Why Are Airing Cupboard Shelves Slatted?
Have ever wondered why airing cupboard shelves aren’t solid but slatted? Is it just a design choice? Or is there a reason so many airing cupboards come with slatted shelving?
At Apex, we design made-to-measure shelves — and slatted shelves are one of our most requested styles. Here’s why:
1. Airflow Is Everything
The main purpose of an airing cupboard is in the name: airing. These cupboards often house a hot water tank or boiler, which gives off gentle warmth. Slatted shelves allow that warm air to circulate more freely throughout the cupboard, helping towels, bedding, and clothes dry out faster and stay fresh.
Solid shelves block that movement, but slats let the warm air pass through — also helps prevent musty smells!
2. Better for Drying Items
Even if you don’t use your airing cupboard to dry laundry, it’s often where we store just-washed towels or bed linen. Slatted shelves mean there’s less contact with the surface, so fabrics dry faster and stay in better condition.
3. They Prevent Heat Build-Up
Boilers and hot water tanks can get quite warm, especially when running a bath or heating the house. Slatted shelves help prevent excess heat building up by allowing better ventilation around the tank — which is both safer and better for your home’s energy efficiency.
4. They Look Great
Let’s not forget — they also look good! Slatted shelves have a timeless, functional style that fits right in with the practical nature of airing cupboards.
Bonus: Slatted or Solid — You Choose
While slatted shelves are great for airflow, they’re not the only option. Many of our customers mix and match, using solid shelves at the top for stacking linen, and slatted shelves lower down to help towels and clothes air out.
We offer both styles — custom-made to your exact measurements, so you can choose what suits your needs best.
Need help deciding?
Check out our Measuring Guide or get in touch with us. We’re happy to help you plan the perfect set-up for your airing cupboard.