Do you have trouble using all the space in your closet? If so, it’s time to alter your space. After all, your closet should accommodate your lifestyle. Review these ways to make your closet more accessible and make the appropriate changes!

The Importance of Accessibility

Accessibility benefits all members of society, including people with limited mobility and disabilities. Accessible living lowers the demand for home care, senior services, and other related outlets. People can care for themselves and complete tasks on their own terms.

In terms of closets, accessibility is a topic that some architects overlook. They create models that fit people with unlimited mobility, which doesn’t work for everyone. Fortunately, modern furniture, hardware, and features can make closets more accessible.

Start With the Right System

Everyone deserves a functional wardrobe, and accessibility starts with the right closet system. Of course, space availability influences your options, but you can renovate the area. At Wood Closet Designs, we offer custom closet designs for single-wall, reach-in, and walk-in systems. Our features include hanger compartments, shelves, islands, and other essentials. For accessible wardrobes, we recommend eye-level or low-hanging features for easy access to items. However, use your discretion when you pick pieces for your closet.

Overview of Closet Systems

Achieve suitable storage space with the right closet. Here’s a quick overview of each system:

  • Single wall: The smallest closet system, suitable for individual storage space in narrow areas.
  • Reach-in: Offers space-saving features that use vertical space. However, you can install some eye-level pieces.
  • Walk-in: The largest closet option that uses vertical and horizontal storage. Great for eye-level closet islands!

Maintain a Navigable Ground

The problem with some walk-in closets is that they lack flow. Random furniture and hardware placements make it difficult for anyone to use their space. You can enhance your closet with navigable grounds that accommodate your lifestyle. For example, you may move your closet island to ensure all-around access to each side of the piece.

You can also alter your closet according to your style technique. Make apparel groups and keep similar garments together. For instance, group pants, jackets, and shirts in specific places. This way, you can efficiently select one item from each apparel group to create an outfit.

Lastly, avoid overcrowding the floor with too much furniture or decor. You don’t want to trip over items or limit access to certain spots. For example, a wheelchair can’t move between furniture that’s close together. Ultimately, make the space easier for you.

Remove or Alter the Closet Door

Removing or altering the door is a minor closet renovation that makes a huge difference. Some closets have tight doors that don’t accommodate wheelchairs. Also, some doors are heavy and are difficult for those with limited mobility. If you have an inaccessible door, alter your space! Some individuals prefer sliding barn doors or in-swing doors with thinner materials. This way, they can glide through the closet without heavy entrances. However, some people prefer no closet door for unlimited access to their wardrobe.

Install Closet Carousels

Installing closet carousels is another way to make your closet more accessible. Carousels maximize space and offer easy access to different items. The most common type of closet carousel is a rotating shoe rack. With this feature, you don’t have to reach deep inside your closet for specific footwear. With one spin, you’ll have the perfect shoes in arm’s reach. Additionally, closet carousels are great for accessories like bags, hats, sunglasses, and much more. You’ll retrieve the items you need without hassle!

Use Two Hanger Rods

Traditional hanger compartments offer an upper rod because they store clothes without dragging them on the ground. However, this storage model is inaccessible to some people. Use a two-hanger rod system to reach items without causing strain. If you’re a wheelchair user, the lower rod will sit 30 inches off the ground (at or below your eye level). Use the lower section for frequently worn clothes and the top for special occasion garments. When you need your special occasion garments, use a wardrobe lift to bring your clothes down to you.

Incorporate Eye-Level Furniture

Reducing strain is one of the main goals for accessible closets. Not everyone can reach up to grab clothes, so eye-level furniture is beneficial for user-friendly wardrobes. All you have to do is take garments off hangers or out of drawers without trouble. You can also install slide-out storage features for additional help.

Add a Wall Hamper

A wall hamper is an excellent feature inside closets because they conceal dirty clothes. You pull the hamper out to unveil a cloth laundry bag inside the compartment. Wall hampers increase accessibility because they reduce floor clutter or bulky laundry baskets. Don’t worry about piles of clothes blocking your way around the closet. Essentially, you will free up floor space and maintain order!

Consider Drawer Labels

A big part of closet organization is clear, concise storage. Ideally, you don’t want to play the “guessing game” when you look for clothes and accessories. If it helps, use drawer labels to identify apparel and other items. Furthermore, use removable adhesive labels to prevent the labels from ruining your furniture. This easy tip can save time in the morning and help you maintain an organized wardrobe. Just remember to place everything in the right compartment.

Use Drawer Organizers for Accessories

Drawer organizers are helpful for all closets because they keep small possessions in one place. Therefore, you should implement these features inside your accessory drawers. Easily arrange jewelry, cufflinks, ties, and other things in simple compartments. Luckily, some organizers slightly elevate so that you don’t have to reach deep inside drawers to reach items.

Keep a Hanger Retriever Pole Inside the Closet

It’s best to use vertical space to maximize your closet space. However, some people can’t reach up to grab clothes. Luckily, hanger retriever poles can grab clothes on top rods! Many poles extend your reach over four feet and help you easily retrieve garments. Hanger retriever poles aren’t intrusive, and many fit in the corner of your closet. The closet aid has a significant impact on your system! Plus, some manufacturers even offer poles that match your wardrobe hardware. This way, you can maintain your wardrobe’s aesthetic.

Functional closets are convenient for everyone. But sometimes, you must alter the space for proper accessibility. Upgrade your wardrobe with our helpful tips and create a user-friendly closet in no time!

Achieve optimal accessibility with new closet features or alterations. Look at these ways to make your closet more accessible for beneficial ideas.