John Louis Home Closet Organizer FAQs

Q. Is it really 100% real wood?

A. Absolutely! At John Louis Home, we use only 100% Grade A white pine to create our products. We never compromise on quality by using particle wood, pressed wood, or composite materials. When you choose John Louis Home, you’re investing in genuine, lasting beauty and strength for your home.

Q. What tools are required?

A. You'll need just a few basic tools for your DIY Closet project: a tape measure, pencil, level, screwdriver, power drill, and a saw. For cutting shelves, John Louis Home recommends a table saw, chop saw, or a fine-toothed hand saw for the cleanest results.

Q. How do I choose a closet system?

A. Choosing the right Closet System for you is an exciting process! Here's how to ensure a perfect fit:

Measure Your Closet:

• Reach-in closets (narrow): These often work best with 12-inch deep organizers to maximize your usable space without overcrowding.
• Walk-in closets (larger): You have more flexibility here! You can use 12-inch or 16-inch deep organizers, depending on how much room you have to move around and your specific storage needs.
• Always measure width, depth, and height to get a complete picture of your space.

What Do You Need to Store?

• Take inventory! Count your clothes, shoes, and accessories. Do you need more hanging space for dresses and shirts, ample shelves for folded items, or drawers for smaller essentials?

John Louis Home Benefits: Our Closet Organizers offer unparalleled advantages:

• Real Wood: We stand by our commitment to solid wood, not cheap particle board, ensuring your system lasts for years to come.
• "Cut-to-Fit": This unique feature means you cut the pieces to perfectly fit your closet, eliminating wasted space. Plus, those leftover pieces can often become extra shelves, giving you even more Closet Storage Solutions!
• Adjustable: Our shelves can be moved easily to fit different items, adapting to your evolving wardrobe.
• Accessories: Personalize your system with drawers, doors, shoe shelves, and more for a truly Custom Closet feel.
• Simple Planning:
• Think about one organizer per wall to create distinct zones.
• Use our clever corner shelving to maximize tricky spaces and make every inch count.
• Our system mounts securely to your wall, keeping the floor clear for easy cleaning and a more spacious feel.

DIY Friendly: You'll love how easy our systems are to install with basic tools. By figuring out your closet size, what you need to store, and leveraging John Louis Home's flexible, solid wood system, you can effortlessly create a beautifully organized space.

Q. Will a John Louis Home Closet Organizer fit my closet size?

A. Yes, absolutely! All John Louis Home Closet Organizers are designed to fit closets up to 10ft. in wall length. With the included parts, a Closet Organizer can create multiple closet configurations spanning a maximum of 10ft., and even one configuration spanning up to 12ft.! For closet walls that are 10ft. and below, you can install our organizers in multiple configurations, as shown in our detailed instruction manuals. This flexibility is achieved by how the shelves are positioned to cover the required span. When you use our system in closets less than 10ft. wide, you can use the excess shelving from any cuts back in the organizer, often as additional shelves within the tower. This allows you to get the most out of your organizer with minimal waste.

Q. How do I install a closet organizer?

A. Installing a John Louis Home Closet Organizer is designed to be a straightforward DIY Closet project, thanks to its "cut-to-fit" solid wood system. Here's a general overview of the steps involved:

Plan & Measure:

• Measure everything accurately: Get the exact width, depth, and height of your closet space.
• Design your layout: Decide where your vertical towers will go, how many shelves you need, and the placement of hanging rods. John Louis Home offers various configurations and empowers you to create custom designs.
• Identify wall studs: This is crucial for stability. You'll need to securely mount the system to wall studs for proper support.

Gather Your Tools:

• Tape measure, Pencil, Level, Screwdriver (a power drill/screw gun is highly recommended), Saw (a table saw, chop saw, or fine-toothed hand saw for cutting shelves to size).
• A buddy! While not strictly necessary, having an extra set of hands makes assembly and installation much easier.

Assemble the Core Components:

• Assemble the Storage Towers: These are your main vertical structures. Follow the instructions to put together the tower sides, top, and bottom using the provided cam lock system.
• Install Wall Brackets/Support Rails: Secure these to your wall studs at the desired height. The top shelf and tower are often mounted at an industry standard of 84 inches, but you can adjust this based on your needs. The tower can also sit flush with the floor if your baseboards allow.
• Install Shelves and Hanging Rods:
• Cut-to-Fit Shelves: This is a key feature that makes our Closet Systems so versatile. You'll cut your solid wood shelves to the precise width needed for your closet. Any significant leftover pieces (over 24 inches) can often be used as additional adjustable shelves within the towers, maximizing your Closet Storage Solutions.
• Install Shelves: Place shelves onto the support brackets and/or into the pre-drilled holes in the vertical towers. Our shelves are adjustable, so you can change their height as needed. Some can even be angled for perfect shoe storage.
• Install Garment Bars: These typically go underneath the shelves and connect to specific brackets. John Louis Home's metal garment bars are designed for smooth hanger movement. If you're installing in a corner, one bar might need to be trimmed shorter to allow hangers to slide freely.

