Before you go out and buy a new wardrobe, read our
essential guide and ensure yours is every bit as stylish as
the clothes inside it!
1. Choose A Style
Fitted wardrobes:
The major benefit of having fitted wardrobes is that, assuming
you'll stay in your property for a long time, you will never have
to buy another wardrobe as long as you're living there. Better
still, you can also choose the exact configuration of rails,
drawers and other options to suit your particular needs.
Particularly beneficial to those who want a clutter-free life,
fitted wardrobes are the ideal choice for maximizing your storage
space and are suitable for any kind of bedroom.
Walk-in wardrobes:
The ultimate in luxury, a walk-in wardrobe is perfect if you
have the space. Walk-ins allow you to hang your clothes with room
to spare, and increased demand for them means they're easier to
come by than ever before. If you don't have room in your bedroom,
why not try converting a spare box room into a walk in wardrobe.
Walk-in wardrobes have long been associated with style and
sophistication, and can complement any kind of bedroom scheme. The
ability to tailor the design to suit your needs is a valuable
bonus. Many walk-in wardrobes are available with sliding doors to
enhance your available floor space. And if you don't have the space
for one in your bedroom, you could always look into converting a
box room into a made-to-measure walk-in wardrobe.
Freestanding:
The main benefit of a freestanding wardrobe is that, should you
choose to move, you could take it with you. Freestanding wardrobes
are ideal for those who find the idea of a wall of fitted units
claustrophobic, as they allow a more creative approach. If you
happen to have alcoves, for instance, you could look for wardrobes
that will fit neatly into this space. Don't fall into the trap of
buying inexpensive and poorly constructed fitted wardrobes - many
freestanding options offer far better quality than the readily
available MDF or chipboard. With many ranges, you can also choose
your configuration of hanging space, drawers and shelves.
Armoires:
Traditionally in French or Gustavian style, these are perfect
for a vintage-style bedroom. Armoires are usually available with
rails but more predominantly shelving, which makes them perfect for
storing jumpers and other clothing that needs folding rather than
hanging.
2. Rails and shelves
When choosing a wardrobe, one of the most important things to
consider is how many rails you will need and what height they
should be to accommodate your clothes. If you have lots of shirts,
make sure they can hang without being caught on the door hinges,
likewise if you have more trousers or long dresses, ensure the
garments won't drag on the floor. Some wardrobes can incorporate
drawers, so you may not need a separate chest of drawers - perfect
for small bedrooms.
3. Folding space
It's all well and good having a super-stylish wardrobe,
but it'll be no use if your clothes are being squashed, creased and
eventually ruined. Considering how best to store them could save
you a lot of money in the long run.
Jumpers and woollen cardigans are better off being folded rather
than hung. If you would prefer not to have them in drawers, invest
in some fabric hanging units, which can be fastened around your
wardrobe's hanging rail using Velcro. This storage solution is
flexible as it can be moved along the rail as desired, and folded
when not in use.
4. Wardrobe Accessories
Hangers:
There's little point investing in a great wardrobe if you don't
buy the correct hangers. Don't just rely on the wire ones from the
dry cleaners, as they're only supposed to be a temporary measure.
Instead, invest in some quality wooden hangers, choosing ones with
clips for trousers and skirts. For added protection for delicate
clothing that needs to be hung, opt for padded hangers, which will
prevent any dents.
Storage Boxes:
To avoid your wardrobe becoming over-crowded and crumpling your
clothes, choose storage boxes that can be used to store
out-of-season clothing. Make sure clothes have been freshly
laundered and folded carefully, with sheets of tissue paper in
between the clothes to protect them. A great tip is to then add a
piece of cedar wood - perfect for preventing moths.
TOP TIP! Give your wardrobe a clear out once every
six months. Be ruthless and throw away everything that doesn't fit
or that you haven't worn for the past six months. You can give them
to charity or hold a clothes-swapping party with
friends.
