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Cube Shelves 101: Why You Should Consider These Boxy Wonders
Look, I get it.. clutter seems to accumulate fast and effortlessly 
Finding effective solutions to organize our living spaces has become a priority for many.
Cube storage shelves (also known as ‘cube storage organizers’) have emerged as a versatile, easy, cheap, and practical option, offering not only functionality but also an aesthetic appeal that complements any home.
These organizers consist of a series of compartments, providing an ideal canvas to store and showcase various items, from collectible memorabilia and decorations to toys and clothing.
In this article, we're diving deep into the world of cube storage shelves to help you find the best one for your needs.
Because there’s a HECK of a lot of options out there.
I’ve got you covered with a researched and handpicked list of the best cube storage shelves available right now.
Plus, to make sure you're making a well-informed decision, I’ll walk you through the key factors to consider when choosing your ideal shelf, like size, material, assembly process, design, and storage capacity.
And like Billy Mays would say, “But wait, there's more!”
I’ll also share some additional tips and tricks to get the most out of them, go over some common accessories, and I’ll share a few cleaning/maintenance tips.
So enough hype, let’s get started!
"But, I don't have time to read this entire awesome article right now..."
No problem! Click here to jump to the recommendations below.
The 3 Main Types of Cube Storage Shelves
1.) Fixed
Fixed cube storage shelves are the classic and most common choice.
They’re in a fixed, non-adjustable layout and are available in a wide variety of sizes. These shelves offer a uniform and neat look.
Assembly is pretty straightforward and quick. But the smaller ones sometimes come pre-built out of the box.
2.) Customizable (Adjustable)
Customizable cube storage shelves give you the freedom to design your storage system in many ways to fit your specific needs.
The compartments come in separate pieces, allowing you to mix and match different cube sizes and configurations. This flexibility can be perfect for those who like the ability to change their storage as their needs evolve. However, these shelves can require a bit more assembly than Fixed shelves so it may take a bit more time and effort to set up.
But the extra effort might be worth it for you if you need this versatility.
One downside though, is that they’re usually not as stable and solid as the Fixed shelves; Many of them are made of plastic while also having thin shelves. This isn’t a problem though, unless you’re storing heavier items.
3.) Wall-Mounted
For those who want to save floor space and add a touch of creativity to their home’s walls, wall-mounted cube storage shelves are a great option.
These shelves can be installed at any height, making them ideal for displaying all sorts of items or creating a focal point in your living area. They come in various materials, styles, and colors, allowing you to choose the perfect design that complements your home. Just keep in mind that in order to install these shelves you'll need basic tools and hardware, as well as knowledge of how to mount things securely on the wall.
In this article, we'll mainly be discussing 'fixed' and ‘customizable’ style storage shelves.
(I’ll write separate articles soon for Wall-Mounted options. A link will be posted when the article is live 
.)
“But aren’t they the same thing as ‘bookcases’ or ‘bookshelves'??”
Ah, a very fair observation...
While cube organizer shelves and bookshelves look extremely similar and sometimes, they're just lumped together in the SAME category, I've found them to be slightly different.
Bookshelves/bookcases have wider, more rectangle-shaped shelves. While cube organizer shelves are more evenly square-like.
I also didn’t consider them to be cube shelves if they were exclusively being titled & marketed as “bookcases” or “bookshelves”.
This is how I've personally distinguished between the two.
And through this lens is how I've researched, selected, and defined the recommended products for this article.
Even though some folks out there may not agree, I believe these criteria to be 'good enough' distinctions to keep things simple and clear 
.
So now with this clarification out of the way, let's take a look at the product selections!
Best Cube Storage Shelves Overall
Best Cube Storage Shelves with Doors
These versatile units combine the convenience of open shelves and the added privacy of hinged doors, perfect for neatly concealing certain items while openly displaying others.
It’s worth noting that a lot of the options for this criteria are the ‘customizable/adjustable’ type (but that’s not necessarily a bad thing).
