With a new closet system on the way, it’s time to prep your home. Learn how to properly prepare for a custom closet installation with this guide. These key steps make installation easier for you and your helpers!

Start With a Clean Slate: Decluttering 101

For any room renovation, you can’t install new things in a cluttered area. The first step toward a new closet is decluttering the old one. Instead of throwing all your items into another room, we encourage you to assess your belongings and determine what will go on in the new system.

For an easy transition, categorize your belongings as “keep, donate, or discard.” Items you keep include frequently used clothes and accessories. Sentimental possessions are also a part of this pile.

The “donate” section is for gently used or never worn apparel. Donate items you don’t like or that aren’t your size. This is better than tossing out perfectly fine clothes.

As the name suggests, the “discard” pile is for possessions in poor condition. For example, toss out shirts with holes, pants with stuck-on stains, and worn-out footwear.

After categorizing your belongings, relocate them to new spots. Of course, the “keep” pile needs temporary relocation (to a different room or storage closet). The “donate” pile goes to your local charity, and you toss out the last pile.

Keep your favorite and frequently used items in the new closet system once you install it. Additionally, a decluttered space makes room for new apparel and accessories.

Remove the Current Closet System

How can you install new hardware when you haven’t removed old features? You can’t. After removing clothes and accessories, it’s time to remove old hardware. Dismantle shelves, remove drawers, and get rid of other features.

Depending on your home, most closet features are built-in structures that professionals installed. If you’re unfamiliar with hardware removal, seek professional help. After all, you don’t want to damage walls or hit wiring.

Once you remove the hardware, wipe down the walls and baseboards and sweep the floor. Most likely, the closet will have dust and grime from old features. You want to get rid of debris to avoid dirtying the new hardware.

Make Desired Improvements

Prepare for a custom closet installation by making the desired improvements. This is the only time you’ll have an empty closet, so take time to make new changes. If you plan on painting the walls, do this at least two days before installation. That way, the paint will completely dry. Whether you choose a new color or refresh the old shade, consider a fresh coat as a “closet brightener.” It adds character to the space.

This is also a good time to install new floors, especially for walk-in or reach-in closets. Clean or replace flooring to achieve a fresh and modern appearance. It’s essential to clean the floors before installing new hardware, as some features hide flooring. Ideally, you don’t want shelves or islands to sit on top of dirt.

Since closets are fairly small, floor installation takes one to two days. Cleaning takes a short amount of time too. For the best results, make floor improvements a few days before the closet system installation.

Think About Your Aesthetic and Decor

One reason people get new closets is that the old one doesn’t fit their standards. Whether it’s too small or unattractive, there is something off about the wardrobe.

Fortunately, a new system means updated decor and revamped aesthetic. At this stage of prep, your closet is a clean canvas. So think of things you want inside the area. Designate a spot for a full-length mirror or install a closet chandelier.

You can also purchase items that match your walls and floor. Perhaps you have a painting or art piece that pairs with chestnut floors and a maroon wall.

Besides installing new hardware, this is one of the best parts of new systems. The design possibilities are endless!

Clear a Path for the New System

Closet installation is a multistep process. It’s important to consider the hardware’s path from your front door to your wardrobe. If you live in a multilevel home, make sure the stairways are clear. As you (or professionals) move hardware upstairs, you don’t want to trip over anything.

Making a clear pathway is essential even if you don’t have stairs. Clear out hallways to make a wide path for new pieces. The last thing you want is shelves and islands stuck in a narrow area.

As you transform your wardrobe, don’t forget about old hardware. If you don’t throw away old features before the new ones arrive, relocate them to a spare bedroom or closet. Ultimately, you don’t want anything to block the path of new closet features!

Designate the Work Zone

It’s best to designate a work zone before installation. Besides walk-in closets, there aren’t entire rooms dedicated to wardrobes. You need a marked space for tools, hardware, and other installation necessities. Create room for items and keep everything in place. This way, you avoid misplacing tools and different features.

If you have children or pets, keep them away from construction materials because sharp tools can injure them. If needed, block off the area completely.

Schedule Professionals

If applicable, schedule professionals to help with installation. Ideally, you want installers to come at a convenient time. That said, make sure your home is prepped and available. If you expect afternoon installation, your home must be ready that morning. Essentially, be ahead of schedule. Being prepared takes stress off you and the professionals.

The Wood Closet Design Difference

Depending on the room, some renovations are lengthy. At some points, you may think, “I could finish this faster than a professional.” Luckily, this is a reality with Wood Closet Designs.

Our closets are a fun DIY project for anyone! Building your closet should be a smooth and hassle-free experience, and that’s why our hardware is easy to install. We offer detailed instructions to help clients put together hardware.

However, we understand everyone isn’t a DIY guru. Don’t stress. We’ll find a qualified, insured professional to install your wardrobe.

Regardless of your expertise, you deserve a gorgeous closet that meets your standards.

Life After Installation

Preparing for closet installation is one thing, but caring for your closet is another responsibility. Take care of your wardrobe by cleaning hardware, decluttering the space, and evenly distributing items throughout the closet. Overcrowding drawers and hangers puts too much weight on the compartments, causing them to collapse. Take advantage of all the features and put things in the right place.

Don’t imagine a new closet when you can create one. Use our walk-in closet design tool to build an upgraded system. Our design team will bring your creation to life. Don’t skip this wonderful opportunity!