How to Master the IKEA PAX Planner: Tips for Designing Your Dream Closet

iDecor
Oct 8
15 min read

If you've ever stared at your closet and wondered how it got so chaotic, you're not alone. I used to think my old wire shelves were fine, but after a while, I realized they just weren't working. That's when I found the IKEA PAX planner. This tool helped me turn my messy closet into a space that actually makes sense. Whether you're dealing with tight corners or just too many clothes, the IKEA PAX planner can help you design a closet that fits your life. Here are some tips I picked up while figuring out my own closet setup.

Key Takeaways

Measure your closet space carefully before starting with the IKEA PAX planner.
Think about what you actually need to store and set simple goals for your closet.
Play around with different frame sizes and layouts in the planner to see what fits best.
Mix and match drawers, shelves, and rails for storage that works for you.
Don’t forget small upgrades like lighting or trim—they make a big difference.

Planning Your Perfect Closet With The IKEA PAX Planner

Getting started with the IKEA PAX Planner feels a little like opening a box of Legos and realizing you can build just about anything. But before you start dragging and dropping closet pieces in the planner, spend a little time preparing so you won’t get stuck halfway through the design and have to backtrack.

Measuring Your Space Accurately

Precise measurements are the backbone of a successful PAX closet design. Even if your closet is oddly shaped or full of nooks, don’t round up or guess. Grab your tape measure and jot down:

Width (wall to wall, including baseboards)
Height (floor to ceiling)
Depth (pay attention to anything like protruding outlets, moldings, or closet doors)

A quick table might help you keep track:

Dimension	Left Wall	Right Wall	Back Wall
Width (in)
Height (in)
Depth (in)

Before plugging these numbers into the PAX Planner, double-check them—seriously, a half-inch can ruin your day. Trust me.

For anyone living in an older house or quirky apartment, don’t assume both ends of your closet are the same height. Uneven surfaces pop up everywhere, so measure in at least three spots.

Setting Personal Closet Goals

Think about what you need from your closet. Is your current set-up stuffed to the brim? Do shoes pile up or are you always hunting for a belt? Your goals will be different from someone else’s, even if your closets are the same size.

Here’s how you can define your priorities:

List the types of items you store (shirts, long dresses, shoes, accessories).
Estimate how much space each category should get (more for hanging if you wear dresses; more shelves if you have stacks of jeans).
Decide if you want everything hidden behind doors or if you like open shelves.

Referencing real-life closet makeover tips and ideas can help you set more realistic goals, especially if you want to get creative or work around a tricky space.

Navigating the IKEA PAX Planner Interface

When you log into the IKEA PAX Planner, you’ll see that you can start with templates or go freestyle. Even if you’re tech-shy, the interface is simple—just drag and drop frames, shelves, and rails till your room starts to look like your dream closet. Here’s what most people find useful:

Start by entering your room dimensions, which sets the boundaries for your design.
Choose your frame height and width based on what actually fits (don’t rely on visuals—use those real-world measurements).
Add doors first if you plan to use them—door types affect what shelves, drawers, and accessories you can add later.
Use the tabs (Frames, Doors, Interiors, Organizers, Lighting) in order; trying to jump around usually leads to confusion.

One thing people love: the planner keeps a running price total, so you know right away if your dream closet blows the budget or not. Try playing with different layouts and accessories—sometimes a simple tweak makes your design way more functional without a big cost increase.

Start with something simple. You can always add or remove features after you see them in 3D, and there’s no penalty for changing your mind before you buy.

Customizing Frames And Dimensions To Fit Your Room

Even if it feels like a big puzzle, making your closet fit your space exactly is what sets the PAX system apart. The options for frames and dimensions in the IKEA PAX Planner are what really give you freedom to personalize, so don't rush this step! Each choice, from frame size to depth, seriously changes how much you can store and how the finished closet will function on a daily basis. Take it from me—a little careful measuring before you click 'add to cart' always pays off.

Selecting The Right PAX Frame Size

Picking the proper frame width and height will make or break a closet’s functionality. The PAX system gives you three widths and two heights to work with, so you can fill most wall spaces with little wasted surface. Here’s a quick overview:

Frame Width	Frame Height
19 5/8"	79 1/8"
29 1/2"	92 7/8"
39 3/8"

A few quick things to remember:

Measure your wall and ceiling accurately, including any baseboards or moldings.
Don’t forget to leave space for assembling the frames (at least an extra half inch at the top).
If you want hinged doors, you’ll need more clearance (about 1/2") and up to 2" for sliding doors.

Choosing the frame sizes first locks in the rest of your PAX design—so measure twice, plan once.

Understanding Depth And Height Options

The depth is where a lot of people get stuck! There are two choices: 13 3/4" (shallower, good for tight spots) and 22 7/8" (deeper, fits hangers and pull-out trays better). Not all accessories work with every depth, so check specifics in the IKEA PAX planner tool as you go.

Main points to consider:

The 22 7/8" depth is best if you plan to use standard hangers or lots of hanging space.
If your space is limited by doors, radiators, or hallway traffic, the 13 3/4" depth can slide in where standard closets wouldn’t fit.
Be sure to double-check that drawers and rails fit your chosen frame!

