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4 Ideas for Safe and Simple DIY Closet Shelves

DIY Closet Shelves

Closet shelves are a great DIY project that can also boost your storage space and keep your closet organized. They’re cost-effective, customizable, and surprisingly easy to install. Whether you need more room for clothes, shoes, or other storage, adding your own shelves can make a huge difference. Plus, you get to add a personal touch, which is always fun.

In the sections below, we’ll go over four closet shelf ideas that are easy enough to tackle solo and still come out as intended. The right shelving can turn any closet into a tidy, efficient space!

Choosing Your DIY Closet Shelves

Before building your perfect closet shelf, you’ll want to make sure the style you go for is optimal for your closet and your needs. So, you’ll want to be sure about:

  • Your Shelving Needs: Start by understanding what you need to store. Are you looking to organize clothes, shoes, or accessories?
  • Closet Size: Consider the size and layout of your closet. Measure the dimensions carefully to determine how much space you have to work with and how you can best utilize it.
  • Budget and Tools: Think about your budget and the tools you already have or need to purchase. Some options might be more cost-effective and require fewer tools, while others might need a more significant investment in materials.
  • Skill Level: Some projects might require more advanced skills and tools, while others can be tackled with basic DIY knowledge. Choose a project that matches your comfort level to ensure an outcome you’re proud of and excited to use!
Floating shelves are great closet shelves and DIY options.

Floating Shelf

4 Ideas for Safe and Simple DIY Closet Shelves

Choosing the right type of shelving is crucial for both functionality and aesthetics. Here are four safe and simple DIY closet shelf ideas that will help you maximize your storage space and keep your closet organized.

Floating Shelves

Floating shelves are a stylish and functional choice, offering a modern, minimalist look while providing ample storage space.

Your basic materials will be things like wood, brackets, screws, wall anchors, a level, and a drill. Follow these steps:

1) Measure and Cut: Measure your closet space and cut the wood to the desired size.

2) Install Brackets: Use a level to mark where the brackets will go, then drill holes and secure the brackets to the wall.

3) Attach Shelves: Place the wood on the brackets and secure it with screws.

Safety Tips – Ensure shelves are securely anchored to the wall to prevent accidents. Use wall anchors for added stability.

Pros and Cons

  • Pros: Clean, modern look; customizable to fit any space.
  • Cons: Requires precise measuring and secure anchoring.
Wire shelving is common as a DIY, adjustable type of closet shelving.

Wire Closet Shelving

Adjustable Wire Shelving

Adjustable wire shelving offers versatility and ease of installation, making it a popular choice for closets that require flexible storage solutions. You’ll need wire shelving, brackets, screws, a level, and a drill. Here’s what to do:

1) Install Brackets: Mark the desired heights for the brackets, then drill holes and secure them to the wall.

2) Place Shelves: Adjust the wire shelves to the desired positions and secure them in place.

3) Double-Check: Ensure shelves are level and properly supported to handle the intended weight.

Pros and Cons

Adjustable wire shelving is flexible, easy to adjust, and affordable, making it an excellent choice for various storage needs. However, it has a limited weight capacity and an industrial look that may not suit all aesthetic preferences.

With the proper tools and experience, built-in shelves can be a great option

Builtin Shelves in Progress

Built-In Wooden Shelves

Built-in wooden shelves offer a customized solution that can maximize storage space while blending seamlessly with your closet’s design.

You’ll need nails, screws, brackets, a level, a saw, a drill. When you’re ready, carefully do the following:

1) Measure and Cut: Measure your closet dimensions and cut the wood to fit.

2) Assemble Shelves: Assemble the shelves and ensure they are level and sturdy.

3) Install Shelves: Secure the shelves in your closet using brackets or nails.

Make sure the shelves are properly anchored and level to prevent tipping!

Pros and Cons

Built-in wooden shelves provide a custom fit and are durable and aesthetically pleasing. However, they do require more advanced skills and tools to install.

Corner shelves can be DIY depending on the closet style you're going for.

Corner Shelves

Corner shelves are an excellent way to utilize often-overlooked space in your closet, providing storage without taking up much room.

You’ll need materials like corner brackets, wood, screws, a level, a saw, and a drill.

Step-by-Step Guide:

1) Measure and Cut: Measure the corner space and cut the wood to fit.

2) Install Brackets: Secure the corner brackets to the wall at the desired height.

3) Attach Shelves: Place the shelves on the brackets and secure them with screws.

Pros and Cons

Corner shelves make efficient use of space and are easy to install. However, they offer limited storage capacity and can be challenging to fit perfectly into some corner spaces.

Trendy Bookcase Shelves

One popular TikTok trend involves using Target bookcases to create stylish and functional DIY closet shelves. This method is affordable and easy, perfect for adding a personal touch to your closet. Here’s how to do it. Materials Needed:

  • Target bookcases (Threshold or Room Essentials)
  • Brackets or wall anchors
  • Drill and screws
  • Measuring tape
  • Level

Steps to Follow:

1) Choose Your Bookcases: Pick bookcases from Target that fit your closet dimensions. The Threshold and Room Essentials lines have various sizes and styles.

2) Measure and Plan: Measure your closet and decide where to place the bookcases. Plan the layout for optimal space use.

3) Assemble the Bookcases: Follow the assembly instructions. Make sure they are sturdy and well-put-together.

4) Secure the Bookcases: Place the bookcases in your closet. Use brackets or wall anchors to secure them for added stability, especially for heavier items.

5) Customize and Organize: Add bins, baskets, or decorative boxes to organize smaller items and enhance the look.

Pros and Cons

This option went viral for being so easy to assemble, cost-effective, and customizable. However, you may need to plan reinforcement for very heavy items.

Recommended Maintenance

Start by conducting regular inspections to check for any signs of wear or instability. If you notice any wobbling or looseness, tighten the screws and brackets immediately.

Cleaning the shelves regularly is also important to prevent dust and dirt buildup, which can affect both appearance and durability. Use a damp cloth and mild cleaner to wipe down the shelves, avoiding any harsh chemicals that could damage the material.

For wooden shelves, consider applying a protective finish every few years to keep the wood in good condition and prevent warping or cracking.

If you have adjustable wire shelving, make sure the shelves are still securely in place and haven’t shifted over time.

When to Call a Professional

If your closet has structural concerns or if you’re planning to store heavy items that require reinforced shelving, professional installation can ensure safety and durability.

Additionally, if you want highly customized or built-in shelving that involves complex carpentry, a professional can provide the expertise needed to achieve a polished, high-quality result. For those who lack the necessary tools or DIY experience, hiring a professional can save time and prevent potential mistakes.

Finally, if you encounter any issues during your DIY project that you’re unsure how to fix, a professional can help troubleshoot and correct problems, ensuring your shelves are both functional and safe.

Conclusion

Adding DIY closet shelves is a fantastic way to enhance your storage space and keep your closet organized. Whether you choose floating shelves, adjustable wire shelving, built-in wooden shelves, or corner shelves, each option offers unique benefits and can be tailored to fit your needs.

Remember to perform regular maintenance to keep your shelves in top condition, and don’t hesitate to call a professional if you need extra support. For expert advice and professional inspections, call Atkinson Inspection Services in Clermont, FL, and surrounding areas.