Build Closet Shelves: A Step-by-Step DIY Guide

Storage is essential in any closet, but it becomes critical in a compact space like a laundry closet. That’s why we built very simple DIY closet shelves soon after moving in. The project is approachable for most homeowners: it uses a small list of materials, takes just a few hours, and can be customized to fit the dimensions and storage needs of your closet.

Bonus: we also show how to build a removable laundry counter that matches the shelves, so you can access the washer and dryer for maintenance when needed.

These shelves have held up well for nearly four years and still look and function as they did the day we installed them.

Materials & Tools Needed

You’ll need two types of wood—1x2s for supports and 3/4″ plywood or MDF for the shelf tops—plus common tools and fasteners. Gather these before you begin:

• 1×2″ pine for shelf supports (or pre-primed wood if you plan to paint)
• 3/4″ plywood for shelf tops (or MDF if painting)
• Miter saw
• Circular saw
• Stud finder
• Long level
• Measuring tape
• Nail gun (optional)
• Electric drill
• Cabinet screws or similar heavy-duty screws
• Wood glue
• Sealant, stain, or primer/paint
• Brush or rag to apply finish

Before shopping, complete the first measuring steps so you know exact quantities to buy.

Closet Shelf Ideas

We’ve tried many different shelf solutions over the years, so the first step is to evaluate your space and storage needs. The following examples illustrate a range of approaches:

When you have a blank wall, floating shelves with sturdy brackets are a clean option. Pairing open shelves with a nearby cabinet can create both display and concealed storage.

In a larger laundry room, upper cabinets provide hidden storage while a single open shelf above the machines can connect visually to a nearby butcher-block counter for a cohesive look.

For tight spaces such as stacked laundry units, slim built-in shelves make excellent use of narrow gaps without sacrificing storage.

Sometimes removing doors or other obstructions opens up opportunities for shelving or creative coverings like blinds to hide clutter. The best solution depends on the constraints and how you want the space to function.

If you need many small compartments for folded clothes, shoes, or bins, a custom pantry-style shelving system can be adapted for a closet, creating cubbies and even a hanging bar where needed.

Our current laundry closet sat between those extremes: a defined closet area with room for a row of shelves, but also an attic access hatch in the ceiling that limited how deep the shelving could be.

Keep constraints like access hatches and electrical outlets in mind while planning so your shelves won’t interfere with maintenance or safety.

Step 1: Measure & Mark Your Closet

Begin by measuring the interior width, depth, and height where you plan to place shelves. This tells you the size and number of shelf tops and how much 1×2 material you’ll need for supports.

• Plan for enough 3/4″ plywood or MDF to make each shelf top without seams when possible.
• Plan enough 1×2″ pine to support all three sides of each shelf and an extra lengthwise support in the middle.

For example, a 5′ × 1.5′ shelf requires one 5′ × 1.5′ plywood piece and support lengths that match the shelf perimeter plus a center cross piece. Mark stud locations with a stud finder so you can anchor supports into solid framing.

Step 2: Install Shelf Supports

Cut 1×2 supports to length and install one long support on the back wall and one on each side wall at the height you want the shelf. Use a level to mark a straight line and remember to factor in the 3/4″ thickness of the plywood so the finished shelf sits at the intended elevation.

Secure the supports into studs using heavy-duty screws. Drive the screws through the supports and into the studs for a strong attachment. You can countersink screws or leave the heads visible depending on the look you want.

We cut the end pieces at a slight angle to help them sit neatly behind the front trim later, but a straight cut will work as well.

Step 3: Add Your Shelf Tops

After securing all supports, lay the plywood shelf top onto the supports. If necessary, cut the plywood to size with a circular saw or have the store make the cuts for you.

Make the counter removable if you need access to appliance hookups—simply leave it loose and not permanently fastened. For fixed shelves, attach the plywood to the supports with finish nails, screws, or wood glue.

Step 4: Add A Face Piece To Each Shelf

Cover the raw plywood edge with a 1×2 face piece cut to the shelf width. Glue and nail or screw the face piece in place. This gives the shelf a thicker, finished appearance and conceals the support ends behind it.

The angled cuts on the support ends help them tuck behind the face trim for a cleaner edge.

Step 5: Add Cross Support (Optional)

For longer shelves or if you plan to store heavy items, add a center cross support underneath. Cut a long 1×2 piece and fasten it from the underside into the side supports, using angled screws and pre-drilling pilot holes to avoid splitting the wood. Brackets can also be used for additional strength if desired.

Step 6: Seal, Stain, or Paint Your Shelves

Finish the shelves with a clear water-based sealer, stain, or paint. If painting, fill nail holes and sand smooth before priming. Allow finishes to fully dry and cure before loading shelves with laundry supplies, linens, or heavier items.

These shelves have adapted to shifting needs over the years, storing towels, tools, light bulbs, seasonal items, and even serving as a small mudroom with hooks on the closet doors for bags and coats.

Accessories like felt bins and small organizers help keep supplies neat and easy to find. After several years of use, this simple shelving approach has proven to be a durable, practical solution for a small laundry closet.

With minimal materials and basic carpentry, you can create custom shelves that maximize vertical space, simplify laundry organization, and blend with your home’s finishes.