I got two of the shelves about 6 months ago and the middle shelf on both of them broke. For one of them, I guess I kind of understand because it had textbooks on it. However, the other one just had like 3-4 pairs of shoes. I followed the directions closely when putting the shelves together and I am not particularly happy that they have both met their demise so soon. I guess if you want to put something really really light on them (like bath towels) they would probably be fine. Otherwise, I am sure there are better shelves that cost less.