Kids Wardrobes & Storage for Beginners

In depth

Choosing your first wardrobe for a child can feel surprisingly overwhelming. There’s a lot of terminology thrown around – ‘anti-tip kits’, ‘adjustable shelves’, ‘door styles’ – that doesn't immediately translate to how the space will actually work in *your* room. Don't worry; it’s perfectly normal to feel this way. Let's break down what you need to consider, focusing on the essentials and what you can safely leave until later.

The biggest factor initially is floor space. Measure carefully! Before you start browsing, get a really accurate idea of how much room you have available. Most wardrobes come in widths ranging from roughly 90cm (36 inches) upwards, and depths between 45cm (18 inches) and 60cm (24 inches). The height is often adjustable, but factor in the space needed for doors – a standard door will add at least 2-3cm (1-1.25 inch) to the overall width. Don't forget to account for space around the wardrobe itself; you’ll need room to manoeuvre and get things *in* and *out*. It’s far better to have a slightly smaller wardrobe that fits comfortably than one that crowds the room and makes it difficult to move about.

Next, consider the internal layout. You'll see terms like ‘multi-function’, ‘adjustable shelving’, and ‘hanging rails’. “Adjustable Shelving” simply means you can change the height of the shelves within the unit – useful if your child’s clothes will grow quickly or if you want to store items of different sizes. “Multi-function” refers to wardrobes with drawers, doors, and often a hanging rail all in one. Whilst this seems appealing initially, it can sometimes mean less usable space overall because some designs prioritise aesthetics over practicality. A simpler wardrobe with just a hanging rail and shelves might be more efficient for storing everyday items like jumpers and trousers. The number of hanging rails is also important; two rails are generally preferable to one as they allow you to hang shirts and dresses alongside jackets, preventing creases.

Stability is crucial, especially with children around. Wardrobes, particularly taller ones, need to be secure against tipping. You'll often see something called an "anti-tip kit" included – this is a set of straps and fittings designed to attach the wardrobe to the wall. Amazon usually includes these as standard, but it’s vital you actually *use* them. Most wardrobes come with pre-drilled holes for fixing, however, you will need suitable screws appropriate for your wall type (plasterboard, brick, etc.). It's also worth noting that some manufacturers offer additional anti-tip kits if the included one isn’t sufficient – this is something to investigate *before* assembling the wardrobe.

Don’t get too hung up on door styles at this stage. You'll see options like ‘sliding doors’, ‘hinged doors’, and ‘bi-fold doors’. Sliding doors are good for smaller rooms as they don’t require space behind the unit for opening. Hinged doors are generally easier to clean and can be more cost effective. Bi-fold doors (folding inwards) look stylish but can make it difficult to see into the wardrobe, especially if they're not mirrored. The type of hinges also matters; soft-close hinges will prevent slamming and reduce noise – something worth considering if you have young children.

Finally, there are some features you can probably ignore for your first purchase. ‘Cable management systems’ (little clips and channels to hide wires) seem clever but rarely get used. Similarly, things like built-in charging stations or integrated lighting add cost without necessarily adding value. Focus on the core requirements – a stable unit with enough hanging space and shelf space to accommodate your child's current clothing collection. You can always add accessories later if you need them.

It’s perfectly acceptable to start with something relatively basic. Many excellent wardrobes offer a good balance of functionality and affordability without unnecessary bells and whistles. Prioritise stability, accurate measurements, and understanding the core features – you’ll be well on your way to providing your child with a practical and organised storage solution.