Put an End to Closet Clutter

by Gene and Katie Hamilton

A well-designed closet system easily doubles storage space, whether it’s a bedroom closet, a linen closet, or a hall closet for coats and boots. Many typical clothes closets have one pole and one shelf—not exactly the most efficient use of the space. A better choice is a coated-wire shelving system with either permanent or adjustable shelves that range in widths of 12, 16, and 20 inches.

Permanent shelving systems are installed with wall support brackets and clips; those with adjustable shelves hang on vertical wall standards so they can be moved and reconfigured when storage needs change. Both types of systems are designed for do-it-yourselfers, so installing them has never been easier, even for the not-so-handy homeowner.

The systems are sold as individual pieces and as pre-packaged kits to fit standard-size closets. For example, a typical 6-foot-wide closet system costs about $50; for an 8-foot-wide closet, it’s around $100. An assortment of accessories made of wire or canvas for storing specialty items range from $5 to $20. These include shoe racks, hooks for belts and scarves, and various sizes of hanging baskets and organizers for sweaters or purses.

Measure the closet and make a rough sketch with the dimensions to find a kit that will fit your closet, or plan a custom layout using the individual components. Go to a home center or hardware store, where the systems are sold, and pick up a closet system brochure or project planner. Most manufacturers provide a graph paper planner with suggestions for various designs to fit different-size closets and provide installation instructions and guidelines. Ask a salesperson for help if you have questions.

You also can design your closet on the Internet using online tools at websites such as www.closetmaid.com/AP, www.millspride.com, or www.leerowan.com. Find their “closet design” directions and type in your dimensions. The visualization tool creates a design layout maximizing the space and generates a shopping list of all the components needed. Print it out and you’re ready to go.

Preparing for installation is the most time-intensive part of the project. Empty the closet and find a place to store your belongings while you decide what to keep, what to pitch, and what to donate to a charity. When the closet is empty, remove the old shelving and rod with a prybar and hammer, then patch any holes in the wall with wallboard compound. While the closet is empty, clean the floor, dust the walls, and give the walls and ceiling a coat of paint, if needed.

Follow the manufacturer’s directions for installing the system. You’ll need a measuring tape, pencil, studfinder, drill, hammer, screwdriver, level, and hacksaw to cut the shelving, if required. The project takes a few hours, but every time you open the closet door, you’ll see it was time well spent.

Gene and Katie Hamilton are the authors of 14 home improvement books, including the latest, Plumbing for Dummies.

first appeared: 7/13/2003