Nobody wants to look at an ugly black router blinking in their beautifully decorated home. Whether you’re dealing with a modem, router, or cable box, these eyesores can really kill the vibe of your space. But here’s the thing – you don’t have to live with them front and center!
I’ve rounded up some seriously creative ways people have hidden their broadband routers using covers, screens, and clever camouflage techniques. From fake books to woven baskets, these ideas will help you keep your WiFi strong while maintaining your home’s aesthetic.
The Fake Book Genius
One of my favorite discoveries has to be the fake book method. People are literally hollowing out old hardcover books or creating faux book spines to disguise their routers! DigsDigs showcases this brilliant approach where routers disappear right on your bookshelf.
The key is to either hollow out real books (carefully cutting out the pages) or create a box with fake book spines attached. Some crafty DIYers even use vintage book covers with hinges for easy access when you need to reset the router.
Pro tip: Make sure to include ventilation holes and don’t seal it completely – your router needs to breathe! DIYcrap shows a great example of this technique in action.
Woven Baskets: The Classic Solution
Baskets are probably the most popular router-hiding solution, and for good reason! Hydrangea Treehouse demonstrates how a simple woven basket with holes can perfectly camouflage your router while allowing proper airflow.
The beauty of this method is that baskets come in every style imaginable – from boho rattan to sleek modern designs. Plus, they’re budget-friendly! Just make sure to choose one with:
- Natural holes for ventilation
- Easy access to the top or back for cables
- A size that accommodates your router with some breathing room
Creative Wall-Mounted Solutions
Wall mounting opens up a whole world of creative possibilities. Some ingenious homeowners create custom wooden boxes that mount directly to the wall, while others hide routers behind artwork or decorative panels.
One particularly clever approach involves mounting the router high on the wall and covering it with a mini shelf that blends with your wall color. It’s functional storage that doubles as router camouflage!
Cable Organization Boxes
These aren’t just for routers – they hide all the cable chaos too! Cable organizer boxes can be attached under desks, mounted on walls, or simply placed wherever your router needs to live. They’re particularly great for home offices where you want everything looking clean and professional.
Furniture Integration
Smart furniture choices can make router hiding effortless. Cane or wicker-door cabinets are perfect because they allow WiFi signals to pass through while keeping everything hidden. Food52 recommends this approach for its balance of style and functionality.
IKEA’s BESTA series is particularly popular for this because you can customize it with different door styles and even drill holes in the back for cable management.
DIY Decorative Screens
Sometimes the simplest solutions are the best! A basic screen made from popsicle sticks, bamboo, or thin wood slats can effectively hide your router while adding a decorative element to your space. You can paint them any color to match your decor.
Metal and Laser-Cut Covers
For a more modern, industrial look, metal covers with decorative cutouts are stunning. These can be custom-made or purchased online. The perforated design allows for excellent ventilation and signal transmission while looking like a piece of art.
Important Considerations
Before you start hiding your router, remember these crucial points:
Heat Management: Routers generate heat and need ventilation. Never seal them in airtight containers.
Signal Strength: Some materials can interfere with WiFi signals. Metal and dense materials are the biggest culprits.
Access: You’ll need to reset your router occasionally, so make sure your hiding solution allows easy access.
Cable Management: Plan how cables will enter and exit your hiding solution cleanly.
Where to Shop for Supplies
Many of these solutions use common household items or affordable materials:
- Baskets: Thrift stores, IKEA, Target, Amazon
- Books for hollowing: Goodwill, library sales, garage sales
- Decorative boxes: HomeGoods, World Market, craft stores
- Metal covers: Etsy has lots of custom options
The Bottom Line
You don’t have to choose between good WiFi and good style. With a little creativity and some basic materials, you can completely transform your router from an eyesore into a decorative element (or better yet, make it disappear entirely!).
The best solution for you will depend on your router size, home decor style, and technical setup. Start with something simple like a basket or decorative box, test your signal strength, and adjust from there.
Sources and Inspiration:
- DigsDigs – 35 Smart Router Hiding Ideas
- Food52 – 8 Clever Ways to Conceal Your Router
- Hydrangea Treehouse – How to Hide Router Stylishly
Have you tried any creative router hiding solutions? I’d love to see your before and after photos and hear what worked (or didn’t work) for you!
Leave a comment