Add Accessories (Optional):

• Drawers: If you have drawers, install the soft-close slides and then assemble and install the drawers into the tower sections. Start from the bottom up if doing a full drawer bank.
• Doors: Add cabinet doors to cover sections of your towers for a clean, finished look.
• Other accessories: Install any pull-out valet rods, tie/belt racks, or other specialized accessories according to their instructions.

Finishing Touches:

• Insert mushroom caps into screw holes for a finished look.
• Use the provided stain pen for any touch-ups on cut ends or scratches.
• Ensure all components are securely fastened and level. John Louis Home provides detailed instruction manuals and helpful installation videos to guide you through each step of the process.
• Our system is designed for flexibility, so don't be afraid to customize it to perfectly suit your closet and storage needs!

Q. What if my closet is greater than 12ft. wide?

A. Our Closet Systems allow multiple configurations up to 10ft. wide. However, you can extend a single configuration up to 12ft., utilizing all the material at its maximum length. When you do this, the tower will typically be left with two pre-cut 24in. shelves (not including the tower bottom). For configurations 10ft. or less, you can easily place any leftover shelving within the tower, filling it out more. With a 12ft. configuration, you may want to purchase additional tower accessories or shelving to fully customize your space.

Q. What is included in a John Louis Home Organizer?

A. Each 12in. and 16in. organizer provides a comprehensive solution for your Closet Organization Ideas, containing the following high-quality items:

• Two 2ft. Adjustable Shelves
• Two 4ft. Shelves
• One 6ft. Shelf
• One 6ft. Accessory Tower (two sides, top, & bottom)
• Two 4ft. Metal Garment Bars
• One 6ft. Metal Garment Bar
• Six Metal Garment Bar Ends
• Six Metal J-Hooks
• Six Curved Wooden Angle Brackets
• Seven Metal Shelf Ends
• Fourteen Metal Shelf End Brackets
• All Required Hardware & Fasteners
• Assembly Instructions
• One Year Manufacturer’s Limited Warranty

This complete package ensures you have everything you need for an effective Closet Storage Solution.

Q. What if my closet is less than 6ft. wide?

A. Since our organizers are "cut-to-fit," most homeowners with a closet of 6ft. or less can easily split the parts within the organizer and use them between multiple closets or walls! For example, a 6ft. Shelf and Garment Bar can be used on one wall, while the Tower and 4ft. Shelf/Bars are used on another wall or even in another room, giving you incredible flexibility for your Closet Organization Ideas throughout your home.

Q. What is the height of a John Louis Home Closet Organizer?

A. A John Louis Home Closet Organizer does not have a fixed height, offering you maximum customization. Because the system must always be secured to a wall, you can mount the top shelf and tower at whatever height best fits your individual needs. Often, the tower and adjoining top shelf are hung at an industry standard of 84in., with the second shelf hung at 48in., creating the popular “double hang” configuration. The tower may also be set flush with the floor if your wall trim allows. Please note that the minimum height of the organizer is 72.7in., as this is the tower height.

Q. Can the Closet Organizer be free-floating on either or both sides?

A. Yes! The shelving included with our Closet Organizers can be free-floating by using the provided curved wooden angle brackets.

These angle brackets provide sturdy support to the shelf if it's not installed into a side wall, offering you more flexibility in your Walk-in Closet Designor any closet space.

Q. Can the Garment Bars be mounted directly into sidewalls?

A. No, our Garment Bars are specifically designed to mount directly under the John Louis Home shelving, ensuring optimal support and seamless integration within your Closet System.

Q. Can Closet Organizers be installed on brick or plaster?

A. John Louis Home Closet Organizers are designed for installation on current specifications and methods of wood studding and drywall. While our organizers can be installed on alternative wall types, custom wall preparation and hardware will be required. We recommend consulting a professional if you plan to install on brick or plaster to ensure proper stability and longevity of your Closet Storage Solutions.

