The first step in constructing your custom wardrobe closet is selecting the right materials. There are a few different options, including plywood, MDF wood, or solid wood.
Melamine is a popular choice among custom closet manufacturers. It’s a thermally fused resin that is incredibly strong and durable. It’s also stain-resistant and very cost-effective.
Melamine
One of the first decisions you will have to make when designing your custom closet is what material to use. While you can choose from melamine, wood, or wire closet organizers (the type often found at home improvement stores for do-it-yourself homeowners), each has its own benefits and drawbacks.
Melamine is a popular choice for custom closets because it is the most durable option available and comes in a range of styles. It is constructed of particleboard or medium density fiberboard with a resin and paper finish that mimics natural wood grains. Because of this, it is available in a variety of colors and textures that can match any aesthetic.
Unlike wood, which can become splintery over time, melamine is sag-proof and able to withstand a lot of weight. It is also moisture-resistant, which makes it ideal for closets that will be used in humid environments or located next to the bathroom.
The only major drawback of melamine is that it is susceptible to scratches and can chip, especially when exposed to a lot of force. However, it is easy to prevent this by being vigilant about avoiding sharp objects that could scratch the surface and taking care when moving melamine components around. Melamine is an excellent choice for closets that will not be subjected to heavy usage and for those who are concerned about the environmental impact of using wood.
Wood
If you love the classic look of wood, or your home already has wooden built-ins, natural wood is a great option for your custom wardrobe closet. However, solid wood can be expensive and may require a bit more maintenance than Melamine.
Melamine is a favorite among many homeowners as it’s durable, sag-proof and lightweight. It’s made by bonding resin-saturated paper sheets onto particleboard, and it comes with a wide range of styles to suit any taste. It is also nontoxic and water-resistant, which means it’s safe for your children and pets. Additionally, it’s shatter-proof and scratch-resistant.
Other durable materials include metal and wrought iron, which are both sturdy options for custom closet shelving. Both metal and wrought iron can be molded into various shapes, which gives you the ability to use your wardrobe closet’s space as efficiently as possible. For example, you can utilize pull-out accessories such as a valet rod or belt rack to keep your favorite pieces of clothing easily accessible. You can even install multiple rods at varying heights to take advantage of unused corner space. For added functionality, you can incorporate drawers and cubbies to store items in a multifunctional way. You can even add sliding doors to your closet, which can help save you space by eliminating the need for swinging doors.
Staining
Many homeowners don’t use their closets to the fullest potential. Most closets are festooned with an awkwardly placed wire rack or a single hanging rod. However, a custom wardrobe closet can help you get the most out of your home’s storage space. To start, you’ll need to sketch out a design on graph paper or using an online design tool to create a scale drawing of your closet space. This will allow you to work out a plan for your new custom closet system and identify any structural elements that you may need to work around, such as doors or windows.
You’ll also need to decide what material to use for your custom closet. Melamine is a popular choice because it’s engineered for strength, doesn’t warp like traditional plywood, and is available in a range of colors and finishes to suit your personal style. It’s even moisture-resistant and mold-proof, making it an excellent option for custom closets.
Wood, on the other hand, is a great choice for those who love the look and feel of wood in their home. It is a strong and durable material, and wood-infused products like cedar are great at preventing pests such as moths and crickets. It’s also easier to match wood materials with existing wooden built-ins in your home.
