Closet shelves are an essential part of any home, offering a convenient way to store and organize clothing, shoes, accessories, and other household items. Learning how to install shelves in a closet can help you make the most of your space while giving your closet a polished and functional look. While do-it-yourself closet shelving can be a fun and rewarding project, there are times when calling a professional ensures the best results. 

Here’s a step-by-step guide to building closet shelves and how to determine if it’s time to call in the experts:

1. Plan Your Closet Shelving Design

Before diving into the installation process, spend time planning the layout and purpose of your closet shelves. A well-thought-out design ensures you’re making the most of your space.

Steps to Plan Your Design:

1. Assess Your Needs: Identify the items you’ll store, such as folded clothing, shoes, handbags, or bins, and plan the shelves accordingly.
2. Measure the Closet Space: Use a tape measure to record the width, height, and depth of your closet. Note any obstructions, such as light fixtures or door frames.
3. Choose Materials: Popular options include wood for a traditional look, wire for ventilation, or laminate for easy cleaning.
4. Sketch Your Layout: Map out where each shelf will go. Include different heights and widths to accommodate a variety of items.

Pro Tip:

For a custom and seamless design, explore Renuity’s closet solutions, which offer tailored storage systems for any space.

2. Gather the Necessary Tools and Materials

Having the right tools and materials on hand ensures a smooth installation process. Here’s a checklist to guide you:

Tools:

• Drill and drill bits
• Level
• Stud finder
• Measuring tape
• Pencil
• Saw (to cut shelves to size)
• Screwdriver

Materials:

• Shelf boards (wood, laminate, or wire)
• Brackets, cleats, or a track system for support
• Screws and wall anchors
• Sandpaper or shelf liners for finishing

If you’re unsure which materials are best for your project, consult your local hardware store or research the pros and cons of each option.

3. Locate Studs and Mark Shelf Placement

Finding and using wall studs is crucial for ensuring your shelves are stable and can support the weight of stored items. Follow these steps:

1. Use a Stud Finder: Move the stud finder along the wall to locate studs, and mark their positions lightly with a pencil.
2. Decide Shelf Height: Measure and mark the height of each shelf on the wall. For example:
   • Lower shelves can store shoes or bins.
   • Mid-level shelves work well for folded clothes or daily essentials.
   • Upper shelves are ideal for infrequently used items.
3. Ensure Level Markings: Use a level to draw horizontal lines where the supports or brackets will be installed.

4. Install the Shelf Supports

The supports form the backbone of your shelving system. Depending on your design, you may use brackets, cleats, or a track system.

Installing Brackets:

1. Align the brackets with the stud markings.
2. Drill screws through the brackets into the studs.
3. If a stud isn’t available, use wall anchors for additional support.

Installing Cleats:

Cleats are wooden strips mounted to the wall to hold shelves securely.

1. Cut the cleats to the width of each shelf.
2. Attach the cleats along the marked lines using screws.
3. Ensure each cleat is level before securing it.

Using a Track System:

Track systems offer adjustable shelving and are great for closets that need flexibility.

1. Mount the vertical tracks to the wall at the desired locations.
2. Insert the brackets into the tracks at your preferred heights.

5. Attach and Secure the Shelves

With the supports in place, you’re ready to install the shelves themselves.

Steps:

1. Place the shelf boards on top of the brackets, cleats, or tracks.
2. Secure the shelves with screws if necessary to prevent shifting.
3. Sand the edges for a smooth finish, or apply shelf liners for additional protection.

6. Add Finishing Touches

Once the shelves are installed, you can enhance their functionality and appearance with a few finishing touches:

• Organizers and Bins: Use storage baskets or bins to group smaller items and reduce clutter.
• Lighting: Add LED strips or motion-sensor lights to brighten the space and make it easier to find items.
• Labels: If you’re storing multiple categories of items, labels can keep everything organized.

Tips for Success

• Double-Check Measurements: Measure twice before drilling to ensure accuracy.
• Start Simple: Begin with one shelf before installing the rest to confirm alignment.
• Test Weight Capacity: Place light items on the shelves first to check stability before adding heavier loads.

When to Call a Professional

While do-it-yourself closet shelving is a satisfying project, there are scenarios where professional help is the better choice. Here’s when you might need expert assistance:

Custom Designs

If you’re looking for a built-in system with features like drawers, shoe racks, or specialty shelving, professionals can create a design tailored to your specific needs and preferences.

Large or Complex Closets

Walk-in closets or spaces requiring intricate layouts may be challenging for DIYers. A professional can ensure everything fits perfectly and functions efficiently.

Structural Issues

If your walls have uneven surfaces, insufficient support, or other complications, a professional can address these issues safely and effectively.

Tight Deadlines

Installing shelves can be time-consuming, especially for larger projects. Hiring a professional ensures the work is completed quickly and with precision.

Advantages of Professional Installation

• Expertise: Professionals have the experience to handle complex installations and avoid common mistakes.
• Time-Saving: Instead of spending hours or days on a project, you can enjoy your new closet sooner.
• Seamless Finish: Custom systems installed by professionals often feature a polished look that’s hard to achieve with DIY methods.

DIY vs. Professional Installation: How to Decide

If you’re unsure whether to tackle the project yourself or hire a pro, consider these factors:

• Your Skill Level: Have you done similar projects before, and are you comfortable using power tools?
• The Project’s Complexity: A simple reach-in closet is easier to DIY than a multi-tiered walk-in design.
• Available Time: If you’re on a tight schedule, calling a professional can save you time and stress.

Conclusion

Knowing how to put shelves in a closet can save you money and provide a sense of accomplishment. With the right tools, careful planning, and attention to detail, do-it-yourself closet shelving is a manageable project for most homeowners. However, for complex designs or large-scale installations, calling a professional can ensure your closet meets your needs while looking polished and professional.

Whether you’re ready to tackle a DIY project or looking for expert assistance, creating an organized, functional closet is within reach. Visit Renuity Home for tailored storage solutions that elevate your space.

Francheska Arcas

As a content manager at Renuity, Francheska spent nearly two years helping homeowners discover the possibilities of transforming their spaces. Renuity is a leader in home remodeling, specializing in everything from windows and doors to bathrooms and home storage solutions, and she’s proud to be part of a team that prioritizes quality, innovation, and customer satisfaction. She graduated from Florida International University with a double major in International Business and Marketing, ranked among the top programs in the nation. Her passion for home improvement runs deep—since childhood, she’s been inspired by watching HGTV and seeing the magic of remodels come to life. Now, she channels that passion into connecting readers with ideas, tips, and solutions to create homes they love.