How much does it cost to install closet organizers?

Reviewed by Adam Graham remodeling expert. Written by Fixr.com.

If you need an efficient solution for your clutter, the best bet is to install closet organizers. They are not only a great way to organize your clothes, but they will also give you more space, save you the time you usually spend on tidying your clothes, and will ultimately increase the overall value of your home. While it seems like your storage area can never be big enough, there are many features and elements you can add to it to maximize its storage capacity and improve its design, with a range of price points.

Installing a closet organizer costs between $1,000 and $3,000. Most homeowners pay around $2,000 to install a 12-foot laminate organizer with basic lighting and some custom elements. On the lower end, an organization system can cost just $200 if you opt for a prefabricated wire system. In contrast, a custom luxury, high-end wooden organizing system with multiple storage elements and additions can cost up to $20,000.

Cost to Install Closet Organizers

Closet System Cost by Type

The biggest decision you need to make after picking the material of the organizer is the type of system you want, which ranges in price from $200 to $10,000 for an installed closet system. There are two main types of closets: prefab and custom. The average price of an organizer system is greatly influenced by the system type, specifically the customized and automated features, so make sure you plan your budget according to the system you want to install.

Prefab Closet Systems

Prefab systems cost between $200 and $1,900 for an installed unit. Prefabricated systems are premade pieces installed in closets and are typically the most affordable option for organization. They are easy to find at local stores and simple to install, with most installations taking around two to four hours to complete. As a result, they are made of cheaper, lower quality materials, typically plastic or laminated wood. They cannot be customized to meet your specific needs and are much less durable than custom closet systems.

Custom Closet Systems

The price of a custom closet system ranges between $500 and $10,000, with installation included, depending on the features you add. However, the price can go as high as $20,000 for a luxurious wood system with customized accessories, items, and features. Custom organization systems are designed for a particular space, style, and size. Because of this, they cost more than prefabricated options. While they give you the freedom to choose and customize your space as you want, they take longer to install. Some take several days to set up.

Closet Organizers Cost by Material

The final price of the organizer is heavily affected by the material used and whether it is prefabricated or custom. The cost ranges between $100 and $1,500 for prefab units and $500 to $7,500 for custom units. You should carefully analyze your options and choose the one that best fits your style, storage needs, and budget. Some materials for closet organizers are more durable and sturdy, while some are selected specifically to give a more elegant and luxurious look. The most common material homeowners choose for their organizers is laminate because it offers the best balance between price and durability. Some materials are used in prefabricated units, while others can also be custom. The table below highlights the most popular organizer materials used in custom and prefab units.

Wire Closet Organizers

Wire organizers range in price from $100 to $300 for prefabricated units and $500 to $1,500 for custom units for the material only. This type is typically the most cost-efficient option. It is easy to install, which saves on installation costs. These closets can be installed in one to two hours. Several stand-alone components with wire systems make it easy for you to organize and customize your closet to your needs and preferences. Although wire organizers keep everything tidy and visible, they won’t give a stylish or luxury look. They are made of wires, so they give out a low-budget feel.

Plastic Closet Organizers

A plastic closet organizer made of one set of plastic drawers, two or three shelves, a cabinet, and a few inserts have a price of around $100 without installation. Additional features like plastic bins, storage bins, hangers, and tie racks increase the price up to $350. Plastic organizers can also be customized, ranging in price anywhere from $500 to $1,000. Plastic organizers are lightweight, easy to install, and one of the least expensive options for organizing solutions. While most plastic systems are made from separate elements, a few premade plastic organizers can be purchased from stores. Although they are lightweight and more affordable than other options, they get easily damaged and quickly show signs of wear and tear. They are not the best option if you are looking for a long-term solution.

Metal Closet Organizers

Metal is one of the most durable materials, ranging in price between $150 and $500 for prefab units and $550 to $1,900 for custom ones. Metal closet organizers make a great option for those looking for a long-term solution for their organization needs. They will not corrode, warp, or show any visible damage for longer than any other material. On the downside, however, although it’s quite durable, metal is not as sturdy as it may seem and is not the most appealing or elegant material. You will not get the visual impact you would with a wooden or laminate organizer.

Laminate Closet Organizers

Laminate organizers range in price from $200 to $860 and can be customized for a price of $700 to $4,000. If you want your closet to look more sophisticated and elegant, laminate systems are your best bet to achieve this. You also have the option of adding drawers, doors, and baskets in laminate systems to keep clothes concealed and protected. The biggest downside of laminate organizers is their price. They are one of the most expensive materials. You may require an additional investment to install drawers, doors, and baskets.

