Storage cabinets are furniture items that provide a hidden or protected space for items that are not usually needed on a day to day basis. A storage cabinet can be found in almost any environment, including office spaces, kitchens, closets, and even built in to common furniture pieces, like credenzas and shelf cubbies. These allow contents to either be hidden from view behind operable doors or be open faced and easily accessible. With the ability to store important documents or loose materials, most workplaces offer employees shared office storage cabinets to keep visible surfaces like desks cleverly clean and clutter free.
Storage cabinets, often used in offices, have been organizational cornerstones for centuries. Originally, wooden cupboards held books and important manuscripts. As industrialization took hold in the 19th and 20th centuries, workplaces demanded better organization for increasing volumes of documents and supplies. This led to the development of specialized office cabinets with tailored compartments and shelves. Metal and other durable materials soon replaced wood for longevity and security. These cabinets, essential in many workplaces, evolved to promote efficiency, order, and ease of access.
The future of storage cabinets embraces versatility and design-forward thinking. As workspaces become hybrid and homes double as offices, cabinets will prioritize modularity, letting users customize according to needs. Brands like Steelcase showcase cabinets with adjustable layouts and built-in tech features. Eco-friendly materials, reflecting the sustainability trend, will gain traction. Aesthetic appeal merges with utility, offering options that complement home décor. Integrated smart technology, like touch-open doors or internal lighting, will enhance user experience. As offices redefine themselves, these cabinets will facilitate smooth transitions, balancing work efficiency and style.
There are many ways of organizing and sorting items within a storage cabinet which include: using a color-coded filing system, grouping like items, using a magazine file, or placing supplies in varying drawers and baskets. All of these methods will keep the storage cabinet looking clean and objects out of sight but within reach.
Storage cabinets vary in size depending on its use or whether they are custom built, but will typically range from 16 inches (40.6cm) to 24 inches (60.96cm) in depth.
Flammable, oxidizing, and explosive chemicals that include liquids, gases, and solids should be stored in a flammable storage cabinet. Examples of these combustible substances include: acetone, petrol, paint thinners, and old film. It is important to note there are nine classes to separate dangerous goods with Class 3 being approved for storage in a flammable storage cabinet.