If one of your goals this year is to maintain a well-organized wardrobe, investing in one of the best closet systems can help optimize your existing storage space. These solutions typically offer a range of features including hanging rods, shelves, drawers and sometimes shoe racks, making it easy to keep all your clothing and accessories tidy and accessible. While there are different types of organizers available to suit various closet configurations, our top recommendation is the The Container Store Elfa Decor Reach-In Closet, renowned for its ample shelving, hanging space, roomy drawers and more.
The best closet systems offer a range of features including hanging rods, shelves, drawers and … [+] sometimes shoe racks, making it easy to keep all your clothing and accessories tidy and accessible.
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Selecting the ideal system for your requirements depends on factors such as your closet layout—whether it’s a reach-in or walk-in configuration—and whether you prefer freestanding models. Heather Aiello, owner of The Organized You and a home organization expert, advises, “Consider the types of items you own and how you prefer to access them—whether hanging or folded, for instance. Opt for a system with adjustable components that can adapt to your evolving needs and be reconfigured as necessary.” With these tips in mind, you can confidently explore the best closet systems listed below to enhance the organization of your home.
When it comes to closet systems, Elfa stands out as one of the most popular options, thanks to its customizable designs that blend style with durability. This specific organization system, tailored for 6-foot reach-in closets, is constructed from heavy-duty epoxy-bonded steel, available in seven finishes, with select options featuring real wood trim for an elevated aesthetic.
Equipped with ventilated shelving, four closet rods and two hanging mesh drawers, this reach-in closet also boasts two gliding shoe racks capable of accommodating both men’s and women’s footwear. Installation is simplified as it’s designed to be wall-mounted within your closet, with only the horizontal top track requiring mounting, making it relatively straightforward with the appropriate tools. Furthermore, its layout is adjustable, allowing for additional components to be added as required, thereby optimizing storage space efficiently.
Pros:
Sleek design with wood trim accents
Includes hanging drawers and shoe racks
Easy to install, adjust and reconfigure as needed
Cons:
Delivery surcharge for shipping
Dimensions: 96 x 13 x 78 inches | Type: Wall-mounted | Material: Vinyl-coated steel | Features: Multiple configurations, adjustable shelves
The ClosetMaid ShelfTrack System offers a cost-effective storage solution that can be tailored to your space’s requirements. Its adjustable-width design accommodates closets ranging from 5 to 8 feet, providing 132 inches of hanging space and 216 inches of shelf space, complete with a dedicated shoe shelf. Plus, the track design makes it easy to adjust the height of shelves in the future.
Crafted from vinyl-coated steel, this wire shelving system is environmentally conscious, with 90% of its metal sourced from recycled materials. All necessary installation hardware is included, although certain layouts may necessitate cutting the tracks or rods, requiring a hacksaw.
Pros:
Good value for a large closet system
Multiple installation configurations
Crafted from recycled materials
Cons:
Some cutting may be required for installation
Dimensions: 61 x 18.2 x 83.7 inches | Type: Freestanding | Material: Manufactured wood | Features: Drawers, adjustable shelving
If you require additional storage space beyond your closet (or lack a closet altogether), the Wade Logan Arlex offers a robust freestanding solution with ample room for clothing and accessories. Crafted from manufactured wood, this organizer spans just over 5 feet in width and is available in three finishes: bark gray, white or chocolate.
Equipped with five adjustable shelves and two hanging rods, this standalone closet provides generous space for shirts and various garments. However, it’s worth noting that the compartments may not accommodate long dresses due to height limitations. Additionally, three spacious drawers are included for storing undergarments and accessories, featuring smooth operation thanks to their ball-bearing slides.
Pros:
Sturdy freestanding design
Adjustable shelves and hanging rods
Three spacious drawers
Cons:
Complicated to assemble
No full-length hanging rods
Dimensions: 16.5 x 45 x 76.4 inches | Type: Freestanding | Material: Powder-coated steel | Features: Adjustable shelving
If you reside in an apartment, opting for a freestanding closet system like the Vipek V2 Garment Rack is often a prudent choice. This steel closet system eliminates the need for wall mounting, a significant consideration for safeguarding your security deposit. Moreover, its ease of disassembly facilitates hassle-free relocation when moving.
