How Deep Should Your Wardrobe Be?

A Practical Guide to Perfect Wardrobe Depth

When it comes to designing your bedroom, choosing the right wardrobe is a crucial decision. Not only does it need to look great, but it also has to be functional and fit seamlessly into your space. One of the most common questions people ask when designing their wardrobe is: how deep should my wardrobe be?

In this guide, we’ll explore the ideal wardrobe depth, taking into account your needs, available space, and how best to maximise your storage.

Why Wardrobe Depth Matters

The depth of your wardrobe affects both the aesthetics and functionality of your storage. Too shallow, and you’ll struggle to fit larger items. Too deep, and you risk wasting space, making it difficult to access your clothes.

Ultimately, the ideal depth ensures your wardrobe is easy to use, keeps your clothes well organised, and fits comfortably into your room.

Standard Wardrobe Depth

For most wardrobes, the standard depth is around 60cm (23.5 inches). This is often the recommended measurement because it accommodates the average clothing items such as jackets, shirts, and trousers.

However, the exact depth can depend on a number of factors, such as the type of items you want to store and how much space you have in your room. Choosing a made-to-measure wardrobe will ensure that you can store everything you need while fitting perfectly into your space. This is often a better option than choosing a standard-size wardrobe. 

Factors to Consider When Choosing Wardrobe Depth

Here are a few key considerations to help you decide how deep your wardrobe should be:

Clothing Type

If you plan to store bulkier items like winter coats, suit jackets, or dresses, you’ll need a deeper wardrobe. For these, the ideal depth may be 65-70cm to allow for adequate hanging space.

Room Size

The size of your room plays a significant role. If you’re working with limited space, you might want to opt for a wardrobe with a slightly shallower depth to avoid overcrowding the room.

Shelf Space

If you’re storing folded clothes or accessories, the depth may vary. For shelves and drawers, 40-50cm could be sufficient. However, if you’re including longer shelves or want to store larger items, a deeper wardrobe may be necessary.

Accessibility

Consider how deep you want the wardrobe to be based on how easily you need to access your items. A wardrobe that’s too deep may lead to forgotten or unreachable clothes at the back.

Customising Your Wardrobe Depth

When designing a wardrobe, it’s essential to remember that there’s no “one size fits all.” You can adjust the depth to better suit your space and needs. For example, some wardrobes are built with adjustable depth sections, allowing you to modify shelves or hanging rails to make the best use of the available space.

If you have a smaller room but want to maximise storage, opting for sliding wardrobe doors can save space compared to traditional hinged doors. The reduced door swing gives you extra room to play with when it comes to depth.

When to Choose a Shallow Wardrobe

A shallower wardrobe, around 45-50cm deep, can still work for many people. It’s a great option for smaller rooms or for storing only specific items like shoes. Shallow wardrobes are ideal for more compact designs, and they can be great for keeping your bedroom feeling spacious and airy.

When to Choose a Deeper Wardrobe

On the other hand, if you have the room and prefer to hang clothing, you may find that a deeper wardrobe of 65-75cm suits your needs better. Deep wardrobes offer more flexibility for storing clothes that require more hanging space, and they can help you maintain better organisation with additional shelves.

Finding the Right Depth for You

Ultimately, the best wardrobe depth depends on your available space and what you intend to store. A 60cm depth works well for many, but if you need more space for bulkier clothing, go deeper. If space is limited, you can still make a shallower wardrobe work effectively for your needs.

Before deciding, take time to measure your room and think about how you use your wardrobe. A well-thought-out design will not only provide a practical storage solution but will also create a beautiful, organised space in your home.

If you’re unsure about what depth will work best, why not get in touch with a design expert? A company like Sliding Robes Direct can offer tailored solutions and guide you through customising your wardrobe to fit both your space and lifestyle.