Storage cubes are one of the most popular and versatile home organization tools out there. Whether you’re trying to declutter your living room, tidy up a kid’s play area, or maximize space in a dorm room or office, storage cubes can do the job stylishly and efficiently.
But here’s the catch: not all storage cubes are the same size. Some fit perfectly in cube organizers, while others are too big or too small, making them frustrating to use.
Storage Cubes Guide Sizes and Dimensions10 to 12 inches. A common size is 10.5 x 10.5 x 11 inches. They’re perfect for organizing shelves, closets, or fitting into cube shelving units to keep things neat and tidy.”
In this guide, we’ll break down the most common storage cube sizes and dimensions, what they’re best used for, and how to make sure you’re picking the right ones for your space.
What Are Storage Cubes?
Storage cubes are square-shaped bins or containers designed to hold various household items. They can be made of fabric, plastic, wood, or metal, and are often used with cube shelving units or modular storage systems.
Common uses include:
- Storing toys, books, and clothes
- Organizing office supplies
- Decluttering entryways, closets, and laundry rooms
Storage cubes come in a variety of sizes, shapes, and styles, making them a flexible option for almost any storage need.
Standard Storage Cube Sizes (And What They Hold Best)
1. Small Storage Cubes
- Typical Size: 10” x 10” x 10” (25.4 x 25.4 x 25.4 cm)
- Best For: Small toys, socks, makeup, craft supplies
- Use Case: Fits in smaller shelves or desks with limited space
2. Medium Storage Cubes
- Typical Size: 11” x 11” x 11” (28 x 28 x 28 cm)
- Best For: Books, shoes, baby items, kitchen towels
- Use Case: Fits most cube organizers like IKEA KALLAX or Target’s Threshold units
3. Large Storage Cubes
- Typical Size: 13” x 13” x 13” (33 x 33 x 33 cm)
- Best For: Sweaters, winter gear, bags, bulkier items
- Use Case: Great for living rooms, closets, or when you need maximum space
4. Extra-Large Storage Cubes
- Typical Size: 16” x 16” x 16” or bigger
- Best For: Blankets, bedding, seasonal clothing, sports equipment
- Use Case: Best suited for closets or under-bed storage
📝 Note: Always measure your shelf openings before buying storage cubes to avoid size mismatches.
How to Measure Storage Cubes Correctly
Before you shop, make sure you measure both the space and the cube bins. Here’s how:
- Measure the inside width, height, and depth of your cube shelf.
- Leave 0.5 to 1 inch of clearance on all sides for easy pull-out access.
- Check product labels—some include outside measurements including handles or lids.
📏 Example: If your shelf opening is 13” wide and tall, a 12” cube is the best fit.
Materials and Build Quality: What to Expect
Storage cubes come in various materials, each with pros and cons:
| Material | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| Fabric (Canvas/Polyester) | Lightweight, foldable, affordable | May sag over time |
| Plastic | Easy to clean, durable | Less flexible in shape |
| Wood or MDF | Stylish and sturdy | Heavier, more expensive |
| Metal Wire | Industrial look, breathable | Not ideal for small or soft items |
With or Without Lids? Choosing the Right Style
Open-Top Storage Cubes
- Easier to grab items quickly
- Ideal for frequently used items
Lidded Storage Cubes
- Keeps dust out
- Great for seasonal or long-term storage
Choose what works for your lifestyle. For example, an open bin might be better for kids’ toys, while lidded cubes are better for storing winter gear.
How Many Storage Cubes Fit in Common Organizers?
Here’s a quick guide for popular shelving systems:
| Organizer | Cube Size | Cubes It Holds |
|---|---|---|
| IKEA KALLAX 8-Cube Unit | 13″x13″ | 8 cubes |
| Target Threshold 6-Cube Organizer | 11″x11″ | 6 cubes |
| Walmart Better Homes & Gardens Organizer | 13″x13″ | 4, 6, or 9 cubes depending on unit size |
🧠 Tip: Some shelves look like they hold more cubes than they actually do. Always count and measure!
Common Questions About Storage Cube Sizes
Can I use any cube in any organizer?
- Not always. You’ll need to match the cube’s size to the shelf’s dimensions.
What size is best for toys?
- Medium or large cubes (11”–13”) are ideal for toy storage.
Are storage cubes stackable?
- Some hard-sided cubes are stackable. Fabric cubes usually aren’t unless they have reinforced sides and lids.
Do storage cubes fit in closets?
- Yes! Many people use them on closet shelves or as drawer alternatives.
Real-Life Example: Decluttering with Storage Cubes
Case Study: Emma, a mom of three, used 13” fabric storage cubes in an IKEA KALLAX unit to organize her kids’ toys, puzzles, and books. By labeling each bin and giving every item a home, she reduced daily mess and taught her kids to clean up after themselves.
✅ Result: Cleaner living space and less stress.
Recommended Visuals for This Article
Consider adding:
- A comparison chart showing storage cube sizes
- A photo of labeled cubes in a cube shelf
- An infographic of storage cube dimensions vs shelf size
Alt Text Suggestions:
- “Fabric storage cubes organized in an 8-cube shelving unit.”
- “Size comparison chart of small, medium, and large storage cubes.”
- “Diagram showing how to measure cube shelf openings.”
Conclusion
Choosing the right storage cube sizes and dimensions can make a big difference in how organized and efficient your space feels. From small bins for craft supplies to over sized cubes for winter blankets, there’s a perfect fit for every purpose.
Remember to measure your shelves, match cube sizes properly, and pick materials that suit your style and needs. A little planning goes a long way toward creating a tidy, stress-free space.