masterclosetsolutions.com

DIY Closet Organizer Review

If you like 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 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.

Storage wise, this organizer does a nice job. Consumer reviews are very positive claiming that the system looks nice and offers good value for the price. Closetmaid's Shelftrack includes up to 15-feet of shelving space and 11-feet of hanging space for a price of about $110. The kit includes some nice simple features also and is especially versatile. For example, you can use the ShelfTrack system with most Closetmaid shelving, and similar to Rubbermaid's "Configuration" organizer, hangars slide from side to side without interuption.

Closetmaid's kit includes all of the hardware and shelving to satisfy an 8-foot closet. Cons: This organizer is not as sturdy as more expensive Brand, Elfa. Shelves are thinner, but fine for storing clothing. Pros: Affordable wall closet, reach in organizer with components that allow for easy closet configuration changes. Also, many consumers reviews claim that the system is easy to install.

If you are looking to further customize your Kit with accessories or for separate freestanding storage, Closetmaid makes both. Here is what's readily available:

~ ShelfTrack SuperSlide Closet Organizer , KIT
~ ShelfTrack 4-Drawer Kit (Add-on component)
Accessories include:
~ Fabric Drawers (Freestanding. Comes in several stylish colors)
~ Chrome Tie and Belt Rack
~ Wood Cube Organizers (A number of attractive cubicle configurations available. Great for small kid shoes and other wardrobe storage needs. Available in cherry, maple or white finish.)

See a complete selection of Closetmaid Organizers at Amazon.com.

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.