Lockers might seem like a simple purchase—but get it wrong, and it can turn into a storage nightmare. Whether you’re kitting out a school, gym, office, or changing room, the lockers you choose need to tick all the right boxes in terms of security, durability, and user experience.
To help you make the right choice (and avoid buyer’s remorse), here are the most common mistakes to dodge when buying lockers:
One of the biggest slip-ups is not thinking about who’ll actually be using the lockers. A locker for a primary school child? Not the same as one for a warehouse worker or gym-goer. Height, handle type, lock mechanism—even the colour—can affect how practical and accessible the locker is.
Top Tip: Always consider your users first. What’s the customers needs? What will they be storing? What kind of access do they require?
We get it—budgets matter. But going straight for the cheapest option can cost you more in the long run. Poor quality materials, weak locks, and flimsy doors lead to faster wear and tear (aka: more replacements, more hassle, more cost).
Top Tip: Look for value, not just low prices. Investing in durable, high-quality lockers saves you time, money, and stress down the line.
It sounds basic, but you’d be surprised how often lockers get ordered without properly measuring the space first. If your lockers don’t fit in the area well, you’ll end up with cramped walkways or wasted space.
Top Tip: Measure everything. Factor in door clearance, user flow, and any restrictions like low ceilings or wall obstructions. You can even sketch it out or request a layout plan from your supplier.
Lockers that trap moisture or smell? Ew. Proper ventilation is a must, especially in environments like gyms, swimming pools, or schools where clothes, towels, or food might be stored.
Top Tip: Choose lockers with built-in vents or add-on ventilation features. Your users (and your nose) will thank you.
From key locks to padlocks, coin return to digital locks—there’s a lot to choose from. If you don’t match the lock type to the environment, it can lead to frustration, lost keys, or security issues.
Top Tip: Think about ease of use, user turnover, and how secure you need things to be. For high-traffic areas, digital or coin-operated locks can be a game-changer.
Things break—it happens. But if your lockers come from a supplier that doesn’t offer spare parts (or makes it impossible to get them), a small repair can mean replacing the whole unit.
Top Tip: Choose a supplier that offers spare doors, locks, hinges, and keys. It’ll make maintenance way easier and cheaper.
Buying lockers doesn’t have to be successful—but it does need a bit of planning. Avoiding these common mistakes can save you time, money, and headaches later. If you’re ever unsure, reach out to a trusted supplier for advice. (That’s us, by the way).
Need help choosing the right lockers? Drop us an email—we’re here to make it easy.
