Fixed Mount Closet Organizer

How do you maximize a small closet? It’s just a matter of installing the best storage system for your space, your needs and your budget. Read on for our recommendations, suggestions of what to look for and ways to enhance your new closet system.

Best Small Closet Systems

The type of system you choose can vary – from a simple wire kit to a wood organizer with drawers. Our top three are:

• Wire systems like ClosetMaid’s adjustable ShelfTrack and its Fixed Mount systems
• Tower-based wood systems, such as ClosetMaid’s SuiteSymphony and Impressions
• A combination wood-and-wire system, ClosetMaid’s ShelfTrack Wood 4-ft. Kit

Wire Closet Systems

The most economical choice, wire closet systems are also the easiest to fit into a petite closet. Some have 12-inch-deep shelves, and other kits can be installed in a two-foot-wide space, so measure your area carefully and choose accordingly.

Note: Reach-in closets must be at least 30 inches deep to accommodate any closet system.

If your small closet has to serve multiple purposes or you expect its usage to change over time, consider an adaptable system that lets you move the shelving without breaking out the toolbox. ShelfTrack’s unique standards and bracket program gives you the freedom to adjust your setup as often as you want. You can also add accessories, like a shoe rack and a four-drawer kit, to take full advantage of your small closet.

A narrow closet can have multiple shelves and short-hang and long-hang space that adapts as the seasons change. Shop ShelfTrack.

For the budget-conscious who don’t anticipate rearranging their closets, a wire closet organizer like the Fixed Mount system may be the best solution. You can purchase some kits for under $100.

Wood Closet Systems

For a more upscale look in your small closet, try a wood system. ClosetMaid has several systems that use a tower as their primary structure, and many of these towers come in slender widths to fit into tight rooms.

Three hang rods and three top shelves complement a narrow tower to create a perfectly equipped closet. Buy this Impressions kit.

By going with a closet system that has a foot-wide tower, like ClosetMaid’s 12-inch expandable closet organizer or SuiteSymphony’s 12-inch starter kit, you can maximize hanging space. And you’re still capitalizing on the vertical space with a full-height tower. Put folded clothing, shoes, accessories or even decorative items on the shelves.

If you want the best of both worlds – shelf space and floor space – choose a hanging tower, such as this Style+ kit. Its hanging tower has two drawers and two shelves. The kit also contains two expandable hang rods.

Wood-and-Wire Closet System

Prefer a combination of wood and wire? Adjustable and attractive, the ShelfTrack Wood 4-ft. Kit hits the spot. Install it as is in a four-foot-wide closet. If you have a smaller closet, simply trim the shelves and rods with basic tools.

Fit eight feet of shelving and eight feet of hanging space in a four-foot closet. Shop this setup.

Small Closet System Accessories

To get use out of almost every inch of your small closet, supplement your new system with accessories.

Wire systems have coordinating baskets, hanging shelves and tie and belt racks that can be added without tools.

Add shoe storage on the floor of any type of closet system. Bring in more hanging and shelving space using one of ClosetMaid’s Maximizer units. Both styles hook onto existing hang rods, so they’re renter-friendly.

Small Closet System FAQs

Question: Do ClosetMaid closet kits come ready to install?

Answer: They do come with all the hardware you’ll need, but you may have to trim the shelves and hang rods to fit your closet.

Q: What measurements should I take of my small closet before ordering a closet system?

A: Calculate the footage from floor to ceiling and wall to wall. Also, make note of any unusual features, such as a sloped ceiling, windows and wall-mounted equipment.

Q: How small can my closet be and still accommodate a ClosetMaid system?

A: Your reach-in closet must measure at least 30 inches deep. Tower-based systems are between 82 and 83 inches in height, and you need to leave clearance for installation. Single-hang height should be 70 inches from the floor; double-hang height is 84 inches from the floor, with the lower rod 42 inches above the floor.