How to Measure for Your Custom Cupboard Shelves

• How to Measure Your Cupboard for Shelves

  It’s easier than you think — and we’re here to help if you need us.

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  What you’ll need:

  • A tape measure (metal ones are best)

  • Something to note your measurements down

  • A small step stool if your cupboard is tall

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Step 1: Measure the Width (Wall to Wall)

This is your most important measurement, and should always be in millimetres (mm).

• Measure the internal width of your cupboard where the shelf will sit.

• Take three measurements – at the front, middle, and back.

• Walls are rarely perfectly straight, so don’t worry if the numbers aren’t all the same.

Now look at the difference between your three measurements:

✅ If the difference is small (1–2mm):

• Take the middle measurement

• Deduct 5mm to allow for easy installation

• That’s the number to order

Example: Front = 672mm, Middle = 670mm, Back = 668mm
→ Use 670mm – 5mm = 665mm

🛠️ If the difference is more noticeable (3mm or more):

There are two options here, depending on how you’d like your shelf to fit.

• The wooden support battens are 20mm thick, which means the shelf can rest securely even if it’s slightly narrower than one end of the cupboard.

• So, if your width measurements differ by a few mm, you can order to the smallest width and the shelf will still sit securely on the battens.

Example: Front = 670mm, Back = 675mm
→ Order to 670mm (smallest point)

• If the difference is more significant, and you’d like a shelf custom-cut to suit a slanted or uneven wall, we can help with that too.

  • In this case, order using the largest measurement

  • Then let us know the exact sizes in the personalisation box (e.g. “91.5cm at the front, 93.5cm at the back”)

  • Or just send us a message — we’re always happy to advise

Step 2: Work Out Your Shelf Depth

• Measure from the back wall to just before the front edge (or door frame).
  

• You don’t need the shelf to go the full depth — just enough to store what you need.

• If it's a very deep cupboard, consider how you would reach items at the back. 

Tip: Try placing a folded towel or basket on the floor to test what depth works for you.

Step 3: Decide How Many Shelves You Need

Because our shelves simply sit on battens, you can choose the spacing that suits you.

• Think about what you’ll be storing.

• We recommend leaving at least 300mm between shelves, and more for larger items like bedding or boxes.

• Mark the shelf heights on your cupboard walls with a pencil or masking tape to visualise the layout.

What About Fixings?

Our shelves are designed to sit on wooden battens (support strips on either side of the cupboard). We include pre-cut battens and screws, with a simple guide to get them installed.

Need help? Just ask.

If you’re unsure about your measurements or setup, send us a photo of your cupboard or your measurements — we’re always happy to help.