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.
- Best affordable closet system: The Container Store Elfa Classic 4’ Reach-In Clothes Closet
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.
- Best walk-in closet system: The Container Store Preston Custom Spaces
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)
- Best modular closet system: ClosetMaid Modular Storage Closet System
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
- Best reach-in closet system: The Container Store Elfa Décor 8' Grey & Platinum Reach-In Closet
What Time likes:
Sophisticated look
Adjustable shelving
Great versatility
What it doesn't:
May require a professional for installation
- Best wire closet system: Amazon Basics Expandable Metal Storage System
What Time likes:
Free standing
Minimalist design
Can take with you to another home
What it doesn't:
Instructions are a bit vague
- Best wood closet systems: California Closets Custom Closet
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
- Best closet system for large spaces: The Container Store Elfa Décor 11’ Reach-In Closet
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…)
- Best closet system for small spaces: The Container Store Elfa Décor 4’ Drawer Front Closet Graphite & Birch
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
- Best freestanding closet system: Pottery Barn Hold Everything 8’ System
What Time likes:
Includes a cabinet and drawers
Crisp white finish
Sturdy construction
What it doesn't:
Professional installation recommended
- Best closet system for apartments: Tribesigns Corner Clothes Rack
What Time likes:
Sturdy
Great value
Dark wood and black metal color combination
What it doesn't:
Assembly instructions can be a bit unclear
- Best closet system for entryways: The Container Store Elfa Décor 2’ Entry Closet
What Time likes:
Fits narrow spaces
Includes gliding shoe shelf
Comes in five colors
Adjustable
What it doesn't:
Only one shoe shelf
- Best closet system for kids' rooms: The Container Store Elfa Classic 6’ Kid’s Closet
What Time likes:
Adjustable
Lots of shelf storage
Sturdy steel construction
What it doesn't:
Expensive
- Best closet system for corners: Dotted Line Grid 30” Closet System
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
Best closet system for shoe storage: Closet & Co. 96” Closet System
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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