Board games are great. But storing them? That’s a whole different game. I used to stack mine precariously in a closet, which resulted in more than one avalanche when I was just trying to grab a sweater. Finding the right shelf can change everything, turning chaos into organized fun. So, if you’re tired of Tetris-ing your Ticket to Ride boxes, let’s look at some of the best shelves out there for your board game collection.
Product Overview / Quick Summary
- Kallax Shelf Unit (IKEA): A popular, customizable cube storage option.
- Atlantic Oskar Adjustable Media Cabinet: Designed for media, but works well for games.
- Whalen Industrial Storage Rack: Heavy-duty shelving for serious collectors.
- Prepac Wall Storage Cabinet: Space-saving wall-mounted option.
- Amazon Basics 5-Shelf Adjustable Storage Shelving Unit: Simple, budget-friendly storage.
Top 5 Best Shelves For Board Games
Kallax Shelf Unit (IKEA)
The IKEA Kallax is practically synonymous with board game storage. Its cube design fits most standard game boxes perfectly, and the customizable inserts let you tailor it to your specific needs. It’s a versatile and affordable option for gamers of all levels.
Pros:
- ✅ Customizable with inserts and doors.
- ✅ Cube design fits most board game boxes.
- ✅ Relatively affordable.
Cons:
- ❌ Assembly required (and it can be a pain).
- ❌ Can be a bit basic in terms of aesthetics.
- ❌ Not ideal for unusually shaped or large games.
Verdict: A solid all-around choice for most board game collectors, especially if you like the modern, minimalist look. Plus, you can easily expand your storage as your collection grows.
Atlantic Oskar Adjustable Media Cabinet
Don’t let the “media cabinet” name fool you; the Atlantic Oskar is surprisingly good for board games. The adjustable shelves give you flexibility to store games of different sizes, and the overall design is a bit more stylish than basic cube storage. I used one of these in my living room and it looks really nice.
Pros:
- ✅ Adjustable shelves for different sized games.
- ✅ More stylish than basic cube storage.
- ✅ Relatively compact footprint.
Cons:
- ❌ May not be wide enough for larger board games.
- ❌ Assembly can be tricky.
- ❌ Shelf depth might be limiting for some games.
Verdict: A good option if you want something that looks a little nicer than a basic cube shelf and need adjustable shelves. Best for smaller to medium-sized collections.
Whalen Industrial Storage Rack
If you have a serious board game collection, you need serious shelving. The Whalen Industrial Storage Rack is built to handle heavy loads, so you don’t have to worry about your games collapsing the whole thing. It’s not the prettiest, but it’s incredibly sturdy.
Pros:
- ✅ Extremely durable and can hold a lot of weight.
- ✅ Adjustable shelves for maximum flexibility.
- ✅ Industrial look can be cool in the right setting.
Cons:
- ❌ Not the most aesthetically pleasing.
- ❌ Can be overkill for smaller collections.
- ❌ Takes up a lot of space.
Verdict: Perfect for the hardcore collector with a ton of games and a need for heavy-duty storage. If you’re worried about weight capacity, this is the way to go.
Prepac Wall Storage Cabinet
Limited on floor space? The Prepac Wall Storage Cabinet mounts to the wall, freeing up valuable real estate. It’s a great solution for apartments or smaller homes where every inch counts. I actually put one of these in my home office to store paperwork, but I think it would be a perfect place to store smaller games.
Pros:
- ✅ Saves floor space by mounting on the wall.
- ✅ Clean and simple design.
- ✅ Good for smaller collections or specific games.
Cons:
- ❌ Requires wall mounting and can be difficult to install.
- ❌ Limited storage capacity.
- ❌ Not suitable for heavy or oversized games.
Verdict: A smart choice if you’re tight on space and need a discreet storage solution. Ideal for smaller games and lighter collections.
Amazon Basics 5-Shelf Adjustable Storage Shelving Unit
Sometimes, you just need something simple and affordable. The Amazon Basics 5-Shelf unit gets the job done without breaking the bank. It’s not fancy, but it’s functional and easy to assemble. It’s the perfect basic shelf to start off with.
Pros:
- ✅ Very affordable.
- ✅ Easy to assemble.
- ✅ Adjustable shelves.
Cons:
- ❌ Not the most stylish option.
- ❌ Can be a bit flimsy if overloaded.
- ❌ Shelves may sag with very heavy games.
Verdict: A budget-friendly option for those just starting their board game collection or who need basic, no-frills storage. Great for lighter games.
Buying Guide
Choosing the right shelf for your board games depends on a few key factors. Think about these points before you click “add to cart”:
- Size of your collection: How many games do you have now, and how many do you expect to acquire in the future?
- Size and shape of your games: Are your games mostly standard sizes, or do you have a lot of odd-shaped boxes?
- Available space: How much floor or wall space do you have to work with?
- Weight capacity: Board games can be heavy, so make sure the shelf can handle the load.
- Aesthetics: Do you want the shelf to blend in or stand out? Consider the style of your room.
- Budget: How much are you willing to spend on storage?
Also, consider the adjustability of the shelves. Adjustable shelves can be a lifesaver when you have games of different sizes. And don’t forget about assembly! Some shelves are easier to put together than others.
FAQs
Q: How do I measure my board games to make sure they’ll fit on a shelf?
A: Measure the height, width, and depth of your largest game. Then, compare those measurements to the shelf dimensions to make sure it will fit comfortably.
Q: What’s the best way to organize my board games on a shelf?
A: There’s no one “best” way, but many people organize by game type (e.g., strategy, party games) or by how often they play them. Put your favorites within easy reach!
Q: How can I prevent my shelves from sagging under the weight of my games?
A: Choose shelves with a high weight capacity. Distribute the weight evenly across the shelves, and avoid overloading any one section. You can also add extra support, like shelf supports or metal brackets.
Q: What if my board game boxes are different sizes?
A: Adjustable shelves are your best bet. You can also use shelf dividers or inserts to create custom compartments for different sized games.
Conclusion
Finding the perfect shelf for your board games can make a huge difference in your storage and organization. Whether you opt for the classic Kallax, a heavy-duty industrial rack, or a space-saving wall cabinet, the key is to choose something that fits your collection, your space, and your budget. Happy gaming!
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