What Are the Requirements for Closet Shelves?
Installing closet shelving may seem straightforward, but doing it right means following a few key rules. Whether you're upgrading a walk-in closet, organizing a linen closet, or planning a new pantry system, proper shelf placement, spacing, and support are essential for both functionality and safety.
At Doors By Mike, we specialize in designing and installing closet systems that are not only attractive but also built to perform. With years of experience transforming closets throughout Georgia, we know exactly how to maximize space while keeping your shelving secure and easy to use.
In this blog, we’ll walk you through the basic rules for closet shelves, from height guidelines to spacing recommendations, so you can better understand what goes into a professional-quality installation.
General Height Guidelines for Closet Shelving
There are standard measurements that help ensure your closet functions well and remains comfortable to use:
- Single-Hang Rod & Shelf: Typically installed at 70 inches from the floor. This allows for enough space to hang full-length items like dresses or coats.
- Double-Hang Sections: Typically, the lower shelf is set at 42 inches, and the upper shelf at 84 inches. Both sections have a hanging rod beneath the shelf.
- Shelves for Folded Items or Accessories: These are typically installed at 28”, 42”, 56”, 70” & 84” off the floor creating a 5 stack of shelves.
These measurements can be customized to suit your height and the types of items you plan to store.
Spacing Between Closet Shelves
Spacing is important for keeping your closet organized and easy to access. Here are a few general rules of thumb:
- Folded Clothes & Shoes: Allow about 14 inches between shelves to accommodate stacks of jeans, sweaters, shirts & shoes.
- Linen Closets: For towels and bedding space shelves about 14 inches apart for optimal fit.
At Doors By Mike, we tailor shelf spacing based on what you plan to store, so your closet works for you, not the other way around. Call us today to schedule your closet shelving installation.
Shelf Depth
Shelf depth plays a major role in usability:
- Melamine Shelving (Express Shelf): Comes in a standard depth of 14”. This depth works well for folded clothing, bins, boxes, shoes or food items in a pantry.
- Ventilated Wire Shelving: Comes in standard depths of 12” or 16”. This depth works well for most folded clothing, bins, boxes, shoes or food items in a pantry. In the pantry the “tight mesh” shelving is typically used for small item storage.
We offer both melamine shelving (Express Shelf) and wire shelving (Ventilated Shelving) options, available in standard depths to suit your specific needs.
Weight Capacity and Shelf Support
Shelves must be properly supported to prevent sagging or collapse, especially when storing heavy items:
- Melamine Shelves: Should be supported with sturdy brackets, especially so on longer spans.
- Wire Shelving: Requires fixed-mount support at the wall and center braces for longer sections.
At Doors By Mike, our professional closet shelving installation ensures every shelf is safely anchored and designed to hold the weight you plan to store.
Accessibility and Functionality
Last but not least, the layout should make your daily routine easier:
- Keep frequently used items between shoulder and waist height.
- Store seasonal or rarely used items on higher shelves.
- Allow enough clearance to comfortably remove and replace items.
Our team works with you during the design process to ensure your new closet system is as practical as it is organized.
Trust the Pros at Doors By Mike
While there are general rules to follow when installing closet shelving, the best system is one that’s designed with your specific space and needs in mind. That’s why Doors By Mike offers custom closet design and installation services using trusted products like Closetmaid’s Express Shelf and Ventilated Shelving systems.
With free in-home estimates, premium materials, and experienced technicians, we make the process simple and stress-free, from design to installation.
Ready for a Better Closet?
If you’re ready to make your closet more functional and organized, contact Doors By Mike today to schedule a consultation. We’ll help you choose the right shelving system and layout that follows all the best practices, so your closet works as hard as you do.








