What Kind Of Brackets Should You Use For Glass Floating Shelves?

We may receive a commission on purchases made from links.

Glass shelves might be the best style of floating shelf for your space, instantly adding a sense of openness while also showcasing your favorite decor. They can fit into a number of interior styles, ranging from a sleek, modern bathroom to a midcentury kitchen. But behind that clean, open feeling is some serious hardware. The type of bracket that you use on your glass shelves can play a major role in the safety and stability of your storage system. Using the wrong hardware can lead to cracking or breaking, which can be exacerbated by any additional weight, so it's important to find the right type for your glass shelves.

Fixed brackets are a popular choice for shelves, holding the glass securely from the side and underneath. These brackets come in a range of shapes, including small circular shapes, larger L-shaped mounts, or the shape of these Dulles Glass Shelf Brackets, and they are generally easy to install. If you're working with glass of varying thickness, adjustable brackets like AWEN Brushed Nickel Adjustable Brackets are a more flexible option. These function similarly to fixed ones but can be tightened or loosened to accommodate different shelf sizes, making them a versatile option for a custom setup.

For a more streamlined look, you might want to use a floating bracket, such as this one from Wayfair. As the name suggests, these brackets are hidden from sight, giving your glass shelves even more of a floating effect. Their installation can be more complicated, as it requires precision and often additional reinforcements on a wall stud. And for right angles, corner brackets can be an effective means of mounting your glass shelves, especially in awkward corners of your home.

Now that you understand the different bracket types for floating glass shelves, how do you decide which one is right for your space? First, you'll want to consider the shelf's location and what you intend to store on it. For example, if you are installing shelves for the perfect bathroom storage with limited wall space, you might want to opt for a fixed bracket made of stainless steel, which offers moisture resistance and a sleek, modern look. In a kitchen or home office, you might prefer a brass corner bracket, which is able to sustain a decent weight capacity and can be the perfect way to display your everyday clutter.

Weight capacity is another crucial factor in determining which style and material that you will be able to use. Thicker glass shelves are typically able to hold more weight, but only if the mounting brackets are also able to bear it. You should always match the bracket's load rating with your shelf's intended use to ensure that your floating glass shelves are safe. If you're displaying a few candles or collectables, you should be fine to use standard brackets. Planning to stack heavy books or use it as a minibar? You'll need more heavy-duty hardware that is ideally anchored into wall studs for additional support.

Additionally, you shouldn't overlook aesthetics when installing glass shelves. It isn't always about completely covering up your hardware. Instead, let them serve as the perfect opportunity to create a bit of unity around your space. Adding brass or matte black accents to match your existing hardware can be an excellent way to introduce glass shelves without completely overwhelming your space.