How to Install a Closet Organizer

For those besieged by clutter, closet organizers are a dream come true. The very picture of versatility, they have adjustable shelves, and you can usually choose from among several cabinet options, including drawers, shoe racks and sliding baskets. What's more, many are coated with melamine, which resists scratches and stains and is easy to clean. To install one yourself, follow these instructions:

Materials and Tools:

drill, bit and Phillips screw bit
4-foot level
putty knife and filler material
stud finder
tape measure
hacksaw
circular saw
file
closet organizer kit
wall cleat
safety glasses

Steps:

1. Remove everything from the closet, including the existing shelves.

2. Patch any holes with spackle or other appropriate filler.

3. Remove the doors from the closet.

4. Assemble the closet organizer per the manufacturer's instructions. Most organizers are assembled using cam locks and connecting bolts. Don't use a power screwdriver when tightening the cam locks, because you might overtighten and damage the connecting bolt.

5. Position the main unit in the closet and mark the location for a wall cleat, to which the main portion of the closet organizer will be attached. This will provide added stability and make installation easier.

6. Use the stud finder to locate and mark studs for the cleat. Transfer the stud measurements to the cleat, drill pilot holes, and attach the cleat to the wall with screws. (If no studs are available, you can use a toggle fastener. Pre-drill pilot holes in the cleat, hold the cleat to the wall and make reference marks from the holes. Drill holes in the wall, install toggle fasteners and screw the cleat to the fasteners.)

7. Hang the assembled main cabinet on the wall cleat, and secure it with screws or toggles or both.

8. Screw drawer glides into place in the cabinet (if applicable). Slide the drawers into the cabinet and secure the drawer fronts with the screws provided. Adjust the drawer fronts until they're even, and then attach the drawer hardware.

9. Place the level on top of the main cabinet and use it to determine the correct position for the side panel.

10. Use screws to secure the side panel to the wall.

11. Hold the top panel in place, mark the surface along the edge of the main unit, and cut the panel to size with a circular saw.

12. Install the support pins for the top panel, and then lay the panel on top of the pins.

13. Use a hacksaw to cut the clothes-hanging rod to size, and file off any burrs.

14. Attach the rod hardware and install the hanging rod.