Wardrobe Buyers Guide: How to Choose the Right Wardrobe
A wardrobe is one of the biggest pieces of furniture in a bedroom, and one of the hardest to swap if you get it wrong. The right one fits the space, holds what you actually own and opens without a fight. This buyers guide takes you through the decisions in order: size, doors, interior layout, style and delivery.
1. Start with the space
Measure the width, height and depth of the wall you have in mind, then measure again. Note anything that gets in the way: skirting boards, sockets, light switches, radiators, window sills and sloping ceilings. Allow for the doors too. Hinged doors need clear floor space in front of the wardrobe, while sliding doors need none. If space is tight, read our guide to sliding door vs bi-fold door wardrobes.
Check the route as well. Measure doorways, landings and turns in the stairs, especially for wardrobes that arrive in large pieces.
2. Decide how many doors you need
- 1 or 2 doors: good for children's rooms, guest rooms and smaller adult wardrobes. Try the LPD Hoxton Black 2 Door Wardrobe or the LPD Stockholm Chevron 1 Door Wardrobe.
- 3 doors: usually a mix of hanging rail and shelves, which suits one adult's full wardrobe. The Vox Nature 3 Door Wardrobe in White & Oak Effect is one example.
- 4 doors or more: best for couples or a main bedroom, such as the Vox OMM 4 Door Wardrobe with Drawers, Shelves & LED Lighting.
Shop by size: 2 door, 3 door and 4 door wardrobes.
3. Plan the inside
Think about what you'll store, not just how much. Long dresses and coats need full-length hanging space. Shirts and jackets fit half-height rails, which leaves room below for shoes or boxes. Knitwear, T-shirts and jeans are often easier to find on shelves, and underwear and accessories belong in drawers.
A wardrobe with built-in drawers can save you buying a separate chest. Look at the SOLACE+CO Velmor Ribbed Double Wardrobe with Drawers Walnut or browse all wardrobes with drawers.
4. Make the most of awkward spaces
Corners are often wasted space. A corner wardrobe uses that space well and leaves the main walls free for the bed and drawers. See our corner wardrobes, including the Vox Spot Corner Wardrobe in Acacia & White. If a full wardrobe won't fit, an open clothes rail such as the Living & Home Bamboo Bedroom Garment Clothes Rack Natural 130cm gives you hanging space without the bulk.
5. Choose a style and finish
Match the wardrobe to the rest of the room rather than in isolation. Wood and wood-effect finishes look warm and work with most bedrooms. White and pale colours feel lighter in small rooms. Dark or painted finishes add drama in a larger space. If you want a matching set, look for a range that also includes a chest of drawers and bedside tables.
6. Wardrobes for kids
Children's wardrobes are usually lower, so children can reach their own clothes. Sturdy handles and soft edges help too. Whatever their size, always fix tall furniture to the wall with the anti-tip fittings supplied. Browse kids wardrobes and nursery wardrobes.
7. Delivery and assembly
Most wardrobes arrive flat-packed. Check the product page for delivery details, and give yourself time and space to build it. Large wardrobes are much easier with two people. Build it as close to its final position as you can, and stand it up carefully.
Frequently asked questions
How much hanging space do I need?
Count the clothes that must hang, such as shirts, dresses, coats and suits. Allow full-length hanging for long items, and use shelves or drawers for anything that can be folded.
What size wardrobe fits a small bedroom?
A one or two door wardrobe, or a sliding door design, usually works best. Measure the wall and the clear floor space in front of it before you choose.
Should a wardrobe be fixed to the wall?
Yes. Tall furniture should be fixed to the wall using the anti-tip fittings supplied. This is especially important in children's rooms.
Do your wardrobes come assembled?
Most are delivered flat-packed for home assembly. Each product page has the delivery and assembly details.