Also, it’s disappointing to see that Wayfair only had 1 good available option. All the others I saw on there had low reviews and were too overpriced (in my opinion).
Best Solid Wood Only Cube Storage Shelves
It’s surprisingly challenging to find cube shelves made of just solid wood (since most of them are made of MDF) - but I still found a few that stood out above others.
These have a heftier price tag though, so keep that in mind.
Compared to others though there were the most reasonably priced that I found.
Best Cube Shelves for Small Spaces
If you’re looking to be as efficient as possible with your free space, then these cube shelves will do great.
They’re not too tall, nor too wide. Plus, each one looks to be of good build quality.
Best Budget Options (All under *$30!)
(*At the time of this writing.)
If you’re looking to save some money and just need a few choices that will get the job done, then here you go!
These are not only inexpensive but also offer more compartments in total for the price.
Best Cube Storage Shelves for a Playroom
Obviously, all of the other recommended products would also work well for a kid’s playroom.
But maybe you’re looking for something else more ‘playful’ looking. If that’s the case, here are 3 good options that can add that splash of fun to your little one’s room:
BONUS: Best Cube Shelves from IKEA
Just for fun, I thought I’d include some cube shelves from IKEA.
Their furniture looks great, is pretty good quality, and has a reasonable price tag. Here are some solid recommendations that they offer:
What to Look for When Choosing Cube Storage Shelves
It’s always a good idea to have some criteria in mind when shopping for anything home related, and these shelves are no different.
Below are 6 things to consider when buying cube storage shelves. These will hopefully narrow down your selections even further, and maybe even bring up a few things you didn’t think about.
1.) Size and Dimensions
First, consider the available space in your room.
Measure the area where you plan to install the shelves to ensure a perfect fit. Choose a shelf size that complements the room's layout and provides enough storage space for your belongings.
2.) Material
Secondly, these shelves can be made from various materials including:
- Wood (most common)
- Wooden shelves are strong, and sturdy, and come in a lot of different styles, but they may be a bit expensive and heavy-ish. It’s also worth noting that the majority of “wood” cube shelves will be MDF (decently good) and not actual ‘solid’ wood (better). I’ve made sure to specify this difference for each recommendation listed above
.
- Wooden shelves are strong, and sturdy, and come in a lot of different styles, but they may be a bit expensive and heavy-ish. It’s also worth noting that the majority of “wood” cube shelves will be MDF (decently good) and not actual ‘solid’ wood (better). I’ve made sure to specify this difference for each recommendation listed above
- Metal
- Metal shelves are solid and sleek, yet still affordable. Although, most of these will be customizable wire-type shelves - Which, may have gaps where small things can fall through. I wasn’t too convinced about these which is why I didn’t recommend them here.
- and Plastic
- Plastic shelves are lightweight, cost-effective, and pretty strong too - but not as solid as wooden shelves. They are, however, resistant to water spills and moisture.
Any one of these materials can work great, but it’s something to think about if you have a specific preference.
(i.e., Maybe you want all your furniture to be wood; Or maybe you need something water resistant, so you opt for metal & plastic material.)
3.) Ease of Assembly
Next, consider how easy the shelves are to assemble.
Some models may require tools, while others are quick to put together with no extra equipment needed. If needed, look at the item’s listing or at user reviews to get an idea of how other people found the assembly process.
Although, most of the ones that require tools and other hardware are wall-mounted cube shelves. And since those aren’t the focus of this article, you won’t have to worry about that! It’s just worth being aware of.
4.) Looks/Design
Fourth, the design and color of your cube storage shelves should match your home decor and personal preference.
There are various styles and finishes available, from rustic wood to wire metal designs. Coordinate the shelves with your room's ambiance and other furniture to create a cohesive look.
Unless they’re for an area where hardly anyone will see them, then in that case… who really cares? 
5.) Storage capacity
Think about the amount of storage you require and the size of the items you plan to store.
Cube shelves vary in storage capacity, with some offering more total number of available slots than others.
You think you may need 8 total slots but maybe you need 10 instead?
