Few things are as disheartening as staring into a closet that simply doesn’t work. We’ve all experienced the frustration of poorly configured closets that hinder effective storage, essentially defeating the very purpose of a closet. The good news is that any closet, regardless of its current state, can be transformed into a highly functional storage haven. All it takes is a willingness to embark on a DIY closet makeover using an accessible closet system. Having successfully tackled this challenge seven times in our own home, we can assure you it’s much easier than it sounds!
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When most people hear “closet organization system,” they immediately envision a hefty price tag and a complicated installation process. However, a closet makeover doesn’t have to break the bank or require professional help! There’s a wide array of fantastic DIY closet systems available that can transform your closet from a disorganized mess into an effortlessly organized and efficient space. Our favorite options are particularly user-friendly for DIY enthusiasts, allowing you to design, purchase, and install them all on your own.
Over the years, we’ve taken on more than our fair share of closet makeovers, learning invaluable lessons along the way. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll share all our past closet transformations, detailing the specific systems we’ve used and wholeheartedly recommend. Get ready to be inspired to tackle your own closet challenges!
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Our Master Bedroom Closet With EasyClosets
Our previous home featured a compact walk-in closet in the primary bedroom. While the photos might suggest otherwise, it was on the smaller side, making every square inch incredibly valuable. Our goal was to maximize its potential without sacrificing aesthetics. After extensive research, we decided to integrate an EasyClosets system. This choice offered the luxurious feel of custom cabinetry and built-ins, but at a fraction of the cost, making it a smart investment for a primary suite.
The EasyClosets DIY closet system proved to be a dream to install, proceeding far more smoothly and quickly than we ever anticipated. We were particularly impressed by the meticulous detail in the EasyClosets instructions, which guided us through each step with clarity. The entire system cleverly relies on a robust steel rail that you securely install at the desired height. Attaching this foundational rail was straightforward: we accurately marked our wall studs and followed the directions precisely. A major bonus was that the drawers arrived fully assembled, saving significant time and effort during the setup process.
All in all, the EasyClosets installation took us approximately 6 to 7 hours from start to finish. We couldn’t have been happier with both the superior quality and enhanced functionality of the system. We enjoyed its benefits for over four years before moving, and we wholeheartedly recommend it for those seeking a high-end, organized look. While it was a more substantial investment, we found it justified for our primary bedroom closet, where home buyers often expect a polished, organized space. This cost consideration led us to explore other solutions for our children’s rooms and secondary closets, showcasing the diverse needs and budget considerations in home organization.
Our Linen Closet Makeover With Elfa
Our linen closet in our former home received a complete overhaul, transforming it into a beautifully organized and highly functional space. To add a delightful pop of color and visual interest, we installed removable wallpaper on the back wall, instantly elevating its aesthetic. Beyond the decor, we introduced several smart storage solutions, including generously sized bins that perfectly housed our sheets and towels. For more in-depth tips on maximizing your linen closet, be sure to check out my 7 simple tips for functional linen closet.
However, the absolute game-changer for that linen closet was the addition of this over-the-door Elfa storage system from The Container Store. It dramatically increased our storage capacity for smaller, often-misplaced items like sunscreen, batteries, and other toiletries that didn’t fit neatly on the shelves. This innovative solution truly maximized every available inch of space, providing easy access to essentials without cluttering the main shelving.
Our positive experience with the Elfa over-the-door storage was so profound that we decided to install similar units on our girls’ closet doors as well. The standout feature of the over-the-door Elfa storage is its incredibly simple installation process. You don’t need any specialized tools or complex hardware; it even comes with the necessary Allen wrench to secure everything. It’s truly a 5-minute DIY project that yields immense organizational benefits, transforming previously unused door space into valuable storage for accessories, small toys, and more.
Our 5 Closet Makeovers Using IKEA Closet Systems
IKEA is a treasure trove for affordable and customizable home organization, offering several popular DIY closet systems that cater to various needs and budgets:
- Pax System: Known for its wardrobe frames that can be customized with shelves, drawers, and hanging rods. It offers a more built-in look.
