Rubbermaid FG5E2102SNCKL FastTrack® 4' Wire Shelf

We installed 10 shelves. The only part we had to be careful about was counting to order the proper number of uprights and brackets. It seems easy to do the math, yet we also had to consider whether we wanted to support the shelves in 3 places (recommended) or in 4 places. Since we also installed many FastTrack rails and hooks we were glad to be able to do this planning at home (online) instead of in the aisle at the store. One bracket and shelf-end are near the doorway so we used a foam corner (for furniture/baby protection) and zip-ties to minimize head injury (this could be another Fast Track accessory). Another accessory could be stretchy cords for seismic restraint (to keep things on the shelf in case of earthquake).

My husband and I wanted to get things up off the garage floor, so bought the Rubbermaid wire shelves and brackets. Looks great, appears to be very heavy duty - but I find the design of them to be user UNFRIENDLY! I've been in retail for years and have worked with brackets a lot and these are the oddest ones ever. First of all - why are the supports OPEN on the top side? Isn't that where all the dirt and dust of the garage will collect? Secondly, there is no reason for the shelves to lock into the brackets like they do. A flip up at the lip of the support would keep them in place - not this complicated click, push, pull trick you have to do. I think the design could be improved to be more user friendly. Or if there is an easier way, you need to give better detailed instructions. Not sure I would buy these again if I had another option in the dark color. And - I'm a Rubbermaid stockholder, so I WANT to like your products!