Although the Vipek V2 may not rank highest in aesthetic appeal among closet systems, it compensates with spaciousness, durability and flexibility. It features four wire shelves and three hanging rods, each capable of supporting up to 75 pounds, with adjustable shelf height to accommodate your preferences. Additionally, the rack’s top surface serves as an extra shelf, further enhancing its storage capacity.
Pros:
Inexpensive
Easy to assemble and disassemble
Adjustable shelving
Cons:
Dimensions: 72 x 12 x 120 inches | Type: Wall-mounted | Material: Solid wood | Features: Adjustable shelves, cut-to-size
While several closet systems are constructed from metal, those seeking a more traditional option for a reach-in closet might find the John Louis Home Simplicity Closet System appealing. Crafted from solid wood with an attractive honey maple finish, it exudes classic charm. Tailored for reach-in closets spanning 8 to 10 feet in width, this system incorporates six slatted shelves, two of which are adjustable, alongside three closet rods.
With ample space for hanging garments and folded items, the closet system offers versatility. Additionally, its wooden components can be trimmed to fit your closet dimensions if necessary.
For expansive closets, the Elfa Premium Walk-In system offers an optimal solution to maximize storage efficiency. Designed specifically for a 76 x 100 inch walk-in space, it can also be customized to accommodate various other dimensions. Crafted from epoxy-bonded steel, this system is affixed to your wall via a single horizontal track and features an array of components tailored to store diverse clothing and accessories.
Included in this setup are long- and short-hanging closet rods, smooth-gliding mesh drawers available in multiple depths, gliding shoe racks and adjustable shelving. Notably, the shelves boast exceptional durability, capable of supporting up to 100 pounds per foot, while allowing for effortless rearrangement of components to adapt to your evolving closet needs.
Pros:
Optimizes storage area in walk-ins
Only one track to mount
Includes drawers, shoe racks, and more
Cons:
More expensive than reach-in solutions
Dimensions: 127 x 15.2 x 84 inches | Type: Wall-mounted | Material: Manufactured wood | Features: Adjustable width and shelves, built-in drawers
Lacking space for a dresser in your bedroom? Consider the ClosetMaid Space Creations Closet System, which features three generously sized drawers for storing folded items conveniently within your closet. Suitable for reach-in closets spanning 4.5 to 10 feet in width, this system is crafted from manufactured wood and is available in either a white or brown finish.
Alongside its central drawers, this closet system boasts seven shelves and three hanging rods. The rods can be installed without the need for mounting into studs, simplifying the installation process. However, adjusting them to fit your closet dimensions may necessitate cutting them down, requiring the use of a hacksaw.
Pros:
Includes three soft-close drawers
Adjustable width design
Rods don’t need to be mounted into studs
Cons:
Some cutting may be required for installation
Dimensions: Varies based on design | Type: Built-in | Material: Laminated composite | Features: Varies based on design
For a fully personalized closet system, California Closets offers tailor-made storage solutions designed specifically for your home. With over 2,000 locations nationwide, the brand provides both virtual and in-person consultations, catering to custom systems for both reach-in and walk-in closets. Featuring four price tiers, from basic to luxury, you have the flexibility to select from a diverse array of design elements and finishes—such as accessory shelves, integrated lighting and molding/trim—to seamlessly blend with your space. While the cost exceeds that of pre-made closet systems, the process is entirely customized from inception to completion, inclusive of professional installation services.
While some closet systems offer only fixed configurations, the Hold Everything Essential Closet provides the flexibility to rearrange its components according to your preferences. This chic freestanding design, crafted from sturdy steel and wood, can be configured in various layouts and expanded to accommodate evolving needs.
