---
title: "HDB Storeroom vs Bomb Shelter: Which Should You Rack First?"
date: "2025-11-15"
excerpt: "Most BTO flats have both a storeroom and a bomb shelter. Here's how to decide which one to set up first — and what works in each space."
---

Most HDB BTO flats come with two storage spaces: a standard storeroom and a bomb shelter. Both can be fitted with an L-shaped rack. But they have different dimensions, different constraints, and often suit different types of storage.

## Key differences

| | Storeroom | Bomb Shelter |
|---|---|---|
| Size | ~2–3 sqm | ~2–3 sqm |
| Door | Standard swing door | Thick reinforced blast door |
| Wall depth | Standard | Thicker reinforced walls |
| Ceiling height | Standard room height | Same |

The main practical difference is the bomb shelter door. It's significantly thicker and heavier, and opens inward. This affects how close to the door your first rack bay can be — you'll need to leave enough clearance for the door to open fully.

## What goes where

**Storeroom** — better for:
- Items you access frequently (cleaning equipment, pantry overflow)
- Bulky items that need floor space (vacuum cleaner, luggage)
- Things that benefit from standard door access

**Bomb shelter** — better for:
- Items accessed less frequently (seasonal decorations, document boxes)
- Long-term storage
- Anything you're happy to retrieve less often

## Can you rack both?

Yes — and many of our customers do exactly that. Some install the storeroom rack before move-in and the bomb shelter rack a few months later once they've settled in. Others do both at the same time to get a better combined rate.

## What to watch for in bomb shelters

1. **Door clearance** — we always measure and design around your specific door swing
2. **Pipes and meters** — bomb shelters often have water pipes or electrical meters on one wall; we design around these
3. **Ventilation** — there's usually a ventilation duct in the ceiling; nothing should obstruct it

Both spaces are excellent for L-shaped racks. The important thing is getting the design right for each room's specific dimensions and constraints.

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[Learn more about our bomb shelter racks →](/hdb-bomb-shelter) | [Get a free quotation →](/quotation)