Storage Basket Size Calculator
A basket that is too large will not fit into your cube shelving, while one that is too small looks untidy and can slide around inside the opening. Enter your cube shelving opening size below to get a recommended basket size.
Find the right basket size for your cube unit
Enter the opening size of your cube shelving unit (a standard Kallax-style cube is 33cm).
For a smooth fit with enough clearance to slide in and out easily, look for a basket around:
32cm x 32cm
This allows about 1cm of clearance so the basket isn't too tight, while still filling the shelf neatly.
Recommended products
A few well-reviewed storage baskets to consider.
- Seagrass
- 4-Pack, Nesting, 30 x 22 x 15cm
£19.99
Pros
- Steel-reinforced frame keeps its shape better than plain wicker
- Nesting design stores flat when not in use
- Natural seagrass finish suits most living rooms and bedrooms
Cons
- Not waterproof, so unsuitable for damp bathrooms
- Cotton
- 2-Pack
£12.89
Pros
- Soft cotton rope construction is gentle on hands and floors
- Two-tone black thread detail suits modern, minimal interiors
- Set of 2 sizes for nesting or matching storage
Cons
- Holds its shape less rigidly than woven seagrass or willow
- Willow
- Large, Cloth-Lined
£16.99
Pros
- Traditional handwoven willow gives a classic, natural look
- Removable cloth lining protects contents and is washable
- Sturdy handles make it easy to carry when full
Cons
- Sold as a single basket, not a matching set
Frequently asked questions
What size basket fits a standard cube storage unit?
Most cube storage units, such as the popular Kallax-style range, have openings of around 33cm, so a basket of about 32cm x 32cm usually slides in comfortably.
Why not just buy a basket the exact same size as the opening?
A basket that is the exact same size as the opening can be too tight a fit, making it awkward to push in and pull out, especially once it is full, so a small amount of clearance makes everyday use much easier.
Will fabric baskets fit differently to rigid baskets?
Fabric or collapsible baskets have a bit more give than rigid wicker or plastic ones, so they can often fit a slightly wider size range, but it is still worth checking the stated dimensions before buying.
Can I mix basket sizes within the same shelving unit?
Yes, as long as each basket is sized correctly for its own cube opening, you can mix colours, materials and even slightly different depths within the same unit without any fit issues.
How this Calculator Works
The calculator works by multiplying the length, width, and height of your shelf unit in centimetres. This calculation yields the total volume of the shelving space in cubic centimetres (cm³). We then convert this volume from cm³ to litres – there are 1000 cubic centimetres in one litre. The result you see is the maximum volume a basket can occupy, allowing you to select a basket that fits comfortably within your shelves without excessive gaps or wasted space.
Basket Sizes and Typical Uses – A Quick Reference
| Basket Size (External Dimensions - cm) | Approximate Internal Volume (cm³) | Estimated Capacity (Litres) |
|---|---|---|
| 30 x 20 x 15 | 4500 | 4.5 |
| 40 x 30 x 20 | 9600 | 9.6 |
| 50 x 40 x 25 | 5000 | 5.0 |
| 60 x 50 x 30 | 15000 | 15.0 |
| 70 x 55 x 35 | 18625 | 18.6 |
Worked Example: Fitting Baskets into a Standard Wardrobe Shelf
Let’s say you have a wardrobe shelf measuring 70cm (length) x 55cm (width) x 35cm (height). Inputting these dimensions into the calculator gives us a maximum basket volume of approximately 18625 cm³ – that's equivalent to 18.6 litres. Considering this, you could comfortably fit a large storage basket designed for bedding or folded towels within this space.
More questions answered
What units does the calculator use?
The calculator uses centimetres (cm) for all measurements – length, width, and height. The result is displayed in litres, which is the standard unit for measuring storage volume.
Can I use this calculator if my shelf isn't perfectly rectangular?
While designed for rectangular shelves, you can still get a reasonable estimate by using the largest dimensions. If your shelf is significantly irregular, consider taking multiple measurements and averaging them for a more accurate result.
What does the 'internal volume' actually represent?
The internal volume represents the space *inside* the basket, accounting for any thickness of the basket’s walls. It’s the actual volume you’ll have available for storing items.
Should I round up or down when selecting a basket?
It's generally recommended to round *up* slightly. A basket that fits snugly is ideal, but a little extra space allows for easy loading and unloading of items without straining the basket’s structure.
What if my shelves are made of different materials (wood, metal)?
The calculator works regardless of the material your shelves are made from. The calculation remains consistent as long as you accurately measure the dimensions in centimetres.
How accurate is this calculator?
This calculator provides an *estimated* volume. Small variations in shelf dimensions or basket wall thickness will affect the final result. For precise calculations, consider using a measuring tape and manually calculating the volume yourself.
Can I use this calculator for drawers instead of shelves?
While primarily designed for shelving units, you can adapt the calculator for drawers by measuring the internal dimensions (length, width, height) of the drawer. The result will still indicate the maximum basket volume that fits.
What if my baskets are very thin-walled?
Thin-walled baskets will reduce the usable internal volume slightly. Account for this when selecting your basket; it’s wise to choose a basket with some wall thickness for durability and stability.
How does this calculator differ from using online volume calculators?
This calculator is specifically designed for cube storage units, providing a streamlined approach. Generic volume calculators might not account for the specific constraints of shelving systems.
I’ve entered my measurements but the result seems too small – what am I doing wrong?
Double-check that you're using centimetres (cm) consistently throughout the calculation. Ensure your measurements are accurate and that you haven't made any errors when entering the numbers into the calculator.