- Aurdal System: A modular system designed for open storage or behind doors, featuring shelves, clothes rails, and drawers.
- Elvarli System: A flexible, open storage system that can be wall-mounted or freestanding, ideal for walk-in closets or a minimalist aesthetic.
- Jonaxel System: A durable, lightweight metal system perfect for laundry rooms, bathrooms, or garages, offering practical storage solutions.
- Boaxel System: Our personal favorite, a highly versatile and budget-friendly modular system with shelves, clothes rails, and wire baskets, offering fantastic value.
While we did utilize some IKEA Pax units in my old home office/craft room to create a closet-like storage area, we’ve never actually installed it within a traditional closet space. Our experience with Pax was reasonably positive, but it didn’t quite capture our hearts enough for repeat use. We felt the IKEA Pax wardrobe system was somewhat overpriced for its perceived value, and the assembly process proved to be more challenging than expected. Furthermore, we noticed that the shelves tended to warp relatively quickly. While many DIY enthusiasts absolutely adore the IKEA Pax system, it didn’t leave a lasting impression on us.
The IKEA closet system that has truly won our hearts and that we’ve incorporated repeatedly into various spaces is what’s now known as the Boaxel system (which was previously known as Algot). We have installed this incredibly versatile system in a total of five different closet spaces throughout our home, plus an additional application in my home office for highly efficient craft room storage. Its appeal lies in its remarkable affordability, straightforward installation, and exceptional durability—it has held up beautifully for years without showing signs of wear. We estimate that the Boaxel system offers a similar price point to basic wire shelving systems found at hardware stores like Lowe’s or Home Depot, yet it provides a vastly superior aesthetic and user experience. It’s truly a fantastic value for anyone seeking practical and attractive organization.
Our Girls’ Closet Makeovers
When it came to organizing our daughters’ closets in our old home, the IKEA Boaxel closet system with its versatile drawers was our top choice. IKEA’s online planner is an invaluable tool, simplifying the design process by allowing you to input your exact closet dimensions and specific storage requirements. This intuitive planner helps you configure a personalized system with shelves, drawers, hanging rods, shoe storage, and even pegboard, ensuring every inch of space is optimized.
The total cost for each Boaxel system in our girls’ closets was approximately $300, and the installation for each only took a few hours. This represents an absolutely tremendous value, especially when you consider the dramatic increase in usable storage space. We not only created ample room for their clothes but also gained significant storage for toys and linens, making their rooms much tidier and more functional. The Boaxel system proved to be the perfect blend of affordability, ease of installation, and robust storage capacity, transforming chaotic closets into beautifully organized spaces that grew with our girls’ needs.
Our Coat Closet Makeover
Our enthusiasm for the IKEA Boaxel system, after seeing its success in our girls’ closets, led us to implement it in our notoriously messy coat closet. Prior to our coat closet makeover, this essential space suffered from a common organizational flaw: a single, inefficient clothes rod. While typical, this setup failed to meet the diverse storage demands of our active family. We envisioned a more dynamic space, requiring dedicated shelves for bags and baskets, alongside a lower rod designed for easy access by our children.
The Boaxel system allowed us to create a multi-tiered storage solution. We installed an upper rod for adult coats and a lower rod that was perfectly scaled for our girls, empowering them to hang their own jackets. The customizable shelving units provided ideal spots for bins, housing everything from hats and gloves to dog leashes and frequently used everyday essentials. This transformation turned our coat closet into a true workhorse, streamlining our daily routines and keeping entryway clutter at bay.
Another total game-changer we introduced to our coat closet was this high-capacity over-the-door shoe rack. We house the vast majority of our family’s shoes within our coat closet (and loved this rack so much, we brought it with us to our new home!). This particular rack is incredibly sturdy and efficiently accommodates a remarkable number of pairs. While it initially comes with adhesive stickers to prevent movement, these may eventually lose their grip. For a truly secure and long-lasting solution, we highly recommend attaching it to the middle of your door using a small screw and wire. It’s a very simple modification that provides exceptional stability and ensures your shoes stay neatly organized and accessible.
