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How To Choose A Wardrobe

How To Choose A Wardrobe

August 9, 2024 • Gemma

Buying a wardrobe is a big decision. It's not just a piece of furniture; it's a centrepiece that will catch your eye the moment you walk into your bedroom. So, getting it right is essential.

Whether you’re decorating your bedroom from scratch, your clothing collection is ever-expanding, or you need a small wardrobe for the spare room, follow our guide on choosing a wardrobe to find the perfect piece of furniture for your home.

What points to consider when choosing a wardrobe:

Space available in your bedroom
Type of wardrobes
Determine your storage needs
Match the style to your room
Material and finishes
Double check dimensions
Safety
Budget

Consider the space available in your room

First and foremost, assess the size of your bedroom and the available space. Do you have a large room that can fit a large wardrobe, or do you need something more compact?

Wardrobes can be difficult to move and fit between other pieces of furniture. Usually, there's only one spot in the bedroom where a wardrobe will fit perfectly, so it's important to choose wisely.

We recommend choosing the largest wardrobe that fits comfortably in your space to maximise storage. Tall wardrobes with extra shelves are great for storing seasonal items or linens you don't use daily.

Also, consider the furniture around your wardrobes. If placed in front of the bed, ensure you have enough space to open the doors. Easy access is important to avoid frustration as you'll use the wardrobes daily.

Double grey wardrobe in styled in bedroom

AVON 2 DOOR WARDROBE WITH OAK TOP

Type of wardrobes

Single wardrobes

Single wardrobes are perfect for smaller bedrooms to have concealed storage space without taking up too much space. They can also be used as an additional wardrobe in larger rooms or as storage in guest bedrooms.

2-door wardrobes

2-door wardrobes are a classic choice, offering traditional designs. They can come with a shelf at the top for extra storage space, particularly useful for jumpers or other seasonal items you might not need all year.

3-door wardrobes

3-door wardrobes offer a little more space, whether added hanging space or a section of shelves.

Wardrobes with drawers

Wardrobes with drawers are excellent options for that bit of added storage. Choose one drawer for tucking away t-shirts or jumpers, or find wardrobes with multiple drawers to maximise storage.

PHOENIX 2 DOOR & 3 DRAWER WARDROBE

Open wardrobes

If you need wardrobes for box bedrooms or are looking for a way to display clothes or outfits, open wardrobes are a great option. These come with a pole for hanging clothes, and some designs also include a drawer, so you still have some concealed storage.

Determine your storage needs

Do you need hanging space for suits or long dresses, or would you prefer some hanging space and drawers? Choose a wardrobe that meets the needs of your clothing.

Clothing type: Consider the types of clothes you own - long dresses, suits, shirts, trousers - to decide the necessary hanging space and shelf configuration.

Additional storage: Consider other items you might want to store, such as shoes, accessories, or bedding.

Current and future needs: Anticipate any future storage needs to ensure the wardrobe remains functional as your storage requirements grow.

Evaluate your wardrobe layout

Once you’ve determined what you’ll need to store in your wardrobe, you can decide the best way to store them.

Hanging rails: Ensure enough rail space for your clothes. Double rails can maximise space.

Shelves: Adjustable shelves offer flexibility for storing different items.

Drawers: Useful for smaller items like underwear, socks, and accessories.

Special compartments: Consider compartments for shoes, jewellery, or ties.

Inside of grey wardrobe showing layout with hanging rail, top shelf and side shelves.

AVON 3 DOOR WARDROBE WITH OAK TOP

Match the style to your room

Your wardrobe is a focal point in the room, so choosing a style that complements your decor is important. Whether you prefer modern or traditional designs, there are plenty of options to suit your taste.

Consider options that fit your current decor or timeless designs that will always fit in, even if you give your space a makeover. Small details, such as the handle material, can make a big difference to the room’s overall look. Choose materials that match other elements of your room, like light switches or fittings, for a cohesive aesthetic.

You can also choose furniture that matches other bedroom furniture, like chests of drawers, bedside tables and dressing tables.

Pine wardrobes, bedside table and chest of drawers in bedroom

ACADIA 2 DOOR 2 DRAWER PINE WARDROBE

Material and finishes

The material and finish you choose for your wardrobe can impact its functionality and durability.

Mirrors: Wardrobes with mirrors are practical, especially in smaller bedrooms where adding a separate mirror isn’t feasible. A mirrored wardrobe can also reflect light, making the room feel brighter. Just keep some glass cleaner handy for inevitable smudges.

High gloss finish: This finish will add a sleek, contemporary look to your bedroom space.

Matt finish: These ensure the wardrobe doesn’t stand out too much and blends with other furniture.

Double-check dimensions

Double-check the dimensions of the space where your wardrobe will go and the wardrobe itself. Measure multiple times to ensure it fits and there’s enough room to open the doors comfortably.

Also, check the size of the package and plan how you’ll get it from the front door to your bedroom. Measure hallways and staircases, especially if the wardrobe comes pre-assembled.

Determine if you prefer a ready-assembled wardrobe or a flat-pack version. Ready-assembled wardrobes save time but can be tricky to manoeuvre into place. Flat-pack wardrobes require assembly but are easier to transport.

PHOENIX 1 DOOR WARDROBE

Safety

As a tall, freestanding item, ensure you can securely fasten the wardrobe to the wall. This is particularly necessary if you have young children who might be tempted to climb on it.

Budget

Before you search, decide how much you'd like to spend. Prices can vary based on material, size, and brand.

Balance your total budget between cost and quality. Sometimes, spending more upfront can save money in the long run by avoiding frequent replacements.