When considering a master suite remodel, or making the most of a small bedroom, closets can be one of the most overlooked yet important part of your remodel. While it is helpful to understand how closet depth affects its utility and design, it is also important to understand the inefficiencies caused by an improperly designed closet. A properly designed closet can help increase organization and can add value to your home.
In this article, we will describe how to assess the standard closet depth and cover the recommendations that come with choosing that depth, cover a variety of design (and design do nots) tips, and provide guidelines on how to approach different types of closets (reach-in, walk-in). Let’s get going!
What Is the Standard Closet Depth?
The depth of a reach-in closet is formally indicated at 24 inches (61 cm), which is appropriate for adult-sized hangers with clothes hanging straight out, allowing clothes not to be jammed against the back wall or closet doors. In a smaller system, the minimum closet depth for hanging clothes is 22 inches, which is more appropriate for lighter clothes or a smaller person (child) clothing.
For walk-in closets, the industry standard is 36 inches deep, but most homeowners go with at least 48 to 60 inches deep to facilitate easy access while storing in multiple directions.
Reach-In vs. Walk-In Closets
Understanding the difference between closet types helps determine how deep your closet should be.
Reach-In Closets
Generally, they are found in areas such as hallways and smaller sleeping areas. They are typically 24 to 30 inches in depth with one rod and shelf. A reach-in closet with sliding doors could be an uncomplicated design that is both space-saving and functional.
Walk-In Closets
When space is available, a walk-in closet with built-in shelving will provide the most options for storing items. The minimum recommended width for walk-in closets is 6′, and the minimum depth associated with walk-in closets is around 36″, to allow walking. You can easily add shelving units; drawers; shoe racks; double-hang rods, etc. with good design.
Closet Design Tips for Remodeling
Closets are no longer just for storing clothes—they’re an extension of your room’s design. When planning your remodel, here are key elements to consider:
1. Optimize Vertical Space
When employing adjustable shelving and double rods, you’ll want to maximize your storage space. Using the full height of your closet will allow every space to be utilized and consider a full height closet system, allowing you to use the space near your ceiling and not let any space go to waste.
2. Use Custom Closet Organizers
If you are going to pay for closet organizers in a small space, you should pay for custom closet organizers to fully utilize what even the smallest closet can offer. Use modular systems with the ability to change in the future.
3. Choose the Right Doors
There are pros and cons to sliding doors, bi-fold doors and hinged doors. In a shallow closet, a sliding door saves floor space but poor access can only be made on a single side. Hinged doors provide full access on both sides, but need clearance to open; the bi-fold does too; the question is just how much clearance do you need.
Closet Depth for Different Storage Needs
Your closet’s function influences the depth you need.
Hanging Clothes
For standard adult hangers, you will want to plan for 24–inches. If using oversized coat hangers or bulky winter garments, adjust the depth to 26–28 inches.
Shoes and Accessories
Shoe racks normally require about 12 to 14-inches in depth. When designing a built-in shoe rack in a closet, you will want to ensure enough depth so you cannot see or have shoe protruding, which creates an unorganized appearance.
Closet With Drawers and Cabinets
What about drawers? Ensure your closet is deep enough to open drawers — usually about 28 inches is adequate at minimum. If you’re replacing a dresser in your design, consider a closet that comes with built-in drawers.
Closet Layouts That Work
Depending upon your available space, consider these closet layouts:
- Single-wall closet (ideal for small apartments)
- L-shaped walk-in closet
- U-shaped closet for maximum storage in larger spaces
All layouts should accommodate at least a 24–30- inch aisle to avoid a cramped experience.
Closet Depth in Unusual Spaces
Not every residence has the same measurements. For example, in attic spaces, under the stairs, or other unorthodox places:
- You might be able to design a corner closet for unorthodox areas.
- Look into shallow cabinetry and pull-out systems.
- Have at least 20–22 inches for hanging rails if you are not using standard sizes.
Closet Depth and Resale Value
Smart storage is highly important for the home buyers of today. If a closet feels small or poorly designed many home buyers will have little trouble being turned off by it and may even affect resale value. Having features like walk-in closets with custom shelving and drawers may be more alluring for traditional home buyers of today and even resale value.
If you are finishing up your renovations preparing for resale:
- Stick to industry standards for closet space (24″ for reach-in, 36″+ for walk-in)
- Use secure finishes and durable materials
- Focus on function more than fads
Closet Lighting Matters
Lighting can affect the experience in your closet. In considering lighting, some options include:
- Recessed lighting for walk-in closets
- LED strips or task lighting under shelves
- Closets with motion sensor lights for either efficacy or easy use
Good lighting aids in finding whatever you are looking for and enhances the visual appeal of your closet!
Closet Remodeling Mistakes to Avoid
Before we wrap things up, just a few things to consider:
- Not going deep enough (less than 22″)
- Having too many shelves (overcrowding)
- Not paying attention to door swing clearance
- Not thinking about ventilation (especially in walk-ins)
Putting in cheap materials for the closet interiors
Final Thoughts
Determining the correct depth for your closet is more than a measurement; it is the foundation for any useful storage solution. Knowing standard dimensions, and thinking about a few helpful design aspects, can help you to create a useful and visually pleasing space.
Whether your designing a reach-in, or a huge walk-in, the first step is planning. Use the guidelines above, incorporate custom closet solutions where it makes sense, and from safety perspective, do not forget to utilize as much as closet space as possible. Your future self—and your wardrobe—will be grateful!
