Buying guide for best armoires
If you’ve ever felt like you’re missing out by not having a walk-in closet, imagine having a bedroom with no closet at all. It’s not so far-fetched; in fact, many older homes lack adequate closet space. In these homes and others, the armoire has been utilized as an alternative, and one might be the perfect storage solution for your home, too.
Armoires are essentially closets in furniture form. They’re often tall, and they are typically outfitted with closet rods, drawers, and nooks. Those with a high level of organization might even have an integrated tie and belt rack, modular drawers, a mirror, and/or lights. The versatility of the armoire has also inspired designs for other types of furniture, including jewelry armoires, linen cabinets, and entertainment centers.
If your wardrobe and closet needs are expanding, an armoire is one of your best options. We’ve put together this buying guide, complete with a few recommendations, to help you find the right storage solution for your home.
Key considerations
Purpose
Different items call for different storage solutions. To narrow your armoire selection, first create a list of the items you intend to store inside it. This will help you find the design you need.
If you’d like to hang clothing inside your armoire, you’ll need one with a closet rod. Some armoires even have two rods to maximize hanging space for garments. On the other hand, if you want to store linens and bedding, opt for a cabinet design with deep, spacious shelves. These armoires often have adjustable shelving to suit various needs.
Size
Make no mistake: armoires are some of the largest pieces of furniture out there. More often than not, they’re over 6 feet tall and 2 to 4 feet wide, or larger. It’s also important to take depth into consideration, as some armoires jut out from the wall as much as 18 inches. As much space as one takes up, keep in mind that it also eliminates clutter from other areas, namely the floor, full laundry baskets, and overstuffed dresser drawers.
Assembly
Some armoires require assembly, which can take a couple hours or more. It’s recommended that you have the right tools, plus someone to help you, to get through the task more quickly. If you’re not sold on the idea of putting together an armoire yourself, you can always hire a pro to take care of it.
Materials
Wood: This is the most popular choice for armoires, especially if you’re investing in a more traditional design. You’ll find armoires made of walnut, maple, oak, birch, cherry, and pine, just to name a few. Armoires are also finished in several ways or come unfinished if you’d like to customize it.
Particleboard: If you’re on a budget, you might gravitate toward an armoire made entirely or in part of manufactured wood or particleboard. It won’t be as durable as a well-made wooden armoire, and it could begin to loosen and wobble with frequent use. If anything, these inexpensive armoires are better for holding lightweight items that you only access occasionally, such as off-season clothing or spare bedding or towels.
Metal: For those seeking an affordable or temporary storage solution, a metal wire armoire is a decent choice. These are wrapped in breathable fabric slipcovers, which are closed with zippers, snaps, or hook-and-loop systems. Many of these armoires are modular, so you can adjust the shelves, nooks, or cubbies to your liking.
"If you intend to store linens or towels in an armoire, adopt a uniform folding system so all items remain organized."
STAFF
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Features
Doors
Doors either extend the full height or are at least half the height of the armoire. Hinges can be either outside or inside the doors — it depends on the design of the piece. Some armoires have sliding doors on a track that open up to provide full access and visibility.
Drawers
Armoires with drawers are popular for bedrooms because they provide traditional storage options for folded clothes. Because doors are the focal point of armoires, the drawers are typically at the bottom, or they run down one side of the armoire.
When it comes to comparing quality, be sure to open and close every drawer at least once. Well-made armoires have drawers that open and close smoothly, while subpar ones can have drawers that get stuck or come off the tracks.
Shelves, nooks, and cubbies
Inside an armoire, you might find shelves, nooks, and/or cubbies. These can take up most of the interior with a full system of compartments or be a smaller component. These tiny subdivisions are ideal for storing accessories, organizing toys, or housing some of your shoe collection.
Closet rod
An armoire with a rods is as close to a closet as you can get. Traditional designs consist of a single rod, but there are contemporary ones that feature several rods for multitiered garment hanging. In armoires with several rods, however, the design may not accommodate full-length garments like trousers, gowns, or long coats.
Premium features
Armoires with premium features tend to cost more, and many consumers feel they’re well worth the investment. An armoire with a mirror is convenient because it eliminates the need for a floor or door mirror. Armoires with specific storage solutions, such as an integrated tie and belt rack or underwear drawer, also help maintain order.
Armoire prices
Armoires range in price from $60 to $3,000, mostly depending on the quality of the materials and construction.
Inexpensive: Budget-friendly armoires cost between $60 and $200 and consist of mostly wire or manufactured wood models. Assembly will be required for all of these, and you might find yourself tightening screws or bolts on a regular basis.
Mid-range: For armoires with more aesthetic value that look more like traditional furniture, expect to spend between $300 and $1,200. These are made with different types of wood and may have premium features.
Expensive: High-end armoires from designer furniture brands cost $1,500 and more. These have the highest quality and are built to last for decades. These are usually fully assembled, so you’ll need to make sure the one you choose can fit through any doorways and staircases to reach its final location.
"To give your armoire an affordable facelift, consider refinishing it or giving it a fresh coat of paint. You can also upgrade the knobs, handles, or drawer pulls. "
STAFF
BestReviews
Tips
Use the right cleaning products. Armoires are made from a variety of materials, so choose the appropriate cleaning products for yours.
Organize your armoire for convenience. Keep your more frequently accessed items at chest or eye level. This will help maintain order in the armoire because you won’t be digging around drawers, nooks, or shelves.
Dust the top. It’s hard to reach the top of the armoire, so grab a step stool or use a long-handled dust mop to clean the top every now and then.
FAQ
Q. Will I be able to fit an armoire through a narrow doorway or up a narrow staircase?
A. In some homes and apartment buildings, you might not be able to get an armoire through these smaller spaces. Luckily for you, many armoires aren’t assembled when you buy them, so you can bring all the components to the room where you intend to set it up. Keep in mind you’ll need to take apart the armoire if you need to move it.
Q. My kids share a bedroom, and we’re tight on closet space. Should I get an armoire or invest in dressers?
A. If you have the space, an armoire can be a better option. One with a curtain rod allows you to hang clothes inside, which isn’t an option with a dresser. You also have more than one type of storage in an armoire, whereas with dressers you’re limited to storing only folded clothing.
Q. Can I put an armoire in a room that already has dressers?
A. Of course. As long as you have enough space, it’s not at all unusual to have both in a room. In fact, it’s quite common if the room lacks a closet. The only thing you need to keep in mind is how much space all the pieces of furniture will take up and if you can easily walk around the room.