Q. What if my cut measurement is in the middle of a shelf slat?

A. We've got you covered with two simple solutions!

• 1) The size of the included Shelf End Hardware allows for short cuts; therefore, you may cut at the nearest slat side of your measurement.
• 2) Make your cut using a fine-toothed straight handsaw and place the cut slat side facing the sidewall for a clean, professional finish.

Q. Can 12in. shelving be mixed with 16in. towers?

A. Yes, you can absolutely mix 12in. shelving with 16in. towers to create a truly customized Closet System! When installing 12in. shelving with 16in. towers, the shelving must always be installed on the exterior, not as Adjustable Shelves for the tower interior. When doing this installation, the 12in. shelving will need to be supported with a curved wooden angle bracket, as it cannot be attached directly to the tower side.

Q. Will the solid wood warp?

A. To prevent warping, John Louis Home uses only quality kiln-dried wood. Our wood is carefully treated, and the multi-layered finish process effectively blocks moisture intake. As with any natural product, warping may occur when used in areas that contain overly excessive amounts of moisture. However, with proper care in standard environments, your solid wood Closet Organizer will maintain its integrity and beauty for years.

Q. Can the Garment Bars be cut?

A. Yes, our Garment Bars are designed to be cut-to-size when needed, giving you even more control over your Custom Closets. We recommend using a fine-toothed blade suitable for metal for the best results.

Q. What is the distance from the Garment Bar to the shelf above?

A. The Garment Bar sits 2in. below the shelf rail, providing ample space for easy access to your hanging clothes.

Q. How much clearance is there from the Garment Bar to the back wall?

A. The Garment Bar sits 10.25in. from the back wall. This generous clearance ensures that any standard hanger will fit comfortably, allowing your clothes to hang freely without touching the wall.

Q. Can John Louis Home shelving be installed in a 90-degree corner?

A. Yes, our shelving can be installed in a corner at a 90-degree angle, making the most of every inch in your Walk-in Closet Design or reach-in space. One shelf (A) is installed onto the back wall and side wall. The other shelf (B) is installed to the perpendicular wall and secured to the front of shelf (A) using the included Shelf End Hardware, creating a seamless corner storage solution.

Q. What are the Tower dimensions?

A. The Tower measures 72.7in. high and 26.25in. wide on the exterior. The interior height is 69.25in. and the interior width is 24in., providing ample space for your folded items, drawers, and other Closet Storage Solutions.

Q. Can I add items to my existing John Louis Home Closet Organizer?

A. Absolutely! One of the greatest benefits of a John Louis Home Closet System is its expandability. You can easily add additional shelves, drawers, and accessories to your existing organizer at any time, allowing your closet to grow and adapt with your needs. Ready to enhance your current system?

Q. How many Drawers can I use in my Closet Organizer?

A. John Louis Home recommends a drawer height combination of 36in. to fill the bottom half of the Tower, allowing the Tower Doors to complete the top half if used. Other drawer combinations can certainly be used to accommodate your unique Closet Organization Ideas and storage customization.

Q. Can multiple sets of Doors be used in the Tower?

A. Yes, two sets of doors can be used to fill the top and bottom half of the Tower, creating a beautiful enclosed cabinet look. Please note that when this is done, no drawers can be installed within that tower section.

Q. How far out do the Doors open from the Tower?

A. Each door measures 12.75in. in width. Once opened, the doors will extend 12.75in. from the Tower.

Q. Can the Doors be removed?

A. Yes, the Doors can be easily removed from the pocket hinges without fully removing the hardware for simple cleaning or temporary adjustments.

Q. Can different handles be used on the Doors in place of the ones provided?

A. We do not offer different handles with our products, but you are welcome to use your own if desired! The screws used with the John Louis Home handles measure .75in., so ensure your new handles are compatible.

Q. Can shelves and drawers be used behind the Tower Doors?

A. Drawers cannot be used behind the Tower Doors; they are designed to be mounted below or in open tower sections. However, shelves can be installed behind the Tower Doors. Please note that the Doors must be removed to adjust the shelving height once they are installed behind them.

Q. Can multiple sets of Doors be used in my Tower?

A. Our previous answer clarified that two sets of doors can be used to fill the top and bottom half of a Tower.

Q. How much does a closet organizer cost?

A. The cost of a Closet Organizer varies depending on the size of your closet, the specific John Louis Home system you choose, and any additional accessories like drawers or doors you decide to add. Our systems offer incredible value because they are real wood, highly customizable, and designed for a DIY Closet installation, saving you money on professional labor. To get an accurate price, we encourage you to browse our collection and build your ideal closet system today!