Wooden Closet Organizers

Wooden closet organizers range in price from $300 to $1,500 for prefabricated units and $900 to $7,500 for custom units without installation. Wooden organizers are typically built from finish-grade plywood panels and solid-wood edging strips that cover the exposed wood edges. Cedar is another option for those homeowners who want a high-end look and want to prevent pests like moths from damaging their clothes. Although these organizers cost more and are more time-consuming to install, they are more durable, stable, lightweight, and easier to manipulate than many other organizer materials. However, wood chips easily by impact or warp after some time. They require regular maintenance to keep them in their original shape. Wooden organizers are offered in both prefabricated and custom units.

Closet Organizers Prices by Part

The final price of the closet is also directly affected by the parts involved and whether it is prefabricated or custom. Costs range between $10 and $300 for prefab units and $150 to $1,000 for custom units. There is no need to purchase a whole organizing system if it doesn’t fit your storage needs or bedroom design. There is also the option of purchasing different storage parts separately if your space requires a custom plan. Every element comes at a different price and has a different purpose in an organizing system, with the following being the most common elements.

Closet Inserts

Several inserts can be added to your closet to help you organize it. For example, you can add jewelry drawers, rods, wall hooks, and hampers which range from $10 to $90 per unit. If you want to up your storage game, you can install some additional inserts that improve the storage capacity. Each of these items is a great addition to increase storage space and make the most of the space you have in your closet.

Closet Drawers

Drawers have a price between $20 and $120 per drawer for prefab units and $150 to $300 for custom units. Plastic drawers are the cheapest. The most common are laminate drawers, and wood drawers are the most expensive. The price range depends on the number of drawers and the style. Drawers are great to have in closets to store items that cannot be hung up or keep items out of sight.

Closet Shelving

Wire shelves have a price from $25 to $200 per piece for prefab units and $200 to $500 for custom shelves. The price also depends on whether it is a smaller piece or a corner piece, its size, and the material from which it is made. Shelving is a great option to help you store shoes, bags, and other bulky items while keeping everything organized. An important factor in the cost of your shelves is the material you will use.

Closet Cabinets

You can expect to pay between $35 and $300 for prefabricated cabinets. If you want to add custom cabinets to your space, you can expect to spend between $300 and $1,000. Closet cabinets can be used to store shoes, hats, or clothing that is out of season. You can choose prefabricated cabinets that are designed as separate cubes. This allows you to add as many as needed. These are then stacked one on top of another. They are made of different colors and sizes to accommodate different items and needs. Generally, larger cabinets cost more than smaller models. Moreover, a single cabinet costs less, while a full wall of cabinets increases the price by double or more.

Closet Organizers Prices by Brand

Many brands offer clothing organizing solutions, with some of the most popular brands ranging from $115 to $2,000. Every brand focuses on a different aspect of storage. Some focus on luxury items, while others on maximizing the storage capacity. RubberMaid offers the possibility to adjust the parts in the package according to your preference. EZ Shelf has systems that you can purchase completely prefabricated or separate elements that you can later organize on your own. Dotted Line and Closet Evolution offer a wide range of storage organizing systems, with designs and sizes that fit any home. On the high-end, ClosetMaid organizers are one of the most popular organizers. They are recognized for the affordable and durable organizing systems they offer, with systems and organizing solutions that come with various accessories, including drawers, shelves, racks, and installation kits.
Not all of these brands offer prefab solutions, which means the parts must be purchased separately. We will list the price range of the organizers.

Closet Organizer Installation Cost

The labor cost to install a closet organizer ranges between $50 and $100 per hour if you hire a handyman. A handyman is a great option if you are installing a prefabricated closet organizer. If you choose a custom closet organizer, it is recommended that you choose a company that will both create and install the organizer, allowing you to work with the same person or company from start to finish.

Some companies or handymen, however, charge by the job instead of by the hour. This is particularly common with closet design companies. When charging by the job, the installation price will be included in the cost of purchasing the organizer, along with design costs. You can expect to pay between $1,500 to $5,000 for this type of closet organizer, including the design, materials, and installation.

