How to store cable box with mounted tv

In this day and age, it can seem near impossible to keep your entertainment center looking stylish and organized without it feeling overrun with electronics and cords. This isn’t an area that can be minimized because usually, it’s all used and needed. Instead, you will need to get creative and find ways to hide or camouflage your electronic boxes.

The following tips will show you ways to hide your cable box, though most would work well for routers, gaming systems, and DVD players as well. 

Before You Begin

Before you start brainstorming, you will need to know how your appliance communicates with the remote.  

If the remote is Bluetooth, wi-fi, or radiofrequency (RT), then the task will be greatly simplified as you don’t need to have the box in direct view of the remote for it to function correctly. 

Conversely, if using an infrared remote, the cable box will need to remain in a direct line of sight so that communication between the two is not obstructed. In this case, your primary focus will be to camouflage the box or purchase a signal extender.

1. Mount it

If you have enough room, mounting the cable box on the wall behind your TV is likely your best bet. This way, the box is out of sight and also not taking up space that could be utilized by something else. 

Depending on how you choose to mount it, you may not even need tools! You may opt to use heavy-duty velcro strips, command hooks, install a small shelf, put screws in the wall and hang the box directly from them (some have eye hooks underneath), or buy a specialty mounting kit.

You aren’t completely out of luck if your remote will not reach the cable box with it mounted behind the TV. The next tip will introduce you to a small product that may solve your dilemma. 

2. Remote Extender

A remote extender is a tiny corded product that you attach to the front of your TV. It will pick up the infrared signal from your remote and pass it to your concealed or mounted cable box. This product is typically ready to use straight out of the packaging and can be purchased for around $15.

3. Drawer or Cabinet

Place the cable box in a drawer or cabinet that’s in your entertainment center or sofa table. When using a closed-off space such as these, consider airflow to reduce overheating and cord paths. Many entertainment centers have fairly large holes already built-in for this reason.

If the drawer or cabinet you plan to use doesn’t have a hole already, you may be able to add one quite easily, depending on the material. Ensure the hole is big enough for any cords needed and a bit extra in diameter to allow some airflow for your device. 

4. Books

You can use books to camouflage your cable box by placing one above and below the box. You could also use just the dust jacket from a similar-sized book and wrap it around it. Remember that cable boxes need proper ventilation and can overheat if the heat vents are obstructed.

5. Basket With Holes

Just a quick walk around your local box store, and you will be sure to find a selection of plastic storage containers that have a basketweave appearance. The holes in the design are perfect for concealing a cable box that needs to stay in line with the remote. Just place the basket upside down over the top of your cable box. 

This will look much cleaner while maintaining airflow and allowing cords to pass through. If desired, you could then place a plant or decorative item on top of the box. 

6. Cube Storage Bin

Another type of storage that is handy for hiding electronics is the cube bins with cut-out handles. The cable box should fit perfectly in the bin while the handles allow for wires and ventilation. These bins will look stylish and organized in your entertainment center. 

7. Add Decor

At the least, you can add an artificial plant or a framed photo to the top of your cable box. The box will still be in plain sight, but any added decor will steal the spotlight and the box will be a bit less noticeable. 

As you can see, you have several clever ways to reduce the clutter on your entertainment center by hiding your cable box. No matter which tip you decide to use, it’s sure to be a quick, easy, and inexpensive way to spruce up and modernize your living space. 

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