Or maybe you need the compartments to be bigger/taller?
Go with one that can accommodate all the things you're planning on storing.
6.) Price and value for the money
Last, but not least, keep your budget in mind.
Compare prices, features, sizes, and materials to find the best bang for your buck.
Remember that just looking for the cheapest price isn't only deciding factor. A well-designed and durable product might be more expensive upfront but may save you money in the long run!
With the help of this article though, you’ll be getting great value for your money regardless of the selection. 
Common Accessories and Maximizing Cube Shelves
In this section, we'll explore some different accessories and additional tips for maximizing your cube storage shelves.
You’ll be able to supercharge shelves’ functionality, increase organization, and even enhance their overall look.
Storage Bins for Cube Shelves
Storage cube bins are a great way to keep your items organized and maximize space. You can easily slide them in and out of the cube shelves, and they come in various sizes and colors to fit your style and needs.
I wrote an article about some of the best cube organizers that you can check out.
Cubbies and Dividers
Shelf dividers can help you separate items within a shelf and prevent them from getting mixed up. You can use dividers made of plastic, wood, or even cardboard to create sections within the cube that can organize items like video games, toys, or decorative pieces.
Doors and Panels
Cube storage units can be customized with doors or decorative panels to conceal the contents and create a neater appearance. Although, generally these would be more of a custom DIY project (unless your cube shelves came with doors out of the box).
Label Holders and Tags
Label holders and tags can be attached to the front of each cube compartment or storage bin to indicate the contents, making it easier to find and access items quickly. This is very useful in an office-like environment where organization matters more.
Bookends
Bookends are simple products that help keep items like books or binders upright and organized. There's a large variety of them but they'll all get the job done.
LED Lights
LED light strips or touch-sensitive LED lights can be installed inside the cube compartments to provide better visibility, especially for units with closed backs or doors. This is another one of those DIY ideas, but it's pretty easy for anyone to do!
You can use battery-operated LED lights or even string lights to choose whatever color(s) you like and create a cool-looking ambiance.
Maintenance and Care Tips
If you want to make something last, you gotta show it some love!
Here are some maintenance and care tips to keep your cube storage shelves looking their best:
- Dust regularly: Dust can accumulate on your cube shelves, making them look dirty and dull and attracting pests and allergens. To keep them looking great, dust them regularly with a soft cloth or a feather duster. I personally really like using the Swiffer Duster.
- Clean spills immediately: This one’s pretty obvious but if you spill something on your cube shelves, clean it up immediately to prevent it from staining or damaging the surface. Use a lightly damp cloth to wipe up the spill, and then dry the surface with a clean microfiber cloth.
- Avoid harsh chemicals: Harsh cleaning chemicals can damage the surface of your cube shelves, so avoid using them. Instead, use a mild cleaner (or even just a bit of water) and a soft microfiber cloth to clean the surface.
- Don't overload the shelves: Cube shelves are designed to hold a certain amount of weight, so don't overload them. If you put too much weight on the shelves, they could crack, break or sag.
- Use furniture pads: If you have cube shelves on a hardwood or tile floor, use furniture pads to prevent them from scratching or damaging the floor.
- Protect from Moisture and Humidity: Moisture and humidity can cause wooden cube storage shelves to warp or develop mold and mildew. Avoid placing them in areas prone to high humidity, such as bathrooms or basements. Use coasters or protective mats under items that may leave moisture rings or stains to prevent damage to the shelves' surface.
- Protect from the Sun’s Rays: Prolonged exposure to direct sunlight can cause discoloration and fading of the shelves' finish, especially for wooden shelves or those with a painted surface. Position your cube storage shelves away from windows or use curtains and blinds to shield them from intense sunlight.
Conclusion & Final Thoughts (TL;DR)
You made it to the end! 
So, in conclusion, cube storage shelves are a quick, versatile, and practical storage solution that can help you keep your home organized and add a bit of eye candy to your interior.
