furniture to the wall and check moving parts regularly. According to the product information, the products mentioned come with at least two years’ statutory guarantee within the EU; additional statutory rights may also apply.