How to buy a wardrobe

A wardrobe is typically the largest item of furniture in your bedroom after your bed so there are a few important things to bear in mind before making your final choice. Of course, if your room is large then space is less of an issue, but most of us have bedrooms that are average sized so it’s worth taking a bit of time and getting the tape measure out. Most wardrobes need a certain amount of assembly but it’s still essential that you have enough room to get them to where they will eventually end up.

Clear out the clutter

Buying a new wardrobe could give you the boost you need to have a clear out. Have a sort through your clothes and get rid of the ones you don’t need anymore. It may be that you end up needing a double wardrobe when you thought you needed a triple. Or a single when you thought you needed a double. Conversely, make sure you allow room for future purchases – there’s nothing worse than having to squash everything in because you’ve bought a wardrobe that’s too small.

Make the most of space

Your available space is going to determine the size of wardrobe you can fit in but with single, double and triple versions available, you should be able to find one to suit. When you’re measuring up, don’t forget to allow space for doors and drawers opening. Measure alcoves to see if you can fit a wardrobe in – they’re a great way to use space efficiently without encroaching too much on precious floor space.

What are my choices?

Consider what you are going to store and it will be easier to choose the right wardrobe for your space.

Single
Double
Triple
Combi

Ideal for children’s rooms, guest rooms or smaller rooms.

Ideal for the average size bedroom, they are available with and without drawers. If you have lots of long dresses then you’ll need full length hanging space (there’s usually room to line up shoes at the bottom too), or if you have lots of bulky jumpers and jeans then a wardrobe with drawers and/or shelves is the way to go.

For larger bedrooms or for those who have more clothes than average to store, it’s worth considering a triple wardrobe. They make a great focal point and are available in a variety of configurations – with or without shelves, with or without mirrors and with or without drawers so even the most dedicated clothes shopper should find something to suit.

If you have a small room to furnish then consider a combination wardrobe which usually has a combination of hanging space and several drawers – a combi is also ideal for children’s rooms or guest rooms.

Styles and finishes

Are you after the natural warmth, strength and character of oak, the versatility and practicality of wallet-friendly pine, painted furniture to brighten your space and create an atmosphere of calm, or the unique appeal of handcrafted sheesham wood?

Oak furniture is the classic choice. It brings natural rustic character, will last a lifetime and gets better looking as it ages. Plus it works well in both contemporary and more traditional backdrops.

Nothing beats pine for versatility and value. It’s full of character, easy to work with, sustainable and can be crafted into a vast range of stunning furniture which lends itself to a variety of finishes.

Painted furniture will give your space sophistication. It adds brightness, encourages calm and goes well with both dark and light backdrops to either blend in to give the illusion of space or stand out to create dramatic contrast.

Ideal for adding a touch of the exotic to your bedroom, sheesham wood is a dense Indian hardwood that can crafted, usually by hand, into uniquely characterful pieces of furniture that will last for decades.

What else do I need to know?

Measure your bedroom and all access points to it. Not only to make sure you can get the furniture through the door to reassemble it but to ensure it will fit in the space you want it to go in.
Will it work with your existing furniture and accessories like mirrors, lamps and artwork?
Check that solid wood furniture is solid throughout – check the drawer bases and sides, joints, backs and legs to ensure the furniture is as described.

Tips for a tidy wardrobe

You can get more in a tidy wardrobe and it also makes thing easier to find. You’ll also find that ironed clothes are easier to hang or fold than crumpled ones. Special hangers can also help maximise your wardrobe space. Trouser hangers will allow you to hang several pairs in the space of one. Or invest in a multi-use hanger – they’re ideal for looking after accessories such as ties, belts and scarves. Use every inch of space – arrange shoes or bags at the bottom or store spare pillows and throws. Arrange garments by colour so you can find them quickly and find new homes for ones you don’t wear very often. Alternatively organise items by use – keep blouses together, trousers together, shirts together and so on.

How to care for your wardrobe

With a little bit of care and attention, your wardrobe should last a lifetime.

A high quality beeswax applied very six months or so will nourish the wood, keep it protected and ensure it stays looking tip-top.
If you happen to spill anything on it, wipe it off immediately with a damp cloth followed by a dry cloth.
Wherever possible, don’t place your wardrobe in direct sunlight to avoid fading, or in front of a radiator to prevent joints and veneers weakening.