Whether you're looking to store books, toys, or clothing, there are cube shelves out there that will fit your needs.
Some of the best cube storage shelves on the market today offer a variety of features, such as different color combinations, adjustable shelves, doors, and more, that can help you create a custom storage solution that fits your style and needs.
By considering factors such as size, material, and design, you can narrow down your selections and find that perfect cube storage shelf for your home. With a little bit of creativity and organization, cube storage shelves can transform your space and make your life a tiny bit easier.
I’m personally a fan of these 4:
- ZenStyle 9 Cube Storage Shelf Organizer
- ClosetMaid 1290 Cubeicals Organizer
- Whitmor 3 Cube Organizer
- KALLAX
But, again, taste is subjective so pick what speaks to you the most .
Which one is your favorite? Have any recommendations that I should add here too?
Let me know down below!
Now that you have some cube shelves, maybe now you’d like to see the best storage cubes?
Or what about organizing your outdoor space with some outdoor storage boxes?
I’ll see you in the next one.
Take care!
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: "Are cube storage shelves worth it?"
A: Yes, I’d say so!
They’re fairly inexpensive, practical, and a quick way to add some stylish storage space to any room.
However, they may not be so worth it if you have limited space in your living area or you need to store very heavy items.
Q: "What is the ideal material for durable cube storage shelves?"
Solid wood and Metal would be best if durability was your main concern. And MDF would be the least durable of the bunch.
But pretty much all materials would hold up well since (hopefully) you won’t be abusing the shelves or throwing them around.
Q: "How can I enhance the appearance of my cube storage shelves?"
You have a few options, here are some ideas you might like:
- Paint or Stain: Consider painting them in a color that you like more. Alternatively, if you have solid wood, you can stain them to bring out the natural beauty of the wood.
- Wallpaper or Contact Paper: Apply wallpaper or adhesive contact paper to the back panel of each cube or to the outside of the shelves to add patterns, texture, or a pop of color.
- Decorative Bins and Baskets: Use decorative bins and baskets that fit inside the cubes to organize your belongings. Opt for stylish designs and colors that match your room's theme. This not only keeps your items organized but also adds some visual appeal.
- Decorative Backing: If your cube storage shelves have an open back, consider adding decorative backing. You can use fabric, wallpaper, or even patterned wrapping paper to create a backdrop that adds some flair to the shelves.
- Decorative Knobs and Handles: Upgrade the knobs or handles on the cube doors, if applicable. Choose decorative or unique knobs that give the shelves a custom look.
- Lighting: As mentioned before, adding LED strip lights can really make the shelves stand out. Lighting can make your cube storage shelves look more inviting and can highlight your displayed items.
- Add a Tabletop Shelf: A tabletop shelf provides extra display and storage space. It also helps with separating miscellaneous items.
Q: "How can cube storage be used effectively for clothes?"
You can effectively organize clothes in cube shelves by folding them neatly, using fabric bins for categorization and seasonal rotation, employing drawers for smaller items, arranging clothes by color, and storing off-season clothes with vacuum-sealed bags.
Q: "How much weight can cube shelves typically hold?"
The weight capacity can vary depending on the material they are made of and the specific design of the shelf.
Generally, cube shelves made of MDF can hold between 20 and ~40 pounds per cube (safely); While solid wood can hold around 40 to ~50+ pounds (safely). You can get a better idea by double-checking the item listing or the manufacturer’s instructions.
Q: "Is it safe to stack cube organizers?"
Stacking cube organizers is generally safe as long as you follow some basic guidelines.
First, make sure that the cube organizers are designed to be stacked and that they have the necessary hardware to secure them together. Some cube organizers come with brackets or other hardware that allows you to stack them securely. If your cube organizers didn’t come with hardware, you can purchase brackets or other connectors to secure them together.
Again, make sure that the overall frame that’ll go at the bottom can safely support the weight of more shelves going on top.
And second, make sure that the stack of organizers is placed on a stable surface. If the surface is uneven or wobbly, the shelves may become unstable and fall over.