How to Choose the Right Closet System
Organize your closet like a pro.
Whether you have a reach-in or a walk-in closet, closet systems can help you keep your clothes and accessories neatly organized. Our guide covers all you need to know about closet systems, including tips on choosing the right one for your closet. Read on to learn more.
What Is a Closet System?
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Closet systems provide an organized approach to storage and make sure that you can find each item easily. They are built into an existing closet and are made from a combination of rods, shelves, and drawers. These systems range from simple arrangements to custom-made designs and can be installed by yourself or by a professional. Because you purchase these systems pre-built or custom-made, it's easy to install add-ons to meet your specific storage needs, such as a tie rack or extra shoe storage.
Tip!
Want to learn how to organize your closet? Check out our guide Closet Organization Ideas in Two Easy Steps to find simple tips.
How to Choose a Closet System
1. Understand the Types of Closet Systems
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When choosing the right closet system for your home, there are six types of systems to consider. We've outlined each of the types below to help you choose the best option.
Reach-In Sets: Reach-in sets are designed for reach-in closets, which is a popular type of closet that you can “reach into” rather than walk into. These sets typically include a configuration of rods and shelves that can be stacked in a variety of ways to work for your closet.
Walk-In Sets: Walk-in sets are made to be installed inside walk-in closets. These sets include more pieces that allow you to customize the shelves, racks, and rods for even more storage space.
Corner Systems: Corner systems are made to fit corners, which helps you make the most of compact spaces or optimize your storage.
Closet Islands: These freestanding units are designed to be placed in the center of a walk-in closet or dressing room. The island features drawers or shelves to add even more storage .
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Closet systems come in a variety of sizes to suit the size of your existing closet. We've highlighted the most common sizes below but we recommend measuring your closet space to ensure whichever system you buy will work for you. Measure the width of the doorway, the height of the closet's interior, as well as the width and depth of the interior.
Reach-In: Most reach-in closets are 6' wide and 2' deep, so these closet systems are designed to fit neatly inside your current closet. Because you "reach into" rather than "walk into" these closets, these types of systems maximize the vertical space to create the most functional closet.
Small Walk-In: These closet systems are made to fit small walk-in closets that typically measure 4' wide and 4' deep, which is ideal for smaller bedrooms or a guest room.
Medium Walk-In: Medium-sized walk-in closets are typically 7' wide by 6' deep. These closet systems are spacious enough for ample hanging space and shelving.
Primary Walk-In: Walk-in closets built to accompany the primary bedroom are often the largest closets and measure 12' wide by 7' deep. These walk-in closets have plenty of space to create a closet system with separate spots for hanging clothes, installing cabinetry, or adding a closet island.
Tip!
For more information on walk-in closet sizes, check out our guide Walk-In Closet Sizes for the Wardrobe of Your Dreams.
3. Compare Materials
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Material is another key consideration when picking the right closet system for your home.
Manufactured Wood: Manufactured wood is an excellent option for achieving the look of wood at a more affordable price. These durable and long-lasting manufactured wood closet systems can add a polished look to your closet at any budget.
Solid Wood: Solid wood closet systems add a timeless appeal to your home. Closet systems made of solid wood are incredibly durable and versatile, which makes them a worthwhile investment.
Wire/Metal: Both durable and minimal, metal wire closet systems are another popular choice. They are easy to install and come in different varieties to suit your existing closet, such as wire shelving or metal freestanding closet systems.
Fabric: These closet systems often have a metal frame that supports the fabric cubbies or drawers. Fabric closet systems are a great way to add extra storage for folded clothing items.
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Closet systems come in two different installation methods: freestanding and wall-mounted.
Freestanding: Freestanding closet systems have an exterior frame that houses the shelves, rods, or drawers. Because these systems aren't installed directly into your closet walls, they are easier to install and to move from one spot to another – a perfect storage solution for renters. They can also be used outside of a closet, such as in a hallway or a laundry room. Freestanding systems are often heavier and sturdier than wall-mounted systems to accommodate the shelves, rods, and drawers that are attached to the same frame.
Wall-Mounted/Built-In: These closet systems are mounted to the wall or built into an existing closet. Though these systems tend to be more permanent and require installation, they offer more customizable options like adding specific types of storage (like shoe cubbies, removable bins, or sweater dividers).
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Upgrade your closet system and streamline your routine with additional features and add-ons that will simplify your life.
Popular Features
Adjustable Shelves: Make space for folded items, spare linens, or shoes with adjustable shelves.
Adjustable Width: If you have a non-standard closet size, a system with adjustable widths can make sure that the system fits neatly inside the designated space. Make sure to check the product descriptions to see if the closet system is self-adjusting or requires a saw to adjust the width.
Modular Closets: Modular closets allow you to arrange and rearrange the closet configuration with ease. The modular pieces ensure that you can move pieces seamlessly.
Soft-Close Drawers: Prevent excess noise with soft-close drawers. These drawers feature premium drawer slides that ensure the drawers close smoothly and silently.
Add-On Accessories
Doors-Included: Doors can help give your closet system a polished look and stow away any messy interiors.
Drawers-Included: Drawers are great for keeping your closet clutter-free and your clothes out of sight. They are ideal for storing small items, such as socks, accessories, or t-shirts.
Bins-Included: Bins are a helpful closet organization hack for storing small accessories. Closet systems that come with bins eliminate the guesswork of choosing the right bin size.
Shoe Storage-Included: Shoe storage adds additional functionality to your closet system for an ultra-organized space.
Assembly
While most closet systems require assembly, some arrive pre-assembled and ready for installation. Others come equipped for easy setup and don’t require tools for assembly. Larger or more complex closet systems may be best assembled by professionals, so we recommend opting for professional installation to ensure your new closet system is assembled for long-lasting durability.
