cubbies

Cubbies are storage units organized into multiple small compartments, designed to hold personal belongings and small items. The term is commonly used for classroom and daycare settings, where each compartment is assigned to an individual such as a student, a family member, or a staff member. In schools, cubbies help children store backpacks, coats, lunch boxes, and projects, while in homes they may serve as toy organizers or shoe racks.

Cubbies vary in construction and design. They include freestanding units with rows of open compartments, wall-mounted configurations, and modular systems that can be stacked or rearranged. Materials range from wood and plywood to particleboard with laminate, and some metal variants exist for higher durability. They can be open-front for quick access or fitted with doors or bins. Many units include name labels or pictures to aid organization and are often made at a low height for child use and safety.

Variants and contexts: in classrooms, cubbies are typically arranged in banks or rows to maximize accessibility and supervision. In libraries, offices, or mailrooms, cubby-like storage may function as small parcel slots or document bins. Children’s furniture often emphasizes rounded edges and easy-to-clean finishes to support daily use and hygiene.

Etymology and usage: the word cubby derives from cubbyhole, referring to a small sheltered space or hollow. The plural cubbies is common in American English and has broadened to describe any collection of small compartments used for personal storage.