Time names 14 best closet systems for organization

Vanessa Nirode is a freelance writer who wrote a story for Time, the publishing company with a website called TimeStamped. In addition to being a freelance writer, she says she is a "pack rat" who is one of those people with "woefully unorganized and overstuffed closets."

That was the premise for a recent story in which she tested various closet systems, and came up a list of 14 closet systems in a variety of categories that can help people to become more organized.

Below is a list of the 14 Best Closet Systems to Help You Be More Organized in 2024. We've included links, a photo and what the author liked about the system, and what she didn't.

What Time likes:
Adjustable shelves
Made from strong epoxy-bonded steel
Great for small closets

What it doesn't:
Drawers and shelves must line up vertically because of the track mounts
The bottom line:
Study and durable metal closet system for small spaces with drawers, shelves, and one closet rod.

What Time likes::
Completely customizable
Lots of accessory options
Allows you to design your dream closet

What it doesn't:
Can end up being very expensive (while, arguably also worth it)

What Time likes::
Stackable modular units
Shoe specific storage included
Comes in white or taupe

What it doesn't:
Can take a while to put together

What Time likes:
Sophisticated look
Adjustable shelving
Great versatility

What it doesn't:
May require a professional for installation

What Time likes:
Free standing
Minimalist design
Can take with you to another home

What it doesn't:
Instructions are a bit vague

What Time likes:
A variety of wood colors and finishes available
Quality construction
Reputable company

What it doesn't:
Nothing really, though they can get expensive

What Time likes:
Comes with a mirror
Beautiful wood finish
Customizable and adjustable

What it doesn't:
Installation is easiest with two people (not that I’m not a team player…)

What Time likes:
Comes in seven colors and finish combinations
Quality materials
Full featured for a small system

What it doesn't:
No room for long hanging garments

What Time likes:
Includes a cabinet and drawers
Crisp white finish
Sturdy construction

What it doesn't:
Professional installation recommended

What Time likes:
Sturdy
Great value
Dark wood and black metal color combination

What it doesn't:
Assembly instructions can be a bit unclear
 

What Time likes:
Fits narrow spaces
Includes gliding shoe shelf
Comes in five colors
Adjustable

What it doesn't:
Only one shoe shelf

What Time likes:
Adjustable
Lots of shelf storage
Sturdy steel construction

What it doesn't:
Expensive
 

What Time likes:
Sturdy
Shelves can be cut to fit
Works well with other Dotted Line components
Comes in four different colors: White, Brown, Honey Blonde, and Weathered Gray

What it doesn't:
Instructions are lacking

What Time likes:
Adjustable shelves
Available in white or brown finish
Each tower is a freestanding cabinet

What it doesn't:
On the expensive side
 

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About the author
Larry Adams | Editor

Larry Adams is a Chicago-based writer and editor who writes about how things get done. A former wire service and community newspaper reporter, Larry is an award-winning writer with more than three decades of experience. In addition to writing about woodworking, he has covered science, metrology, metalworking, industrial design, quality control, imaging, Swiss and micromanufacturing . He was previously a Tabbie Award winner for his coverage of nano-based coatings technology for the automotive industry. Larry volunteers for the historic preservation group, the Kalo Foundation/Ianelli Studios, and the science-based group, Chicago Council on Science and Technology (C2ST).