12 genius IKEA closet hacks that will maximise storage space
Our homes are so much more than just a place to sleep and store our stuff. It’s where we relax after a long day, socialise with our nearest and dearest, and for many of us, work!
One of the best things about our homes is that they’re the perfect canvases for expressing our style. They enable us to harness our creativity and decorate the space with a decor scheme that brings us joy.
But creating the perfect home that reflects our personality and vibe can be expensive. That’s why we’ve rounded up our favourite IKEA closet hacks to transform your home on a budget.
Keep reading for inspiration on maximising small spaces with built-in closets, affordable wardrobes with a high-end feel, and more.
12 IKEA closet hacks for 2025
1. IKEA PAX wardrobe hack
Starting the list in serious style is this gorgeous IKEA closet hack from louise_andallthingshome!
Louise created the ideal fitted wardrobe for her daughter’s bedroom using IKEA’s customisable PAX wardrobe system. The wardrobe gives the space a bespoke, polished feel and allows Louise to change the design as her daughter gets older.
Louise assembled the PAX unit and then mounted it on a wooden base. She added some MDF cut to size to the sides and across the top of the wardrobe, creating a seamless, built-in look.
She also coated it in a splash of purple paint to match the room’s colour scheme and added sleek gold handles for the perfect finishing touch.
2. Built-in wardrobe hack using IKEA MALM chests of drawers
The next IKEA closet hack on our list uses two IKEA MALM chests of drawers in different sizes.
Nicole shares a detailed rundown of how she created this compact built-in wardrobe on her blog Living In Flux, which will maximise smaller rooms.
Check out her tutorial and transform even the most modest room into a cosy and efficient space with plenty of storage.
3. IKEA TROFAST closet hack
Get your children’s wardrobe in order with this clever IKEA closet hack from Hamilton Park Home.
Erin transformed a messy cupboard into an organised walk-in closet by incorporating IKEA TROFAST storage units. She also added a clothes rail to provide plenty of space for her children’s clothes and toys.
For the final flourish, she painted the wardrobe white and added light grey storage bins and a rug for a modern and clean aesthetic.
Find out how to recreate this simple wardrobe for your own home over on her website.
4. IKEA NORDLI small closet hack
Make the most of tiny closets with this clever hack from Lindi & Russ.
They achieved this streamlined design by upcycling an old IKEA NORDLI chest of drawers, building a base to place the unit on and a counter to go on top. They also added a floating shelf to utilise vertical space and increase storage capacity.
Upgrade an old set of drawers that need some love, or buy secondhand for an eco-friendly wardrobe hack that won’t break the bank.
5. Open wardrobe hack
An open wardrobe is the perfect way to showcase your favourite items of clothing and also achieve a cool, minimalist vibe.
This IKEA closet hack from noruxhome is super easy to recreate. Simply build three IKEA BESTÅ units (or as many as fit your space) and attach two NORDLI clothes rails to the unit. Noruxhome also placed shoe organisers inside the cabinets to keep them tidy.
Then hang up your clothes and display them in a fun way that isn’t a floordrobe!
Give your living room a farmhouse makeover
Inject some country comfort into your living room with these 10 dreamy farmhouse living room ideas. If you love neutral colours, exposed wood, and a mix of modern and vintage decor, this is the style for you!
6. Children’s wardrobe hack
This children’s wardrobe might be small in size, but it’s big in style and a fantastic space-saver!
Take inspiration from polishedplayhouse and use IKEA’s TROFAST storage units as the frame for a mini wardrobe. Add a clothes rail and shelf to each section and a wooden basket for a rustic touch.
7. Panelled doors hack
This fabulous hack from east_shore_home also uses the popular IKEA PAX wardrobe and proves that building your dream closet doesn’t have to cost a fortune.
Elevate this versatile piece of furniture by adding panelling and stylish handles to create a beautiful built-in wardrobe on a budget.
8. IKEA KALLAX hack
Build a functional and aesthetically pleasing wardrobe with this DIY from Angela Rose Home.
Attach two black IKEA KALLAX units together in an L shape and add a piece of plywood on top of the vertical unit (extending to the wall) for a built-in desk space. You can also add a clothes rail and woven baskets to help with organisation.
Follow Angela Rose’s lead and paint the inside of the unit black to match the KALLAX and leave the rest of the wall white. The contrast between the dark and light shades will give the room a striking contemporary look.
9. IKEA BRIMNES bookcase hack
Heather from Our Barnes Yard gave her closet a chic update for less by working with the wardrobe’s existing shelf and adding an affordable IKEA BRIMNES bookcase underneath.
The bookcase has been positioned right in the centre of the wardrobe, making it the main feature, and rods have been added on either side for hanging clothes. Heather used wooden dowels as a cheaper alternative to a proper wardrobe rail, also giving the wardrobe a timeless Scandi feel.
10. Arched wooden-effect doors hack
This IKEA closet hack from the.decor.edit is sure to add some drama and sophistication to your bedroom or dressing room, and despite looking super high-end, it’s budget-friendly too!
Cut out a set of arched doors from plywood and stain. Opt for a dark hue for a rich, luxurious finish and to add some warmth to your space.
Complete the look with some elegant brass handles and attach them to the front of your wardrobe. You can also fill the space above your wardrobe with some MDF cut to size to achieve the built-in appearance.
Read all about how Nicole (the.decor.edit) made this stunning set of doors on Livingetc.
11. Wardrobe and reading nook hack
Create a cosy reading nook that children will love with this inspired hack from decor 8 blog!
Make a base using an IKEA BESTÅ sideboard and attach a wardrobe on top. Add a window seat cushion and some pretty, decorative cushions to make the space extra comfy, then let your little one snuggle down with their favourite book.
12. Sloped ceiling hack
Maximise sloped ceilings by creating a spacious, built-in wardrobe. emmacourtneyhome shows you how she achieved this by building on IKEA’s METOD cabinets – converting wasted space into a practical storage solution.
The panelled doors provide texture and add a stylish and refined touch, while the built-in design brings a sense of cohesion to the room and allows for a clutter-free space.
Build your perfect wardrobe today
Don’t let the cost stop you from adding your dream wardrobe to your home! With our IKEA closet hacks, you’ll be able to revamp your space without blowing your budget.
Whether you’re after simple upgrades you can make to your existing wardrobe or a more challenging DIY project, there’s something for everyone.
All you need is a few pieces of affordable IKEA furniture (which many of us already have lying around!), and you’re ready to get to work. You’ll have the bedroom you’ve always wanted in no time!
Discover more IKEA hacks with Gathered
If you love the viral IKEA-hacks trend as much as us, make sure you check out our article on 12 easy IKEA KALLAX hacks that will totally transform your home!
You’ll find tons of inspiration for how to upcycle this simple and affordable shelving unit into a fantastic statement piece.
