How to Assemble a Wardrobe
Putting together a new wardrobe can seem like a bigger job than expected. There are usually plenty of panels, screws and instructions to work through, and it can be easy to lose track of which piece goes where.
The good news is that with a little preparation, wardrobe assembly can be much more straightforward. Whether you are putting together a new flat pack wardrobe or installing a larger fitted unit, taking your time at the beginning can save you a lot of trouble later.
This wardrobe assembly guide takes you through the main steps, from preparing your space and organising the parts to fitting the doors and securing the wardrobe safely.
What tools do you need to assemble a wardrobe?
The exact tools you need will depend on the wardrobe, but most flat pack wardrobes can be assembled with a few basic tools:
A Phillips screwdriver
A flat-head screwdriver
A hammer or rubber mallet
An Allen key, if it is included with the wardrobe
A spirit level
A tape measure
A drill, especially for securing the wardrobe to the wall
Wall plugs and suitable screws for your type of wall
Before you start, check the manufacturer's instructions. Some wardrobes come with the tools or fixings you need, while others require you to provide them yourself.
How to prepare the assembly area
A clear, flat space makes the whole process easier. You need enough room to lay the wardrobe panels down and move around them without knocking into furniture or walls.
Start by clearing the area where you plan to build the wardrobe. It is also worth protecting the floor, particularly if you are working on wood or laminate flooring.
Keep the instructions nearby and make sure you have good lighting. If possible, avoid assembling the wardrobe directly against the wall. You will usually need some space to turn or lift the frame before moving it into its final position.
How to organise wardrobe parts before starting
One of the easiest ways to make wardrobe assembly less stressful is to organise everything before picking up a screwdriver.
Open the packaging carefully and lay the panels out where you can see them. Compare each piece with the instructions and check that nothing is missing or damaged.
Keep the screws, bolts, hinges and other small fittings together. If there are several types of screws that look similar, separate them into small groups. You can even label them according to the instructions.
It may take a few extra minutes, but this can save you from stopping halfway through because you cannot find the right fitting.
How to assemble the wardrobe frame
The frame is the main structure of the wardrobe, so it is important to get this part right.
Start by following the instructions in the recommended order. Usually, this means connecting the side panels to the top and bottom sections before adding the back panel.
Do not fully tighten every screw immediately. Leaving a little movement can make it easier to line up the panels and fix everything into the correct position. Once the frame is properly aligned, you can tighten the fittings.
Check that the wardrobe is level and square before moving on. If the frame is slightly uneven, the doors and drawers may not sit correctly later.
For a large wardrobe, having another person help you can make the process much safer and easier, particularly when the frame needs to be lifted or moved.
How to fit shelves and drawers
Once the main frame is together, you can start adding the internal storage.
For adjustable shelves, check that the shelf supports are placed at the same height on both sides. A small difference can make the shelf sit unevenly.
Drawers usually require a little more patience. Follow the instructions carefully when attaching the runners and make sure they are fitted on the correct sides. Test each drawer before moving on to the next one.
If a drawer does not slide smoothly, do not force it. Check the runners and screws first, as one small fitting in the wrong position can affect how the whole drawer moves.
How to attach doors correctly
Wardrobe doors can be one of the trickier parts of a flat pack wardrobe assembly, especially when there are several hinges to fit.
Attach the hinges according to the manufacturer's instructions and make sure each one is properly secured. When fitting the door to the frame, it helps to have someone support the door while you attach the hinges.
Once the doors are fitted, open and close them a few times. If there is an uneven gap between the doors or one door sits higher than the other, adjust the hinges gradually until they are aligned.
Take your time with this step. A few small adjustments can make a big difference to how the finished wardrobe looks and feels.
How to secure a wardrobe to the wall
A wardrobe should be properly secured to the wall, particularly if it is tall or heavy. This helps prevent it from tipping forwards.
The correct fixing method depends on the type of wall you have. Brick, concrete, plasterboard and other wall types require different fixings, so use suitable wall plugs and screws for your wall.
Follow the manufacturer's instructions for the recommended fixing points. Before drilling, check that there are no pipes or electrical cables in the area.
If you are not sure which fixings to use or how to carry out the wardrobe installation safely, it is worth getting help from a professional.
How long does it take to assemble a wardrobe?
The time needed depends on the size and design of the wardrobe. A small, simple wardrobe may take a couple of hours, while a larger wardrobe with several drawers and doors can take considerably longer.
The number of parts and the instructions can also make a difference. If you are assembling a wardrobe on your own for the first time, it is better to allow extra time rather than rushing through the process.
Do wardrobes need to be fixed to the wall?
Tall and freestanding wardrobes should generally be secured to the wall to reduce the risk of tipping. This is particularly important in homes with children or pets.
Always check the manufacturer's instructions, as they should specify whether the wardrobe needs to be fixed and where the fixings should be placed. Make sure you use fixings that are suitable for your particular wall type.
Can you assemble a wardrobe alone?
Yes, some smaller wardrobes can be assembled alone if the instructions are straightforward and you have enough space to work safely.
However, larger wardrobes can be difficult to build without help. Some panels are heavy or awkward to hold while attaching screws, and lifting the finished frame can be particularly challenging.
If the wardrobe is large, tall or complicated, having another person help can make the job much easier. For more complex wardrobe installation, you can also hire a professional to assemble and secure it for you.
If you need help with wardrobe assembly, HomeRun can connect you with professionals who can take care of the job for you.
