If you're the type of person who likes to read a review or two before
buying, Consumer Report's Magazine did a comparison of Do-it-Yourself
Closet Organizers, marketed by major companies. What did the reviewers
say about DIY organizers? Not a lot of good. But, there are 2-brands
they liked: Rubbermaid and Elfa Organizers. In
fact, these kits scored on par with professionally installed systems
like, California Closets Classic System, costing over $1300.
Read the thumbs-up and thumbs-down review comparisons from CR below;
but don't let that stop you from looking into a few other DIY closet
system brands that are popular in many American bedroom closets. Two
worth considering are: John Louis Closets (affordable, 100% wood
closet organizers) and Closetmaid; both are reviewed below, and
can be bought at Amazon.com for the best pricing.
Reviews from Consumer Reports Magazine:
DIY
Closet Organizers - What they Liked:
- 1. You can find good design ideas and advice on websites maintained
by:
California Closets
Sauder
ClosetMaid
The Schulte
- 2. Rubbermaid Organizers

Rubbermaid scored highest among self install closet systems due to
its ease of assembly and quality of construction. Rubbermaid's closet
system eliminates the need for you to measure and cut shelf supports
by instead using convenient telescoping rails and shelves. Learn
more about Rubbermaid Closet Organizers.
- 3. Elfa Ventilated Shelves
Elfa closet shelving also recieved very good reviews. This product,
which is available at the Container Store is available in both particle
board and wire. To have shelves and brackets cut to size, the Container
Store includes free cutting: you supply them with your closet dimension
and they cut your components; saving you time and the potential
for mistake.
DIY
Closet Organizers - What they Didn't Like:
- 1. California Closets diy closet organizers had components "that
didn't line up and drawers that stuck or fell off their tracks."
- 2. Confusing or inadequate instructions were provided in systems
sold by:
Craftsman
Closetmaid
Ikea
- 3. Missing or broken parts were found in closet organizer systems
from:
Ikea
Closetmaid
Mill's Pride
Schulte
- 4. No design help is offered on websites for closet products from:
Ikea
Craftsman
The Stanley
2-
Other Popular Self Install Closet Systems:
1. Closetmaid
Closetmaid's self install wire organizer kit, "ShelfTrack,"
is an adjustable 5 to 8 foot organizer and is good for larger reach
in closets. This closet system, officially called ClosetMaid ShelfTrack
8-In-1 Closet Organizer Kit, offers eight different configurations to
meet your needs. Read: Closetmaid Organizer
Review and learn more!
2. John Louis Closets
John Louis Closet systems are an excellent choice if you are looking
to buy an affordable, DIY, wood closet system. This brand is extremely
well priced and delivers 100% solid wood.
For the best price, go with a "Standard" John Louis Closet
Shelving Kit, designed for reach in closets or small walk in closets.
Shelf width is 12" as compared with the "Deluxe" Kit
which is 16" and almost 2X the price.
The Deluxe kit is designed to be used in a walk in closet. Depending
upon your budget and needs, either type is available in either Honey
Maple or Red Mahogany. Both kits fit closets up to 10-feet long and
are adjustable.
Here is what a Standard John Louis Closet System includes: 6 shelves,
18 feet of hanging space, attractive satin nickel finish hardware. Here
is what a Deluxe John Lewis Closet System for walk in includes: 6 different
shelves (not including storage space on top of unit), three hanging
bars, one 6-foot adjustable shelf tower, satin-nickel hardware.
See a complete selection of John Louis Closets at Amazon.com.