Choose a bin · Size guide
11-inch or 13-inch bins? Measure the opening.
The number on a cube organizer is a starting point. The usable opening, the bin’s complete outside dimensions and the room to pull it out determine whether it works.
Quick answer: a bin that is exactly as tall or wide as its opening has no spare space on that axis. Measure the clear width, usable depth and lowest height separately. Subtract your chosen clearance from each, then compare those limits with the assembled bin.
Our tool starts with 0.5 inch of total clearance per axis. That is a comparison setting you can change, not a universal manufacturer requirement. Centering a bin with 0.5 inch of total width clearance leaves 0.25 inch on each side.
What fits an 11-, 12- or 13-inch opening?
This table assumes the opening really measures the stated size in all three directions. If its depth or height differs, calculate that axis separately. It uses the tool’s starting 0.5-inch allowance.
| Measured clear opening width × depth × height | Maximum bin outside dimensions with 0.5-inch allowance |
|---|---|
| 11 × 11 × 11 in | 10.5 × 10.5 × 10.5 in |
| 11.5 × 11.5 × 11.5 in | 11 × 11 × 11 in |
| 12 × 12 × 12 in | 11.5 × 11.5 × 11.5 in |
| 13 × 13 × 13 in | 12.5 × 12.5 × 12.5 in |
| 13.25 × 13.25 × 13.25 in | 12.75 × 12.75 × 12.75 in |
Do not round an opening up. A 12.75-inch opening is not 13 inches. A listing called “13-inch cube” does not establish the clear opening or guarantee that every 13-inch bin will slide through it.
Two product examples, with the arithmetic
Smaller fabric bins: height still matters
Amazon Basics’ red fabric cube bins, six-pack, are listed at 10.5 × 10.5 × 11 inches per bin. With the starting allowance, one needs an opening of at least 11 × 11 × 11.5 inches. It fails the height check in an opening that is 11 inches in every direction.
Larger cube bins: check usable depth
Room by Zora’s oatmeal beige cube bins, two-pack, are listed at 12.5 × 12.5 × 11.5 inches per bin. With the same allowance, one needs at least 13 × 13 × 12 inches. An opening that is 13 inches wide but only 12 inches deep fails the depth check.
These are dimensional comparisons using published specifications. We have not physically tested either product. A pack contains separate bins; the dimensions describe one. Check the selected color, size, quantity, current price, shipping and return terms on the retailer’s page before ordering.
Five measurements before you buy
- Find the narrowest width. Check trim, hinges and any lip at the front, plus the space farther inside.
- Measure supporting depth. A bin’s base needs support. Leave space behind it if the wall or baseboard prevents the shelf from sitting where expected.
- Measure to the lowest obstruction. Include handles and any contents that rise above the bin.
- Plan the exit. Check that your hand can reach the handle and that the loaded bin can pass the door or hinge.
- Make a light mockup. A folded cardboard outline can reveal an obvious mismatch before you order. It cannot establish the actual bin’s stiffness, bulging or load capacity.
Will these fit KALLAX, Brightroom or ClosetMaid?
We do not certify compatibility with a furniture brand. Models and openings differ, and an organizer’s overall dimensions are not its inside opening. Measure your exact unit and compare each axis. Do not use another brand’s insert or bin name as proof of a match.
Can I rotate a rectangular bin?
Rotation may exchange width and depth, but it can also put a handle out of reach. Recalculate in the orientation you will use and check access. The current tool uses each product’s stated orientation; it does not rotate it automatically.
Compare the Zora options with your openingFor other bins, use the same subtraction method above. Continue with handle height and shelf clearance or the path past doors and hinges.