Best Desk Cable Grommets for Alcove Storage & Home Offices: 2025 Review
DR Joinery
Expert Joiner & Proprietor
Cable management is often an afterthought, but in the tight confines of a Victorian terrace alcove, it's essential. Nothing ruins the look of a custom-fitted shelving unit faster than a bird's nest of tangled wires running down the wall.
Drilling a hole into a finished piece of timber requires confidence and the right hardware. I've seen too many homeowners attempt this with standard hole saws only to tear the veneer or fit a grommet that rattles every time they type.
In this review, I'm looking at three cable grommet solutions I've encountered. Whether you're after a solid metal finish to match your door furniture or a complete kit with a hole saw for a quick fix, here is what works.
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Specs vs. The Real World
The Spec: "Hole Saw Inclusion"
"Kits that come with a hole saw are 'ready to use' out of the box."
The free hole saws simply aren't sharp enough for hardwood like oak or ash. They work on MDF, but for real timber, use a professional Starrett or Bosch saw to avoid burning the wood.
The Spec: "Universal Fit"
"A 60mm grommet fits a 60mm hole perfectly."
If the fit is too loose, the grommet spins when you pull a cable. I always wrap a single layer of masking tape around the grommet insert to create a friction fit that stays put.
My Top 3 Recommendations
Three options to cover different needs and budgets
2 Pack 60mm Desk Cable Grommet Cover, Heavy Duty Zinc Alloy
AJinacious
This is wrongly categorized as 'budget' just because of the price—it's actually solid Zinc Alloy. For £4.99, getting two metal grommets rather than plastic is exceptional value. The gold finish looks superb against dark walnut or stained pine shelves.
The Good
- Solid metal construction feels premium
- Much more durable than plastic alternatives
- Gold finish adds a touch of class to bespoke furniture
The Bad
- 60mm hole might be tight for multiple bulky plugs
- Metal edge can be unforgiving on cable sheathing if not deburred
Installer Tip:
When installing metal grommets into timber, be careful not to make the hole too tight. Metal doesn't flex like plastic. Use a 60mm saw but test on scrap first; you might need to sand the hole edges slightly for a perfect flush fit.
Priced at £4.99 at the time of writing
Check Price on Amazon8 PCS Desk Grommet 80 mm, Round Plastic Desk Cable Grommet with Metal Hole Saw
Teokantz
While plastic, this kit earns the 'Quality' badge for utility and size. The 80mm diameter is significant because it allows a standard UK 3-pin plug to pass through without dismantling the plug—a huge time saver. The included hole saw makes it a complete solution for fitting out a full home office.
The Good
- 80mm size easily accommodates UK plug heads
- Includes the correct size hole saw (huge bonus)
- Spring-loaded closure keeps dust out
The Bad
- It is plastic, so lacks the premium feel of metal
- Included hole saw is basic – go slow on hardwoods
Installer Tip:
Because this is 80mm, it removes a lot of material. Only use this on desktops at least 25mm thick, or position it well away from the edge to avoid weakening the timber. Ensure the spring cover faces away from your seating position for a cleaner look.
Priced at £11.29 at the time of writing
Check Price on Amazon16Pcs 35mm Desk Grommet with Hole Saw White Cable Grommet
HO2NLE
Sometimes an 80mm or 60mm hole is overkill, especially for a narrow alcove shelf. These 35mm grommets are the problem solver for 'just a charging cable' or a mouse wire. They are discreet, tidy, and maintain the structural integrity of thinner shelves.
The Good
- Tiny footprint ideal for shallow shelves
- Includes hole saw
- Very discreet and low profile
The Bad
- Too small for a UK 3-pin plug head to pass through
- You must feed cables from the non-plug end
Installer Tip:
Since you can't fit a plug head through 35mm, these are best for USB cables or lamp wires where you can detach the plug. If installing into a painted MDF alcove shelf, drill from the top down and put a scrap block underneath to stop the paint blowing out on the underside.
Priced at £6.99 at the time of writing
Check Price on AmazonFrequently Asked Questions
What size hole do I need for a UK plug?
Can I install these myself in an existing desk?
Metal vs Plastic grommets: which is better?
Where is the best place to position a cable grommet?
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