Choosing Prefab or Custom Closet Organizers

The biggest decision to make when investing in closet organizers is whether to choose prefab version or custom designs. A prefab closet organizer will be incredibly easy to find and can be purchased for as little as $20 from any major department store or building retailer. A prefab closet organizer is also typically straightforward to install, requiring minimal tools and a very limited knowledge of building. However, a prefab model might not be as durable as a custom version. A custom version is best for extremely large closets or any closet with an unusual shape. This is simply because a standard prefab organizer won't fit properly in the space or best utilize the available storage area. For those who have a particular item worth displaying such a shoe collection or a variety of suits, a custom organizer can also be a smart choice.

Material Choices for Closet Organizers

By definition, a closet organizer can be as simple as a few metal rods and as complex as a series of shelves and drawers that can be adjusted as needed. The materials that closet organizers are made from tend to remain the same, however, across the board. Prefab versions available for sale in stores are generally made from laminate particleboard or metal rods covered in a thin layer of plastic. The rods may be made from metal or from a vinyl composite. These materials are sufficient, particularly because they are rarely seen by anyone but the user. Keep in mind that some laminate particleboards, when used as shelves, can only hold a certain number of pounds. For sturdier support and heavier items, it may be worth upgrading to a different kind of material. Custom closet organizers may be made from hardwood, which is much sturdier, although laminate is also an option that can be attractive as well as more affordable.

What To Do Before Installation Begins

Before buying or ordering a closet organizer, it is important to work through what needs to be stored in the closet and determine what kind of shelves, rods and other items should be included. For example, a woman who regularly wears long dresses will want a large section of the closet to have a rod for hangers and nothing below the rod, which ensures that the dresses won't wrinkle. Some men may need only a small shelf for a few pairs of low shoes, but others will need significantly more space for taller boots. Digitally or just with a pencil and a piece of paper, design what the dream closet interior would look like based on the user's needs. This may require taking some measurements to determine what will fit and how best to utilize the space. When opting for a custom closet organizer, these details can be used exactly. Otherwise, the measurements and desired styles can be taken to a store, and buyers can pick out the prefab options that best fits with their preferred layout.

Additional Tasks to Complete at the Time of Installation

When installing a closet organizer, it is often the perfect time to tackle other smaller tasks revolving around the closet space. Since any existing shelving will be taken down, rods will be removed and the clothing and shoes will have to be temporarily taken out anyway, it makes sense to take advantage of the empty closet. Some of the smaller jobs that can be tackled during this time might include:

• Repainting the interior of the closet
• Installing lighting in the closet or replacing existing burnt-out bulbs
• Changing the flooring in the closet
• Replacing the door of the closet

Extra Features That Can Influence Total Project Cost

A standard closet organizer will include shelves and rods. Additional features can be included but will add to the total project cost. Examples of additional features might include motion-censored lighting, pullout or adjustable rods, shoe racks, scarf, belt or hat hooks, pullout drawers and matching baskets for smaller items and accessories.