Q. What is the best closet organizer?

A. The "best" Closet Organizer is one that perfectly meets your needs, your style, and your budget, and we believe John Louis Home stands out. Our Closet Systems are crafted from 100% real wood, offering unparalleled durability and a luxurious aesthetic that particle board simply can't match.

Our "cut-to-fit" and adjustable designs provide unmatched flexibility, allowing you to create truly Custom Closets that maximize every inch of your space.

Plus, our DIY-friendly approach means you can achieve professional results without the high cost of installation. For true value, beauty, and function, John Louis Home is an exceptional choice.

Q. What is the best material for a closet organizer?

A. When it comes to Closet Organizers, real wood is hands down the best material. Unlike particle board, MDF, or laminate, 100% solid wood offers superior strength, longevity, and a timeless elegance that elevates your entire home. It won't sag, crack, or peel, and its natural beauty only improves with age.

At John Louis Home, we exclusively use 100% Grade A white pine because we know you deserve the best in durability and design for your Closet Storage Solutions.

Q. How do you organize a closet?

A. Organizing a closet effectively starts with a good plan and the right Closet Organization Ideas and tools! Here’s how you can make your closet a beacon of order:

• Declutter Ruthlessly: Remove everything from your closet. Donate, discard, or relocate items you no longer use, wear, or love.
• Categorize Your Items: Group similar items together (e.g., shirts, pants, dresses, shoes, accessories).
• Assess Your Needs: What kind of storage do you really need? More hanging space? Deep shelves? Drawers for small items? This will guide your choice of Closet System.
• Install a John Louis Home Closet System: Our "cut-to-fit" solid wood Closet Organizers provide the foundational structure you need. Utilize adjustable shelves, multiple hanging rods (double hang for shirts/pants!), and towers for folded items.
• Maximize Vertical Space: Use every inch from floor to ceiling with our adjustable shelving.
• Add Accessories: Incorporate drawers for socks, underwear, and delicates; shoe shelves to keep footwear tidy; and valet rods for preparing outfits.
• Maintain Regular Purges: Periodically review your wardrobe to keep your closet streamlined and functional.

By investing in a John Louis Home Closet Organizer, you’re not just buying shelves; you're creating a system that makes Closet Organization Ideas a reality, simplifying your daily routine and preserving your wardrobe.

Q. What is the best closet system for a walk-in closet?

A. For a Walk-in Closet Design, the best system offers maximum flexibility, durability, and a custom feel, which is exactly what John Louis Home provides. Our 16-inch deep Closet Organizers are ideal for walk-ins, providing ample storage while allowing plenty of room to move.

The "cut-to-fit" real wood design means you can configure towers, shelves, and hanging rods to perfectly suit the dimensions and flow of your unique walk-in space.

With options for corner shelving, multiple drawer banks, and cabinet doors, you can truly create a personalized Custom Closet that functions beautifully and looks stunning.

Q. What’s a good closet system for a reach-in closet?

A. For a reach-in closet, a good system needs to be highly efficient and maximize every available inch, and John Louis Home is perfect for this! Our 12-inch deep Closet Organizers are often the best choice for narrower reach-in closets, providing effective Closet Storage Solutions without protruding too far into your room.

The "cut-to-fit" nature of our systems allows you to tailor the shelves and hanging rods precisely to your closet's width, eliminating wasted space. You can still achieve double-hang configurations, incorporate a tower for folded items, and even add drawers for small essentials, making your reach-in closet surprisingly spacious and organized.

Q. How do you measure your closet for a perfect fit?

A. Measuring your closet for a perfect fit is crucial for a successful DIY Closet project. Here's how to do it accurately:

• Clear the Closet: Remove everything from your closet, including existing rods and shelves, to get a clear view of the empty space.
• Measure Width: Measure the total width of your closet from wall to wall at three different heights (top, middle, and bottom) in case your walls aren't perfectly straight. Use the smallest measurement.
• Measure Depth: Measure the depth from the back wall to the front of the door frame or opening. For walk-in closets, also measure from the back wall to the opposite wall. This helps you decide between 12-inch and 16-inch deep organizers.
• Measure Height: Measure the height from the floor to the ceiling at several points. Note any obstructions like sloped ceilings, windows, or electrical outlets.
• Note Obstructions: Make a sketch of your closet and mark the location of any outlets, vents, windows, or door frames that might interfere with your design.
• Consider Door Swing: For reach-in closets, make sure your planned layout doesn't obstruct the door's ability to open and close fully.

By taking these precise measurements, you'll be well-prepared to select the ideal John Louis Home Closet System and create a perfectly fitting Custom Closet that you'll love.