This specific version of the closet features two cabinets with adjustable shelves, drawers and glass doors. Additionally, it includes multiple hanging rods and shelves that are easily movable. Moreover, the brand offers supplementary accessories, such as shoe shelves, that can be incorporated into the unit as desired.
Pros:
Stylish design with glass cabinets
Modular system can be reconfigured and/or expanded
Keeping your home clutter-free can be a challenge, especially with limited storage space. The Forbes Vetted team has conducted extensive research to identify the top organization systems for every home, covering a range of items from the best pantry organizers to the best bar carts and more.
In addition to our own research, we consulted with Heather Aiello, owner of The Organized You in Boston, to gain insights on selecting a closet system. Aiello shared key features she considers when evaluating closet organization systems, along with helpful tips for maintaining a tidy closet.
How We Chose The Best Closet Systems
To find the best closet systems on the market today, we extensively researched products from leading organization brands such as Elfa, ClosetMaid, Hold Everything and others. Our criteria included seeking products constructed from durable materials, particularly wood or metal, with generous weight capacities. We prioritized options that are user-friendly to install independently. Many of the chosen options boast adjustable features, empowering you to tailor the layout according to your specific requirements.
What To Look For In The Best Closet Systems
Size
Before deciding on a closet system, it’s essential to measure the width, depth and height of your current closet space, along with noting the width and positioning of the door(s). This groundwork will help you in identifying an organization system that fits seamlessly within your closet area. In cases where your closet dimensions are non-standard, opting for a system with an expandable width, like the ClosetMaid ShelfTrack Adjustable Closet Organizer, may be advantageous.
Installation
There are three primary types of closet systems: wall-mounted, freestanding and built-in. Wall-mounted units usually require installation into the studs within your closet, typically necessitating a power drill for setup. Conversely, freestanding units can stand independently, making them ideal for apartments or rental properties.
Lastly, built-in closet systems, such as the California Closets Custom Closet, are installed by professionals. While they offer a seamless appearance, they are more challenging to remove and cannot be relocated if you choose to move.
Material
Closet systems come in various materials such as wood, metal, plastic and MDF, each offering distinct advantages. According to Aiello, “Wood or wood composite provides a timeless and durable option with a diverse range of finishes to complement any decor. It’s robust and capable of supporting substantial weight.”
“Metal is another popular choice,” she adds. “It offers a sleek, modern aesthetic and boasts excellent durability and strength. Metal systems are often adjustable and can be lighter than wood, making them a versatile option.” Additionally, metal wire systems are generally more budget-friendly compared to wood.
Conversely, inexpensive plastic and MDF systems are less durable and prone to issues like cracking, warping, or breaking over time. They typically have a lower weight capacity overall.
Components
When evaluating different closet systems, it’s crucial to consider the types of clothing and accessories you’ll be storing. This consideration will guide you in selecting an option with the most suitable components. For example, if you own many hanging shirts, prioritizing a closet system with multiple hanging rods would be wise.
Additionally, you should take into account features such as adjustable shelving, drawers and specialized accessory storage. According to Aiello, “Adjustable shelves offer storage flexibility, allowing for the accommodation of items of various sizes. Drawers are also a valuable feature, providing a clean, dust-free environment for storing smaller items or clothing best kept folded.” These features enhance the functionality and organization of your closet system.
Who Has The Best Closet System?
One standout closet system available today is the Elfa System, offered at The Container Store. According to Aiello, “The Elfa System is renowned for its versatility and durability, offering accessory options like shoe pull-outs, valet rods, and jewelry trays.” This system allows for custom configurations tailored to fit your closet. Moreover, there are pre-designed systems like the Elfa Decor Reach-In Closet or Elfa Classic Platinum Walk-In Closet are designed to accommodate standard-size closets.
For those seeking a bespoke, professionally installed closet, Aiello suggests brands such as California Closets. “They provide custom solutions with a diverse range of materials, finishes, and accessories,” she notes. These brands offer tailored solutions to meet your specific needs and preferences.