Most organizing installations take around six to seven hours to complete. When you hire a professional to install an organizing system in your home, the first thing they will do is measure your space. If you choose a custom closet organizer, they will create a blueprint or plan for the closet. They will determine where the rods, shelves, and support roles will go. You will need to approve the plan before they begin construction or installation. If you choose a prefabricated system, they will determine where things will be placed before beginning. If you choose drawers, sliding baskets, or bins, they will also install them. Keep in mind that custom closet systems often require more labor than prefab systems.

Closet Shelving Installation Cost

The price to install shelving depends mostly on how much the professional charges and the price of the closet elements you select. Typically, handymen charge $50 to $100 per hour. Prefab closet organizers take up to four hours to complete. Custom closets require at least eight hours. Some contractors charge a flat fee, which is more common for prefab models, while others use a combination of both. When you hire a professional to install your shelving, they come and assess the work that will be required. They may start working on the shelf installation immediately or come back later. The work starts with measuring and marking with a pencil where the shelves will be mounted. Once the markings are set, the handyman starts mounting the units by attaching the mounting clips into the wall studs by driving screws into them.

Closet Accessories Prices

Many different accessories are available to maximize the capacity and organization of your storage solutions. These accessories provide extra storage space and keep your favorite items safe and sound. They range from $2 to $200. These items are normally sold individually. However, you may be able to find some packs with several units. Closet baskets can be the most inexpensive item in your closet organizer or one of the most expensive. A simple basket can cost $2, but a pull out basket can cost up to $110. Storage bins are an alternative and range from $5 to $30 each. Rods and wall hooks may also be useful. Rods are typically used for hangers, while wall hooks work well for purses and jackets. Shoe racks are the best place to store your shoes and help you find them easily. A hamper provides a place for dirty clothing, which can help keep your room clean and organized. A jewelry drawer provides an excellent way to store your necklaces, bracelets, and other types of jewelry. Finally, you can add a full length mirror to see how you look after choosing your outfit.

Closet Organization Services

Hiring a professional closet organizer costs $50 to $150 an hour. Remember that this does not include closet organization systems or installation costs. A professional organizer’s job is to sort through the items in your closet and organize them. This includes clothes, shoes, and accessories. Getting rid of things you do not use is a key component of working with a professional organizer.

They may also recommend storage solutions. Their experience makes them a great help in this area. If you want a custom closet, they can make suggestions or even create a design for your custom closet. They should be experienced and detail oriented. Choosing an organizer from NAPO or the National Association of Productivity and Organizing Professionals is a great idea.

You can choose an organizer to help you with one closet or all the closets in your home. Some help you organize your entire home. This service can make the process of choosing and installing a closet organization system much easier, making the process much easier for you. It also gives you the benefit of a professional with experience and knowledge you do not possess.

Remember that the more work the closet organizer does, the more the service costs. If you simply need one closet organized, this may only cost $150 to $300. However, if you want them to help you choose or create a closet organization system, this takes more time and money.

Are Closet Organizers Worth It?

Closet organizers help keep your clothes organized and eliminate chaos making your wardrobe experience great rather than stressful. Some of the benefits of installing a organizer include helping find things quicker, reducing clutter, and fitting more clothes into a small space.

Without an organizer, people spend extra time rummaging around the numerous shelves and spaces to find something to wear. This causes stress and puts a damper on the day. When things are more organized, they are much easier to find.

With the many pros of organizers come a few cons. A custom closet organizer is typically built to specific design specifications, making it difficult to change or modify later. However, prefabricated organizers often have components that can be removed or added, keeping your closet organized as your needs change. Closet organizers can be expensive, but you can certainly find a closet organizer system that meets your budget.

How to Organize a Closet

Your closet organization system is certainly an excellent first step, but it is not the end of the road. The organizer gives you a starting point for organizing your closet. You will need to take other steps to make the most of your closet space.

Gather Your Supplies

The first thing you need to do is gather your supplies. These include bins, baskets, or bags. One for things you will keep, one for things to throw away, and one for things to donate. This step is essential. Getting rid of things you do not need makes it much easier to organize the things you use.

Move It Out

For this step, you need to remove everything from your closet. Be sure you have a large enough area to work and that you can keep things clean and safe when outside of your closet. If you are installing a closet organizer, this is a great time to do so. If it has already been installed, it is an excellent way to start using it correctly.

Toss It Out

In this step, you need to decide what to keep and what to discard. The best rule of thumb is if you have not worn it in six months or more, get rid of it, except for seasonal items. If it has stains or other damage, toss it. This also applies to shoes and other accessories. The last consideration is, do you love it? Perhaps you have items you loved a year ago, but you do not feel the same way now. Keep the things you are passionate about and dispose of the things that leave you feeling indifferent.