You can imagine the dramatic before-and-after from these examples! The ability to customize the height of rods and shelves to suit specific needs is what makes these systems truly shine. Our coat closet went from being a chaotic pile of jackets and shoes to an orderly, efficient hub for our family’s outerwear and footwear.
Our Guest Room Closet Makeover
It may come as a surprise, but our guest room closet makeover was the very project that ignited our long-standing affection for the IKEA Algot system (the predecessor to today’s Boaxel). Before its transformation, this closet served primarily as a disorganized dumping ground, a common fate for guest spaces. Our overarching goal was to infuse our entire guest room with more functional storage, and the closet was a prime target. By strategically installing this versatile closet system, we created designated areas for extra linens, spare pillows, and even all our gift wrapping supplies.
Even with all these essential items neatly stored, we meticulously planned the layout to ensure ample hanging rods remained accessible for guests to comfortably hang their clothes during their visits. This thoughtful design struck a perfect balance between practical home storage and welcoming hospitality. The system’s modularity allowed us to combine shelves for folded items with baskets for smaller accessories and rods for hanging garments, proving that even a “dumping ground” can be repurposed into a highly efficient and aesthetically pleasing space with the right DIY approach.
Our Laundry Room Closet Installation
You might find it unconventional to hear about a closet in our laundry room, but necessity truly is the mother of invention! Our laundry room initially lacked a closet, but it boasted a large, unused blank wall – a perfect canvas for creating additional storage. To address our pressing need for more organization, we ingeniously designed and installed a functional closet using the adaptable IKEA Boaxel system, complete with drawers. To maintain a clean and uncluttered aesthetic, we discreetly concealed this new storage unit behind elegant floor-to-ceiling curtains. This creative approach demonstrates a powerful principle: with a bit of ingenuity and a versatile system like Boaxel, you can effectively add a functional closet to virtually any room in your home, transforming wasted wall space into valuable storage.
IKEA Closet System in my Home Office/Craft Room
While this isn’t a traditional “closet” in the enclosed sense, we want to highlight the remarkable versatility of the IKEA Boaxel system for creating open-access, highly functional storage in any room. We initially installed this system in my old home office/craft room, and its success led us to replicate it in my current home office. It’s an ingenious solution for organizing all kinds of items, proving particularly brilliant for managing crafting and sewing supplies.
The system’s open design allows for easy visibility and access to materials, keeping creative projects flowing smoothly. Unfortunately, the solid white drawers that were an option with the older Algot system are no longer available. The current Boaxel system exclusively features wire mesh drawers, which are still incredibly functional and durable, offering excellent ventilation and visibility for stored items. Despite this minor change, the Boaxel system continues to be our go-to for creating efficient, customizable, and budget-friendly storage walls that adapt beautifully to changing needs in a home office or creative space.
So there you have it – a comprehensive tour through our numerous DIY closet makeovers! We sincerely hope you’ve found this detailed look at the various DIY closet systems we’ve personally used and loved to be incredibly helpful and inspiring. Our extensive experience has taught us that transforming a dysfunctional closet into an organized, efficient space is entirely achievable for any homeowner. Whether you’re dealing with a cramped walk-in, a cluttered linen closet, or a chaotic entryway, there’s a DIY solution out there waiting to be discovered.
While we’re not entirely sure when we’ll get around to tackling all the closets in our current home, we feel incredibly prepared thanks to the wealth of knowledge and practical skills gained from these past projects. The journey of transforming these spaces has not only enhanced our home’s functionality but also instilled a profound sense of accomplishment. We encourage you to embrace the challenge and discover the immense satisfaction of a perfectly organized closet!
Other Posts You Will Enjoy:
- All Closet Posts
- 7 Simple Tips for a Pretty and Functional Linen Closet + Inspiring Linen Closets
- Coat Closet Organization for Under $100
- How to Add a Closet to Any Room (Discover creative solutions for adding storage where none exists!)
- How to Organize Your Closet in 2 Hours or Less
Wondering how I approach transforming rooms and spaces in our home with confidence and ease? Check out Designer in a Binder® – your ultimate guide to decorating like a pro, designed for every DIY homeowner.
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