Organize Your Closet

Expert planning advice and step-by-step instructions for making every inch of storage count.

Reader's Digest Learn how to organize your closet.

If you find yourself rummaging in your closet every morning mumbling to yourself, “One of these days I’ve got to get organized,” then read on, because we’ve got a solution. For about the price of a dresser, you can install modular closet organizers that practically double your storage space and look great too. The units are constructed of particleboard with a durable Melamine coating. Although wire shelves are more economical, the modular systems offer several advantages. They look like a built-in unit, offer adjustable shelves and closet rods, and allow you to add drawers or shelves in the future.

Installing a modular closet system

is a great weekend project. The Melamine units we chose assemble easily with special locking hardware. If you’re familiar with basic leveling, drilling and sawing, you’ll have no problem assembling and installing the units in an average-sized closet in half a day. But don’t get too excited yet; first you have to measure and plan the closet, round up the parts, and prepare the old closet for the new shelves.

For this project, you’ll need a tape measure, a level, a No. 3 Phillips screwdriver, an electric drill with a No. 2 Phillips bit and 3/16-in. wood and
1/2-in. spade bits, a circular saw with a 140-tooth plywood blade and a hacksaw with a 24-tooth-per-inch blade. An electronic stud finder would be handy, but rapping on the wall with your knuckle or looking for nails in the baseboard are great low-tech methods.