A cable management box is the simplest way to hide an ugly power strip and the nest of cords around it. Drop the strip inside, feed the cables through the slots, and the mess disappears behind a clean lid. Here’s how to choose and use one.
What a cable box is for
Power strips are functional but unsightly, and the loose cable around them collects dust and looks messy. A cable management box is an enclosure with entry and exit slots: the strip lives inside, only the cables you need poke out, and the lid gives you a tidy surface instead of a tangle. It’s ideal next to desks, TV units, and routers.
Where to use one
- Under or beside a desk — conceal the strip and charger bricks.
- Behind the TV — hide the media-center power and streaming-box adapters.
- By the router — tuck away the modem, router, and their power supplies.
- Bedside — keep chargers tidy; see nightstand cable management.
How to choose the right box
| Consideration | What to look for |
|---|---|
| Size | Big enough for your power strip plus slack cable and bricks |
| Ventilation | Slots/openings so adapters don’t trap heat |
| Material | Sturdy, non-slip base; safe around warm adapters |
| Slots | Enough openings for all your in/out cables |
Our cable management box 2-pack covers a desk and a TV unit in one purchase. See more in the cable boxes category.
Box vs tray: which is better?
A box fully hides the strip for the cleanest look and is great where the setup rarely changes. A tray keeps things accessible and ventilated and is easier to modify — compare in our cable tray guide. Many people use a box at the wall outlet and a tray under the desk.
Setup tips
- Coil excess cable loosely before placing it in the box — don’t cram it.
- Leave adapters a little breathing room for heat.
- Label cables at the exit slots so you can find the right one later.
- Secure the feed cable run with cable clips.
Frequently asked questions
Is it safe to put a power strip in a box?
Yes, provided the box is ventilated and you don’t overload the strip or pack it so tightly that heat can’t escape.
What size box do I need?
Measure your power strip and add room for the plugs and a little slack; choose a box comfortably larger than that.
Can I use it outdoors?
These boxes are designed for indoor use; outdoor power needs weatherproof enclosures instead.
Shop cable management boxes
Browse cable boxes and the full cable management range to finish the job.