How to Choose Classroom Cubbies and Lockers: Materials, Sizes, Safety

Quick Answer

For most preschool and daycare settings, choose cubbies made of sturdy, easy-to-clean materials like molded plastic or sealed wood, with rounded edges and secure anchoring. Consider the age and number of children to determine size and compartment count, and always prioritize safety features like anti-tip hardware and non-toxic finishes.

When setting up a classroom or daycare, cubbies and lockers are more than just storage—they give each child a personal space and help keep the room organized. But with so many options, it can be tricky to know which ones will actually work for your space and your children.

This guide walks you through the key decisions: material, size, and safety. We'll also give you clear decision rules so you can choose cubbies that are safe, durable, and a good fit for your program.

Choose the Right Material for Durability and Easy Cleaning

The material of your cubbies affects how long they last, how easy they are to clean, and how they look in your room. Common options include wood, molded plastic, and laminate. Wood cubbies look warm and sturdy but can show scratches and need regular sealing to resist moisture. Molded plastic is a top choice for active preschools because it is lightweight, easy to wipe down, and often has rounded edges built in. Laminate offers a smooth, low-maintenance surface that is budget-friendly, though it can chip if bumped by wheeled toys or furniture.

Think about what your cubbies will face every day: sticky hands, muddy shoes, and the occasional marker accident. If you want to spend less time scrubbing and more time teaching, a non-porous, wipe-clean surface is a must. Also, consider how much assembly you are willing to do—some materials come pre-assembled, while others require building on-site, which can affect their stability and how long they last.

• Look for metal or plastic hardware that won't rust or reveal sharp edges.
• If choosing wood, confirm it has a non-toxic, water-based finish that resists stains.

Get Sizing Right for Your Age Group and Space

Size matters for both usability and safety. For infants and toddlers, lower cubbies (around 24–30 inches high) allow children to access their belongings without climbing. Preschoolers (3–5 years) can manage cubbies up to 48 inches, but keep frequently used items at low shelving to prevent falls. Measure your wall space to decide how many compartments you need—each child should have their own cubby, and you'll also want space for extra supplies or bags.

Consider the depth and width of each cubby. A wider cubby can hold a backpack or a change of clothes, but if you have limited floor space, a taller or multi-tier design may fit more in a smaller footprint. Don’t forget to account for aisle space—children need enough room to move comfortably between cubbies, especially during busy transitions.

• Use painter's tape on the floor to visualize how cubbies will fit in your room before ordering.

Safety First: Anchoring, Edges, and Ventilation

Safety is the priority in any child care setting. Always secure tall cubbies or lockers to the wall to prevent tipping, especially in earthquake zones or with active climbers. Choose pieces with rounded corners and no sharp edges to reduce injury risk. For enclosed lockers, ensure there are ventilation holes or an open front so children can’t get trapped inside.

Also consider the finish: make sure it is non-toxic and free of lead, phthalates, and other harmful chemicals. Check for pinch points in hinges or doors, and avoid cubbies with small parts that could become choking hazards. When in doubt, look for products that meet safety standards like ASTM or CPSIA.

• Regularly check and tighten screws and bolts to keep cubbies stable.
• If you have a door-style locker, choose ones with magnetic closures rather than latches that can pinch little fingers.

How to Maximize Storage and Organization

Cubbies aren't just for jackets—they can store art projects, extra clothes, or quiet-time items. Think about the flow of your day: if children need a space for their water bottles, add hooks or a caddy. Use labels with names and pictures to help kids identify their own cubby, which also builds independence.

Combining cubbies with other storage like shelves or bins can create a more flexible system. For example, an open shelf can hold shared supplies, while individual cubbies keep personal items separate. This also helps you keep your room tidy and reduces clutter on tabletops.

• Add a small shelf or hook above each cubby for a backpack or a water bottle.

Decision Rules for Buying Classroom Cubbies

• Material: Choose plastic for easy cleaning and durability; wood for a warm look if properly sealed; laminate for budget-friendly but less rugged. If you expect heavy use and messy kids, molded plastic is your best bet.
• Size and Capacity: Measure your floor space and count how many children need cubbies. For toddlers, keep shelves low; for preschoolers, tall enough to grow with them. Order a few extra cubbies for future enrollment—you'll thank yourself later.
• Safety Features: Look for rounded corners, non-toxic finishes, and secure wall-anchoring capability. For lockers, ensure ventilation and safe door closures. When in doubt, choose products with clear safety certifications.

Product Spotlight

• Indoor/Outdoor Bases: This Indoor/Outdoor Bases set from Champion Sports is a practical choice for teaching supplies and child care settings. Designed for versatile use, the set includes one home plate and three bases, all made from orange molded vinyl for a clear, visible appearance on the field. Set includes one home plate and three bases for a complete base setup. While not a cubby, this set shows how molded materials endure heavy outdoor use—similar to how many cubbies use molded plastic for durability. It’s a reminder to look for robust, easy-to-clean materials in your storage choices.
• Carolina Dress-Up Center with Mirror: 3 years & up. This four sided center has ample storage for dramatic play clothes and accessories. Sides feature a full length mirror, four storage shelves with scalloped edge design, three double hooks for hanging play clothes, additional storage area on bottom, and a plain side that can be used for display. Measures 18"W x 42"H x 18"D. This dress-up center offers multiple storage solutions in one unit, showing how multi-functional furniture can maximize space. It also demonstrates the importance of choosing a piece with the right height (42") for preschool-age children to reach their belongings safely.

Who Should Buy What

Best for

• Preschools with active children: choose molded plastic cubbies with rounded edges and easy-to-clean surfaces.
• Child care centers with limited space: opt for compact, multi-tier designs that maximize vertical storage.

Not for

• If you need specialized storage like a dress-up center, consider a dedicated piece like the Carolina Dress-Up Center with Mirror instead of standard cubbies.

Choosing the right classroom cubbies and daycare lockers comes down to material, size, and safety. By following these decision rules, you can create a storage solution that keeps your room organized, supports child independence, and—most importantly—keeps every child safe. Measure twice, choose materials that are easy to clean, and always anchor tall units to the wall.