Best Wire Pull Out Baskets for Kitchen Storage: 2025 Expert Review
DR Joinery
Expert Joiner & Kitchen Specialist
We have all been there—on our hands and knees, torch in hand, rummaging through the back of a deep corner cupboard for that one tin of tomatoes. It is a common frustration in many York kitchens, especially in older properties where layouts can be quirky and deep cupboards become 'black holes' for cookware.
As a joiner, I often see clients ripping out perfectly good carcasses simply because the internal storage does not work for them. Retrofitting wire pull out baskets is often a far more cost-effective solution than a full kitchen rip-out. It transforms a static shelf into a usable drawer, bringing the contents to you.
However, not all wireware is created equal. I have seen cheap runners buckle under the weight of cast iron pans and chrome that pits within months. In this review, I am sharing three systems I would happily recommend, covering a budget fix, a full larder upgrade, and a heavy-duty problem solver.
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Specs vs. The Real World
The Spec: "Load Capacity (e.g., 20kg)"
"The basket can hold 20kg of tins and plates without issue."
The runners might hold the weight, but the screws fixing them to the carcass side are the weak point. If you have chipboard walls (common in most kitchens), standard screws can tear out under load. I always recommend upgrading to longer screws or using Euroscrews if the holes allow.
The Spec: "Fits 600mm Cabinet"
"Designed to fit perfectly into any 600mm external width unit."
Kitchen cabinets vary. A '600mm unit' might have 15mm or 18mm thick sides. This changes the internal width by 6mm. If the runners aren't telescopic or don't have spacers, you will need to pack them out with timber strips to get a smooth action.
My Top 3 Recommendations
Three options to cover different needs and budgets
CASARIA® Pull Out Telescopic Kitchen Drawer | For 60cm Units
CASARIA
If you are looking to upgrade a single cupboard without spending a fortune, this Casaria drawer is a solid entry-level choice. It is designed for the standard 600mm unit found in most UK kitchens and offers a decent 20kg capacity, which is plenty for dry food stuffs and lighter cookware.
The Good
- Cost-effective way to improve a single annoying cupboard
- Chrome-plated finish looks smart when new
- Telescopic rails allow full extension for better access
The Bad
- 20kg limit means it is not suitable for heavy cast iron pots
- Chrome plating needs keeping dry to avoid rust over time
Installer Tip:
Before screwing this in, check your cabinet sides for 'bowing'. Older carcasses often bulge in the middle. Use a straight edge. If there is a dip, use washers behind the runner fixings to ensure the runners remain perfectly parallel, otherwise the drawer will bind.
Priced at £29.70 at the time of writing
Check Price on AmazonSAILUN Pull-Out Wire Baskets 600mm Wide Cabinet - Set of 4
SAILUN
This set of four baskets represents excellent value for a comprehensive project. It allows you to convert a standard tall cupboard into a functional larder unit. The polished chrome finish is decent, and having four matching units ensures a cohesive look for your kitchen renovation.
The Good
- Fantastic value for a set of four - cheaper than buying individually
- Ideal for creating a bespoke larder unit
- Rust-resistant polished chrome finish
The Bad
- Requires precise installation of four sets of runners (take your time)
- Suitable for 16-18mm board thickness only
Installer Tip:
When installing a stack of four like this, spacing is critical. Don't just guess the heights. Place your tallest items (cereal boxes, oil bottles) in the basket to simulate the height needed before screwing the runners in. It saves redrilling holes later.
Priced at £75.64 at the time of writing
Check Price on AmazonHeavy Duty Kitchen Pull Out Wire Basket Base Unit Storage (500mm)
Stockpile
Sizing is the number one headache in joinery. This Stockpile basket is a problem-solver because it is labelled explicitly for specific cabinet widths (e.g., this model for a 500mm unit has an actual width of 414mm). The 'Heavy Duty' designation implies a sturdier wire gauge, making it better suited for pots and pans than cheaper alternatives.
The Good
- Clear sizing helps avoid the 'it doesn't fit' nightmare
- Heavy-duty construction creates less flex under load
- Deep basket (130mm high) keeps contents secure
The Bad
- Slightly more expensive per unit than budget options
- Industrial aesthetic might not suit open cabinetry
Installer Tip:
This product highlights the importance of 'Internal' vs 'External' width. A 500mm unit usually has an internal width of 464mm (if using 18mm board). This basket is 414mm wide, meaning the runners take up the slack (approx 25mm each side). Always measure your internal space twice before ordering to ensure the runners will bridge the gap.
Priced at £39.89 at the time of writing
Check Price on AmazonFrequently Asked Questions
How do I measure my cupboard for pull out baskets?
Can I fit these baskets into an old kitchen?
Are wire baskets better than solid drawers?
Do I need a professional to install these?
How much weight can these baskets actually hold?
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