Shelves can seem simple. They’re just a piece of wood or wire mesh hung on a wall to display or store our stuff. But when you really think about it, shelving is much more complex. How do you choose which type of material to use? What’s the best spacing between shelves? How do you cut the shelves to fit your closet? How do you install them? You’ll find helpful answers to all these questions and more below.

Steps to Install Shelves

• Choose between wood and wire shelves
• Plan the spacing between shelves
• Cut the shelves to fit, if necessary
• Install the shelves

What Shelving Material Should I Buy?

Before anything else, you have to choose which type of shelving works best for your storage needs.

Wire shelving is perfect for linen closets, pantries and garages because it’s ventilated and durable. It also costs less than wood alternatives. Plus, our ShelfTrack kits make adjusting your shelf heights easy.

Shop SuiteSymphony in Natural Gray.

Wood laminate shelving gives an upscale look to any closet or storage area. It’s solid, so you don’t have to worry about items tipping over or falling through. ClosetMaid wood laminate organization systems offer a variety of finishes to match your decor.

How Do I Space Out Shelves?

Figuring out the optimal spacing between your shelves can be tricky, but we have your quick guide.

Remember to always measure from the ceiling to calculate your shelf height.

For pantries, the shelf height will vary depending on what’s being stored. Canned goods generally need about 14 inches clearance, while you should allow 24 inches for small appliances.

SpaceCreations lets you adjust your shelf heights easily.

For bedroom closets or linen closets, devote 18 inches to the top shelf. It should be reserved for seasonal and bulky items like sweaters and blankets.

In your linen closet, install the second shelf 12 to 16 inches below the top shelf for your bath towels. You’ll only need about 10 inches of space for sheets and table linens.

In a bedroom closet, hanging clothes generally require 42 inches between shelves.

Want more help deciding on your shelf spacing? Consult one of our professional designers.

How Do I Cut Shelving?

While ClosetMaid sells wire and wood laminate kits in different configurations, you may still have to cut the shelves to fit your closet.

Don’t panic. We’re here to help you.

Wire Shelving

Believe it or not, wire shelving can be cut with hand tools you may already have. Follow these simple steps:

• Get a hacksaw, handsaw or 30-inch bolt cutters.
• Measure the width of your wall and subtract one inch. This will be the length of your shelf.
• Center your cuts in between the wires on the front lip of the shelf.
• Add end caps on the exposed rods to create a finished look.

Always measure twice before cutting your shelving.

For wood laminate shelving, the cutting process is different.

• Measure the length of shelf you need.
• Place a thick piece of painter’s tape along the edge to prevent any chipping or cracking.
• Use a power saw that has a new, narrow, fine-tooth blade. Cut one side of the shelf and then flip the shelf over to make your final cut.

Tip: Many home improvement stores will trim shelving for you, if you don’t have the equipment or simply want help.

How to Install Shelves

Installation hardware and instructions vary by shelving type and specific organization system. Consult the instructions included in your product for step-by-step guidance. Most of our products also come with all necessary hardware.

For tower-based wood laminate closet systems, the tower unit must be placed first. Top shelves will go in last, unless you’re adding doors and/or drawers to your tower unit.

Get more detailed installation instructions for your entire closet project on our website.

FAQs

Question: Where can I install ClosetMaid shelves?

Answer: They can be installed into drywall, concrete or a stud wall.

Q: What is ClosetMaid’s wire shelving made of?

A: Our wire shelving is vinyl-coated steel. It’s a minimum of 91 percent recycled content.

Q: Are your wood shelves solid wood?

A: ClosetMaid’s wood-look shelves are primarily made of an environmentally friendly combination of engineered wood, often referred to as MDF, or medium density fiberboard. All our wood-look shelves have a laminated finish.

Q: When should I install the top shelves of my closet?

A: They should be added at the same time as the hang rods.