DIY Closet Organizer Review


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.