How To Fit Sliding Wardrobe Doors
A Complete Step-by-Step Guide
Sliding wardrobe doors are one of the most practical and stylish ways to maximise space in the home. They create a sleek finish, save space in smaller rooms, and bring a modern touch to bedrooms, hallways, and dressing areas. With the proper preparation, fitting sliding doors is a project many homeowners can achieve themselves.
This guide takes you through each step of the installation process, highlighting the tools you’ll need, how to measure accurately, and how to ensure your sliding doors operate smoothly. It also shows how choosing the right sliding wardrobe kit or opting for a made-to-measure design ensures the perfect fit.
Tools and Materials You Will Need
Before you begin, make sure you have everything ready. A standard toolkit is usually enough:
- Tape measure
- Spirit level
- Drill and screwdriver
- Pencil and notepad
- Protective gloves and goggles (safety first!)
For installation, you’ll also need a sliding wardrobe kit. These include the doors, tracks, and fittings required for a complete installation. If you have not purchased yours yet, explore our sliding wardrobe door kits for a full range of designs, sizes, and finishes.
Step 1: Measure Your Space
Accurate measurement is the key to a smooth installation. Measure the height and width of the wardrobe opening at multiple points. Walls and floors are not always level, so taking more than one measurement helps avoid costly errors.
- Always measure from floor to ceiling.
- Avoid rounding your measurements.
- Note down any uneven areas that may affect installation.
For rooms with unusual layouts, our made-to-measure sliding wardrobes provide a custom solution that guarantees a perfect fit.
Step 2: Prepare the Area
Clear the installation space before you start. Remove obstacles such as furniture, wires, or fittings that could get in the way.
Check your flooring type. Sliding wardrobe kits can be fitted on carpet, laminate, or hardwood floors, but each requires careful preparation to ensure the bottom track sits securely. For uneven walls or surfaces, accessories such as wall liners can be used to create a flat and stable base.
Step 3: Install the Bottom Track
The bottom track carries the weight of the doors and must be level.
- Position the track carefully in line with your measurements.
- Use a spirit level to make sure it is perfectly straight.
- Fix it securely to the floor, taking care not to damage laminate or hardwood surfaces.
Step 4: Fit the Top Track
The top track holds the doors in place and ensures they glide smoothly.
- Position the top track directly above the bottom track.
- Check alignment with a spirit level.
- Secure it to the ceiling or top support so the doors run evenly.
Step 5: Hang the Sliding Doors
Once the tracks are fixed, the doors can be installed.
- Lift each door carefully into position.
- Place the wheels in the bottom track and tilt the top into the upper track.
- Handle mirrored or glass panels with care to avoid damage.
Test the movement of the doors to ensure they slide smoothly before making adjustments.
Step 6: Adjust and Align
Most sliding wardrobe kits include adjustable fittings. These allow you to fine-tune the doors so they are perfectly aligned.
- Adjust the height or angle using the fittings provided.
- Check that the doors close flush and that there are no gaps.
- Keep adjusting until the operation is smooth and balanced.
Step 7: Finishing Touches
When the doors are in place and aligned, complete the installation with any finishing details:
- Clean the tracks to remove dust or debris.
- Fit handles, trims, or other accessories.
- Step back and check the appearance from different angles in the room.
Tips for Different Room Configurations
Every home is different, and sliding wardrobe doors can be adapted to suit a wide range of layouts:
- Wall-to-wall wardrobes – Ensure precise track placement for a fitted look.
- End-panel wardrobes – Use panels to create a neat and secure edge where a wall is not available.
- Smaller bedrooms – Mirrored sliding doors are ideal as they reflect light and create a sense of more space.
For more challenging spaces, consider our build-your-own bespoke wardrobes, which are tailored to the exact dimensions of your room.
Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them
Some of the most common errors when fitting sliding doors include:
- Inaccurate measuring – leads to poor fit and restricted movement. Always measure carefully at multiple points.
- Uneven track installation – causes sticking and misalignment. Use your spirit level throughout the process.
- Skipping adjustments – small issues with alignment can worsen over time. Take the time to make final adjustments.
By avoiding these mistakes, your sliding wardrobe will look great and function properly.
Aftercare and Maintenance
Maintaining your sliding wardrobe doors ensures they last for years:
- Keep the tracks clean and free from dust.
- Inspect wheels and fittings regularly for wear.
- Wipe mirrored or glass panels with a soft cloth to keep them looking their best.
Simple maintenance prevents long-term issues and extends the lifespan of your doors.
Final Thoughts
Installing sliding wardrobe doors is an achievable DIY project that can completely transform your bedroom. With the right tools, accurate measurements, and a quality sliding wardrobe kit, you can create a stylish and functional storage solution that suits your home perfectly.
Browse our full range of sliding wardrobe kits or explore our bespoke wardrobe options for a made-to-measure design.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can sliding wardrobe doors be fitted on carpet?
Yes, sliding doors can be fitted on carpeted floors. The key is to firmly fix the bottom track and remain level.
Do I need professional installation?
Sliding wardrobe kits are designed to be DIY-friendly. However, if you have uneven walls, unusual layouts, or prefer not to fit them yourself, our bespoke wardrobes can be installed professionally.
What if my walls or floors are uneven?
Wall liners and adjustable components allow you to compensate for irregularities. For particularly difficult spaces, a made-to-measure wardrobe is the best solution.
Are mirrored sliding doors safe?
Yes, mirrored doors are made with safety glass and are safe when installed correctly.