Sliding Closet Shelving

Using Sliding Shelves To Organize Your Closet

Sliding shelving makes pulling items out of shelves easy and smooth. No tugging or hard pulling - they just slide right out. They are perfect for storing just about anything -- socks, personal stuff, documents, CDs, computer keyboards, utensils - anything you'd like easy access to.

When choosing sliding closet shelving, make sure you take the shelving's depth, width and type. Here's a short guide:

Depth Consider what you will be keeping in the shelves. Would you need a shallow or deep shelf? Some manufacturers have standard depths and their shelving can go from as small as 10" to as big as 26". You can even order some custom-cut if you need deeper shelves. Make sure that the space where the shelf will go is clear. Take note of pipes and wires so you'll order the right size.

Width Remember that you will need to install sliding hardware to the sides of the closet so the actual size of the shelf might be less than the size of the closet opening, so make sure you make the proper adjustments.

Slide Types There are two types of slides - the standard slides and the full extension slides. For most installations, a standard slide will do the job. It is also easier to install.

Full extensions may be a little harder to assemble and install, but they allow you easy and full access to items that are found in the back of the shelf. Great for storing CDs or canned food. Buy only if you absolutely need to, because if not, you'll be spending money on a system you can't fully utilize.

Shelf Types A full shelf will need four "L" brackets attached to either the shelf or cabinet. It fills the cabinet's full depth from side to side.

A half-shelf type usually has depths from 9" to 12" so it's a little small. It will need just two "L" brackets at the back for secure attachment. Most newer cabinets have half shelves.

A no shelf installation is great for locations where there is no existing shelf and you'll only need storage for light items, like bathrooms. It's not recommended for storing heavy items because it's not strong enough to carry that much weight. No shelf installations are either with rear mounted sockets or side mounted.

Once you've decided on the sliding shelves that you need, check out these websites:

Try www.shelvesthatslide.com. The name says it all. They have fully assembled shelving that's ready to install for your cabinets. The shelves are custom-fitted in 1/16" increments so you're sure to get the perfect fit for your bedroom or bathroom cabinets.

The sliding shelves come in depths of 9 ¾" to 25 ¾" in 2" increments. The standard slides have four "L" brackets that lets you install the shelving to a pre-existing shelf or cabinet. The slides have a 100-lb. capacity. Accessories needed for installation are included like brackets, drawer slides, plastic door protectors and screws.

The site features a measurement guide to help you get the correct dimensions. When you order, you will need to fill out info like cabinet opening, depth and the shelf's mounting style.

Since shelves are custom-made, it would take from three to five weeks for your order to be delivered if you chose the standard shelves. Their economy shelves ships within one week.

Looking for a cheaper alternative? Try www.SlidingShelves.com. They have smaller capacity drawer slides called Economy Shelf that can accommodate 75 lbs. Great if you're only looking to store little items that won't be too heavy. Also custom-made in 1/16" width increments, with lengths from 6" to 24", Economy shelves come with a two-year guarantee against manufacturer's defects.

Try shopping for sliding closet shelves at the usual places, too. Home Depot and Wal-Mart stores have home storage and organizing systems that's worth checking.