10 Best Closet Organization Systems to Make Mornings Easier

The Container Store's iconic Elfa closet system got a modern makeover. Don't worry: We still love the Elfa system (our previous best overall closet system), but the Décor+ offers even more customization. The wall-mounted system can be personalized with birch, soft-close drawers (available in four finishes), LED lighting and an array of new accessories.

There's so many pre-configured systems, plus the option to fully customize the kit to fit your space. It can also be re-configured over time, if you choose to add on accessories later. Although we haven't personally tested the new system, we appreciate that the Container Store offers options are various price points. If you're not sure which style is best for your space, the brand provides free design consultants.

The wire shelves can support up 100 pounds per foot, while the drawers can support 25 pounds. The only con? These modern systems can get pricey, depending on the size on your space and which features you select.

A great option for budget shoppers, this durable closet system can accommodate spaces between five and eight feet wide. One of our testers raved about the versatility: "I liked that the system required minimal tools and is adjustable for easy reconfiguration to suit needs."

During tests, the vinyl-coated steel shelving successfully resisted rust, stains and scratches, although some users found the shelves weren't as sturdy as expected. It attaches to the wall using a track system and brackets, but our experts suggest additional brackets for extra support.

Keep in mind, assembly might call for some trial and error, as the shelves needed to be placed in a specific order. Luckily, you can contact ClosetMaid's customer service to assist with any issues. We recommend visiting HomebyAmes.com to take advantage of its DIY design tool. For an extra $5, you can obtain custom design plans from a ClosetMaid specialist.

If you're looking for an affordable option for your compact space, look no further than Rubbermaid's custom closet kit, which features telescoping rods and expandable shelves to create the illusion of a custom fit. It's available in four different sizes: 2-4 feet, 3-6 feet, 4-8 feet or 6-10 feet.

Hundreds of online reviewers agree it's easy to install. One writes: "Installation was a breeze, thanks to the simple and intuitive design of the shelving kit. With just a few basic tools, I was able to set up the shelves in no time at all." Although, many reviewers found the included hardware was lacking — so, assembly should be easier if you swap it for heavy duty wall anchors and larger screws.

Whether it's for your closet, pantry or home office, the Elfa system is available in an array of pre-designed styles, or can be completely customized to maximize your space. The starter kit features durable epoxy-bonded steel that is attached to the wall with a track system and brackets.

Plus, the Elfa system makes it possible to change your design over time — for example, you can purchase additional components, like wood drawers, separately. "The system seems versatile enough that if I wanted to upgrade or change things around, it wouldn't be very challenging now that we know how to install the basics," said one tester.

Design plans are custom and priced according to the size of your space as well as the features you choose, from different finishes (white, gray and dark gray) to the number of drawers and ventilated shelves. While you can install this modular closet system on your own, you can also call on an Elfa expert for design assistance. If you're going the DIY route, note that our testers found the Container Store's online video tutorials to be helpful and simple to follow (as opposed to the written instructions, which were harder to understand).

Rubbermaid's low-cost closet kits, which are available on Amazon, are known for being easy to assemble and reconfigure as your storage needs evolve. Ideal for either walk-in or reach-in closets, this kit features nine wire shelves and two hanging rods. Plus, it boasts an epoxy finish to ensure you won't have to deal with rust. Reviewers recommend reading the instructions carefully and visiting Rubbermaid.com for additional guidance on installation, which is best to handle with two people.

Exuding a modern style, this multi-functional closet system is a go-to choice for walk-in closets (especially if aesthetics matters to you). While this Amazon pick isn't as customizable as others (only the left shelving tower is adjustable), it comes ready with a mix of storage solutions, including shelf towers, expandable rods, storage drawers and interior shelves.

Overall, online reviewers are impressed by the quality and appearance, especially considering the low price point. In its entirety, the sturdy system can support up to 1,000 pounds. The only downsides are some online reviewers had trouble with assembly and a few wish it were more adjustable.

If your closet is out in the open (think mounted to a bedroom wall or displayed in the laundry room), consider trading a metal system for more stylish wood. This adjustable system is available in six neutral melamine finishes, including white, bleached walnut, coastal teak and noir – all of which are designed to resist stains and scratches.

Rods and shelves can be hung at any height along the tower sides, and two of the tower shelves are adjustable (three are fixed), allowing you to slightly customize the system to fit your space. Home Depot also offers additional Style+ items (like bars, drawers or shelves) that are compatible with the system. Just keep in mind, you'll need to assemble this one yourself and instructions are lengthy.

This compact closet kit from Modular Closets, which was recognized in Good Housekeeping's 2023 Best Cleaning & Organizing Awards, provides impressive quality. Our Lab also found that the modules are sturdy and easy to assemble with just a screwdriver.

Modular Closets offers an array of ready-made options but if you're in search of a custom design, the Good Housekeeping Institute's Deputy Editor, Jessica Teich, recommends its free design tool. "You can mix and match modules and create the very best fit for your space in whatever finish you prefer, right down to the pulls," she says, noting that the custom features are especially brilliant for compact layouts.

The wide range of components, including long- and short-hanging sections, shelves, drawers and useful extras like a valet rod for additional hanging space, help to maximize your design scheme.

While we haven't tested this free-standing wire closet kit in our Labs, Wayfair reviewers rave about its reasonable price point, durability, small-space appeal and simple installation process that one person can tackle. It comes in two versatile finishes — silver and bronze — to match a variety of aesthetics and offers two hanging rods for clothing plus eight adjustable shelves to organize shoes. If you're on the taller side, you might find that the hanging bars aren't high enough, according to one online reviewer.

If you're not typically the DIY type, this white laminated-wood system that's equipped with three closet rods and six shelves is for you. It comes with clear installation instructions (you'll know exactly which pegs fit the different pieces), and you can also access a wide range of online resources at HomesbyAmes.com to ensure that you're happy with the end results.

Just note that, similar to all laminate systems, the Selectives surfaces are easily scuffed and marked. It even chipped during our in-Lab drop test. Another downside we discovered during testing is that the instructions don't clearly mention the need to use different pegs if you are setting up drawers rather than shelving.