My Experience With Building Closet Shelves
When I moved into my new apartment, one of the first things I wanted to do was build custom closet shelves. I wanted to make the most of the space and have a place for everything. But before I started, I had to decide on the best wood to use.
Best Wood To Build Closet Shelves
After researching and consulting with experts, I found that the best wood to use for closet shelves is either pine or cedar. Both of these types of wood are affordable, easy to work with, and have a pleasant scent.
Pine
Pine is a popular choice for closet shelves because it is readily available and affordable. It is also easy to work with and can be painted or stained to match any decor. Pine is durable and can withstand the weight of clothing and other items.
Cedar
Cedar is another popular choice for closet shelves because it has a natural resistance to pests and moisture. It also has a pleasant scent that helps to repel moths and other insects. Cedar is more expensive than pine, but it is worth the investment for its durability and natural insect-repelling properties.
Step-by-Step Guide for Building Closet Shelves
- Measure the closet space and determine the dimensions of the shelves.
- Choose the type of wood you want to use (pine or cedar).
- Cut the wood to the desired dimensions using a saw.
- Sand the edges of the wood to ensure a smooth finish.
- Stain or paint the wood to match your decor (optional).
- Install the shelves using brackets or a support system.
- Organize your clothing and other items on the shelves.
Top 10 Tips and Ideas for Building Closet Shelves
- Use adjustable shelves to make it easier to organize your clothing and other items.
- Install a hanging rod for clothes that need to be hung.
- Add hooks or baskets for smaller items like scarves and belts.
- Use clear storage boxes to keep items visible and organized.
- Label the shelves to make it easier to find what you need.
- Add lighting to make it easier to see your clothing and other items.
- Use a shoe rack to keep your shoes organized and easily accessible.
- Install a mirror to make it easier to get dressed in the morning.
- Use a closet organizer system to maximize your space.
- Consider adding drawers for additional storage.
Pros and Cons of Using Pine and Cedar for Closet Shelves
Pine
Pros:
- Affordable
- Easy to work with
- Durable
- Can be painted or stained to match any decor
Cons:
- Not as resistant to pests and moisture as cedar
Cedar
Pros:
- Naturally resistant to pests and moisture
- Pleasant scent
- Durable
Cons:
- More expensive than pine
- Can be more difficult to work with
My Personal Review and Suggestion
After building my own closet shelves using pine, I am extremely happy with the results. The shelves are sturdy and can hold all of my clothing and other items without any issues. I chose to paint the shelves white to match the rest of my decor, and they look great.
If you are looking for an affordable and easy-to-work-with option, I would definitely recommend using pine for your closet shelves. However, if you have the budget and want a natural insect-repelling option, cedar is a great choice.
Question & Answer and FAQs
- Q: Can I use other types of wood for closet shelves?
- A: Yes, you can use other types of wood for closet shelves. However, pine and cedar are the most popular choices because of their affordability and durability.
- Q: Do I need to use brackets to install my closet shelves?
- A: No, you don’t necessarily need to use brackets. There are other support systems available, such as track systems and wire shelving, that can be used instead.
- Q: How do I clean and maintain my closet shelves?
- A: To clean your closet shelves, simply wipe them down with a damp cloth. To maintain them, make sure to avoid placing heavy items on them and clean up any spills or messes as soon as possible.