How to Install Shelving in a Wardrobe: A DIY Guide for Maximum Storage

Ever opened your wardrobe only to be greeted by a mountain of clothes and shoes tumbling out? You're not alone. Many Australian homes suffer from inefficient wardrobe storage, but the good news is that installing custom shelving is a DIY project that can transform chaos into organisation. Think of it like building a custom garage for your clothes - with the right setup, everything has its place.

Planning Your Wardrobe Makeover

Before you grab your tools, take some time to plan. This is like mapping out your dream kitchen layout - get it right from the start and you'll thank yourself later.

• Measure your wardrobe's internal dimensions - width, depth, and height
• Decide what you're storing - shoes need different spacing than folded clothes
• Sketch a rough layout - where do you want shelves versus hanging space?

Gathering Your Tools and Materials

You don't need a tradie's full toolkit for this job. Here's what you'll need:

• Basic tools: drill, level, stud finder, measuring tape, pencil
• Shelf materials: wood, laminate, or wire shelving
• Supports: brackets, cleats (wood strips), or track systems
• Fasteners: screws and wall anchors

Pro tip: If you're using raw wood or MDF, consider sealing or painting your shelves before installation for easier cleaning and better durability.

Step-by-Step Installation Process

Now for the main event - let's get those shelves up!

• Find the studs using your stud finder and mark their positions
• Mark your shelf heights on the wardrobe walls using a level
• Install your chosen support system - brackets screwed into studs, cleats attached to walls, or track systems mounted vertically
• Cut your shelf boards to size if needed
• Place shelves onto supports and secure with screws if necessary

Remember: Shelves anchored to studs will hold significantly more weight than those just using wall anchors.

Choosing the Right Support System

Different support systems work better for different needs:

• Brackets - Great for most shelving, especially heavier loads
• Cleats - Perfect for custom shelves and maximum stability when secured on three sides
• Track systems - Ideal if you want adjustability and might reconfigure your storage later

Finishing Touches for a Professional Look

The little details make all the difference:

• Sand any rough edges for a smooth finish
• Consider adding shelf liners to protect your clothes
• Add LED strip lighting for better visibility
• Use storage bins and organisers to keep everything tidy

If you're replacing old shelving, take the time to patch and paint over any leftover holes for a clean, professional finish.

Final Takeaway: Your Wardrobe, Your Way

Installing custom shelving in your wardrobe is one of those satisfying DIY projects that delivers immediate results. You'll go from wrestling with messy piles to having everything organised and accessible. The best part? You've designed it specifically for your needs, so it works exactly how you want it to. Whether you're storing shoes, folded clothes, or accessories, custom shelving transforms your wardrobe from a storage nightmare into an organisational dream.