Toe kick drawers are storage solutions that fit underneath kitchen cabinets and other built-ins. They utilize the empty space below the toe kick, which is the recessed area between the floor and bottom of the cabinet. Toe kick drawers are great for maximizing storage without requiring any additional floorspace. When designing and installing toe kick drawers, one of the most important factors to consider is what size they need to be. The dimensions of the toe kick space ultimately determine what size the drawers can be. Below we will look at standard toe kick sizes, typical drawer dimensions, how to measure, and design considerations when picking toe kick drawer sizes.
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Standard Toe Kick Sizes
The toe kick space under kitchen cabinets is generally 3-4 inches high. This is the standard clearance needed between the floor and cabinet bottom for feet and cleaning access. Here are some typical toe kick size ranges:
– Standard kitchen cabinet toe kick height: 3-4 inches
– Standard bathroom vanity toe kick height: 4-6 inches
– Standard built-in toe kick height: 4-6 inches
The depth of the toe kick will be determined by the depth of the cabinets or built-ins. Standard kitchen cabinets are often 24-25 inches deep, while bathroom vanities are commonly 21-24 inches deep.
Typical Toe Kick Drawer Sizes
Given those typical toe kick dimensions, here are some standard sizes for toe kick drawers:
– Height: 3-5 inches
– Width: Varies based on cabinet width, usually 21-36 inches
– Depth: Matches cabinet depth, typically 21-25 inches
The most common heights for toe kick drawers are 3 and 5 inches. A 3 inch height fits under standard kitchen cabinet toe kicks, while 5 inches fits under deeper bathroom vanity toe kicks. The width and depth is customizable based on the available toe kick space. Wider spaces like under a sink base or range can accommodate larger drawers.
Measuring for Toe Kick Drawers
When determining what size toe kick drawers to install, you need to measure the toe kick space under your specific cabinets. Here are some tips for measuring toe kicks:
– Use a tape measure to measure the height from the floor to the bottom of the cabinet. Deduct 1/4 inch to allow clearance above the drawer.
– Measure the depth from the wall to the cabinet face frame. Deduct 1/4 to 1/2 inch for clearance.
– For width, measure the total width of the toe kick space. For multiple drawers, divide by the number of drawers planned.
– Consider obstructions like pipes, vents or electrical outlets that may limit usable space.
– A rough framing opening of 1/2 to 1 inch wider and deeper is ideal to allow room for installation and adjustment.
Toe Kick Drawer Size Design Considerations
Here are some things to keep in mind when picking toe kick drawer sizes:
– Drawers should be at least 3 inches tall for accessibility. Under 3 inches can be difficult to open and utilize.
– Deeper 5-6 inch drawers may require additional support brackets. Stick to 3-4 inches deep for easiest installation.
– Wider drawers (30 inches+) should have a center support partition for stability.
-Allow for 1/4 inch clearance gaps on all sides of the drawer to prevent rubbing.
– Storage use will determine ideal width. Wide drawers are good for cookie sheets or large items. Narrower drawers around 15 inches work for utensils.
– If there is limited depth, consider pull-out trays instead of full drawers.
– Remember that drawer size affects weight capacity. Bigger is not always better.
Standard Toe Kick Drawer Types
Based on typical toe kick spaces, here are some standard toe kick drawer sizes that are commonly used:
3 Inch High Toe Kick Drawers
These short drawers fit under most kitchen cabinets and built-ins. Common dimensions are:
– Height: 3 inches
– Width: 15-30 inches
– Depth: 21-24 inches
Great for maximizing storage in shallow toe kicks. Typically used for storing kitchen tools, smallwares, or bathroom essentials.
5 Inch High Toe Kick Drawers
These deeper drawers require 5+ inch toe kicks found under some bath vanities and built-ins. Typical dimensions are:
– Height: 5 inches
– Width: 15-30 inches
– Depth: 21-25 inches
Provides more storage capacity. Often used for bath towels, cleaning supplies, or kitchen bakeware.
Super Shallow Toe Kick Drawers
For limited toe kicks under 2.5 inches deep, super shallow trays can be installed. Usual dimensions are:
– Height: 2-3 inches
– Width: 12-24 inches
– Depth: 14-18 inches
Good for minimal storage of keys, office supplies, etc. Not as much capacity as full drawers.
Extra Wide Toe Kick Drawers
Wider cabinet areas allow for larger toe kick drawers. Common extra wide sizes are:
– Height: 3-5 inches
– Width: 36-48 inches
– Depth: 21-25 inches
Great under a kitchen sink or range space. Provides storage for large cleaning supplies, cookie sheets, or appliances.
Toe Kick Drawer Materials
Toe kick drawers can be constructed from various materials such as:
– Wood – Plywood, solid hardwood, birch, maple. Provides a built-in custom look.
– Plastic – Polymer is lightweight and moisture-resistant.
– Metal – Powder coated steel offers durability. Galvanized steel is moisture-resistant.
– Wire – Chrome wire baskets are open for visibility.
Plywood or steel drawers are the most common. The material should suit the cabinet material style. Custom drawer fronts can match cabinet door styles.
Toe Kick Drawer Design Tips
– Integrate drawer fronts into cabinet door style for a cohesive look.
– Utilize soft-closing drawer slides for smooth, quiet operation.
– For accessibility, include drawer pulls on the drawer front.
– Position more frequently accessed items in the top drawers.
– Allow 1-2 inches behind drawers for plumbing or electrical clearance.
– Install drawer locks for child safety if storing dangerous items.
– Make sure floors are level so drawers glide properly when opened.
– Use drawer organizers and dividers to maximize storage.
Conclusion
The key to successfully adding toe kick drawers is taking detailed measurements of the available toe kick space prior to installing. This ensures you get the maximum size possible. Standard toe kick heights under kitchen and bath cabinets are usually 3-6 inches. Typical drawer dimensions are 3-5 inches high, 15-30 inches wide, and 21-25 inches deep. The actual size should be 1/4 inch less than the measured opening for proper clearances. Consider your storage needs, usage, and cabinet style when selecting the best toe kick drawer size options. With meticulous measuring and design, toe kick drawers can greatly increase your kitchen or bathroom storage.