Sort It Out

Now, you need to place the items into groups. This makes it easier to place the items into the closet organizer. Seeing the items grouped together allows you to see how much space you need for each group of items.

Place It

Now, you need to place the items into the closet organizer. It is best to place your most worn items where they are accessible. Consider displaying items like shoes and handbags. This makes it easier to find them and helps you use your space with maximum efficiency. Hooks are an excellent way to store and display handbags and necklaces.

Enhancement and Improvement Costs

Closet Repair

Hiring a handyman for repairs can have a price between $50 and $100 per hour. If you’re replacing an existing closet or repairing an existing one, walls and other elements of the space may get damaged during the process. These holes need to be repaired so the new unit can be stable and last longer. It may also need a new door, new flooring, or a paint job, or have some old shelves that need to be replaced.

Closet Lighting

If you want to add some light effects to your space, recessed lights would cost you $800 to $2,000, while sensor lights that turn on and off when a drawer is opened or closed will be priced $50 to $100. Lighting can bring a whole new dimension to any area, including closets. There are different elements you can add to enhance the look of your space–from automatic- and sensor-, to atmospheric-lights.

Closet Door Replacement

Replacing or installing a new door has a price from $80 for a basic white door to $2,200 for a reclaimed wood door. A glass closet door can cost up to $2,700. The costs vary greatly between doors, so make sure you consider your options carefully before purchasing the one that fits your space and design. A door is one of the most important additions to a closet. Without it, your space may seem unfinished and poorly planned.

Closet Flooring

The average price homeowners pay for flooring is between $5 and $25 per sq.ft. The price to install closet flooring depends on the material you will use. The average closet ranges from 25 sq.ft. to 100 sq.ft. Closet flooring can be made of different materials, from vinyl to laminate, ceramic tiles, and even carpet. Flooring makes your storage space look larger, more intimate, and cozier, contributing to the value of the home.

Paint Closet

If you want to paint your closet, plan an additional $40 to $60 per hour for a professional painter to come and paint it. The average paint job takes a day to complete and another day or two for the painted surface to dry. Having it painted creates a simple and elegant touch that completes the space and complements the room.

Electric Closet Systems

The price can go as low as $1,300 for a basic prefabricated wardrobe lift but can run as high as $10,000 for a customized system with multiple automated elements. Electric systems have become popular in the past few years. They are automated systems operated by a remote or a smart device that usually involves looped hanging rods that turn around with the click of a button. The biggest perk of using electric systems is the convenience that comes with them. You can easily scan through items by clicking a few buttons remotely without having to “dig” into your clothes and potentially wrinkle them. These systems come in both prefabricated and customizable options.

Pull Down Closet Rod

A pull down closet rod costs $100 to $150, while a motorized closet rod costs about $500. They are great if you have trouble reaching your current closet rods. In addition to being helpful for the vertically challenged, it can make a closet handicapped accessible. Older adults find them very useful. A pull down closet rod will usually accommodate 20 to 30 pounds. This means you need to be careful how much weight you place on the closet rod. A motorized closet rod is another option. These accommodate a much higher weight capacity, usually around 75 pounds. This allows you to use all of the space on the rod without concerns about the weight.

Additional Considerations and Costs

• DIY. Putting together an organization system can be a DIY project. However, it can end up causing chaos and more stress. Some cons of a DIY project include time and having the building skills and tools that are required. One major pro to a DIY closet organization system project is it saves you money in labor fees.
• Alternatives. If you don’t want to invest in a complete organizing solution, you can install racks instead. They are a great alternative to an organization system and can easily be added to walk-in closets as a solution to your clutter.
• Planning. Before you start designing and assembling your organizer, you need to carefully plan how you will organize it, and determine whether or not you have the required tools to finish the project. Make sure to measure the size of your closet, the drawers, shelves, and rods to ensure they can fit all the clothes, shoes, and accessories you want to store in it. If you’re inexperienced with organizing systems, a good idea is to purchase items from one single manufacturer, as they are built to match and will minimize the chance of making a mistake.
• Design. Keep in mind that all clothes (and with them, clothes hangers) are different sizes, so racks and shelves need to be planned according to the size of the clothing that will be stored. Make sure you design the structure of the drawers, shelves, rods, and other items according to your organization needs.