Tips For Small Or Awkward Spaces

Odd corners, sloping ceilings, or extra-narrow reach-ins? You can still get a high-end look with careful frame picking and a few hacks:

Combine narrow and wide frames to cover nearly any wall.
Use filler pieces or add custom trim between the closet and the wall for a built-in effect.
If there's leftover room on the sides, install baseboards, caulk gaps, or frame with matching panels—looks intentional and polished.
For short ceilings, opt for the 79 1/8" height and add storage boxes on top for off-season items.

Small quirks in your room can be handled with some creativity—and often end up looking like a custom build once you finish.

Designing Storage Inside Your IKEA PAX Closet

You finally got through measuring and finding the right frames. Now, it’s all about laying out the inside of your IKEA PAX closet to fit exactly what you own and use most. Honestly, personally I found this part both overwhelming and sort of fun—you start asking yourself, do I really need 20 pairs of shoes front and center or should I make space for seasonal sweaters? Either way, the IKEA PAX system lets you pick and choose the right mix of shelves, drawers, and all those extras so you can actually see and grab what you need without a fight every day.

Combining Drawers, Shelves, And Rails

The secret to a tidy closet is mixing drawers, shelves, and rails to suit your stuff. Not every closet needs the same balance, so start by listing what you use. Here’s an easy way to break it down:

Use rails for dress shirts, coats, and anything you’d rather not fold.
Shelves are perfect for shoes, baskets, or folded jeans.
Drawers keep socks, underwear, and folded items out of sight and dust-free.

And don’t be afraid to switch it up—if you, like me, get tired of tripping over shoes, adjusting just one shelf lower can make a world of difference over time.

Creating Zones For Different Clothing Types

I swear, a little prep before you click anything in the PAX planner pays off. Grouping your clothes by type makes getting dressed way faster. Here are a few easy ideas for creating zones:

Reserve one section for hanging longer things like dresses or pants.
Put everyday wear, like gym clothes and work shirts, right at eye level.
Store less-used items (think formalwear or thick winter sweaters) up high or even down below.

You can even dedicate a drawer for accessories, which somehow always end up tangled unless they’re given their own spot.

Incorporating Slide-Out Trays And Organizers

Slide-out trays are incredibly underrated, especially if you own jewelry, watches, or even slim purses that need a proper home. The Komplement pull-out trays in particular hold all those small things you don’t want to lose in a deep drawer, and keep everything within easy reach.

Here’s a quick look at how you might assign organizers:

Organizer	Good For	Placement Idea
Slide-out tray	Jewelry, watches, belts	Waist or eye level
Basket/drawer dividers	Socks, undies, ties	Inside lower drawers
Shoe rack/shelf	Sneakers, heels, boots	Bottom of the closet frame

When I swapped one regular shelf for a pull-out tray, suddenly I could actually find my sunglasses and spare keys without digging.

The trick is to think about your daily routine, not just what looks good in a design tool. It might feel a little trial-and-error, but once you see it all arranged, the system feels custom—even on a budget.

Optimizing For Doors, Lighting, And Accessibility

Choosing Between Hinged And Sliding Doors

It seems like such a simple decision, but picking between hinged and sliding doors for your PAX closet can make a big difference in how it works in your space. Hinged doors let you open up the entire closet at once, which is great when you want to see everything, but they do need room to swing out. Sliding doors, on the other hand, save space and can be a real lifesaver if your closet is close to a bed, wall, or another piece of furniture. Here’s a quick rundown:

Door Type	Space Needed	Access	Look & Features
Hinged	Needs space in front	Opens fully	Classic, more choices
Sliding	Needs side clearance	Opens half at a time	Modern, great for tight rooms

Hinged doors are easier to customize if you want to add accessories (like hooks or mirrors) inside.
Sliding doors often come with mirrored options that help rooms look bigger.
Mix and match: If your closet is long, you can sometimes do both types on different sections.

Always measure your space—including bed or dresser clearance—before committing; it saves headaches later on.

Integrating Built-In Lighting Solutions

Trying to find a black sock in the dark? Been there. Good lighting inside your closet isn’t just a nice extra, it seriously helps keep things running smoothly (and can make the whole setup look way fancier, honestly). With the PAX system, there are several ways to work in lighting:

LED strip lights: Attach under shelves to light up each section. IKEA has wireless options so you can skip the hassle with cords.
Sensor lights: These switch on automatically when you open the door—less fumbling around for a switch when your hands are full.
Smart lighting: If you want real control, you can add lights to your smart home system and set schedules or brightness with your phone.

Keep in mind:

Hide wires behind panels for a tidy look.
Go for warm white (not bright white) if you want a more relaxing feel.
If your closet has doors, double check lights won’t get blocked or knocked as you open and close them.

Maximizing Accessibility For Daily Use

The dream closet should not only look good; it should be easy to use every day. Little tweaks can help you actually enjoy using your PAX (and stick to keeping it tidy):

Set up drawers and rails at heights you can reach without stretching or bending awkwardly.
Place shelves for shoes or baskets for laundry at the bottom, so you don’t have to dig.
Use pull-out trays or baskets for small things, instead of deep, catch-all shelves.
Store your “grab it every day” items—like uniform pieces, gym gear, scarves—at arm’s height or right inside the door.

Try labels or dividers if multiple people are using the closet.
Hang organizers near the doorway for accessories you toss on after getting dressed.
Add a mirror where you have space—checking your look is handy.

A closet that’s organized to match your routine really can shave time off your morning and keep clutter from stacking up again.

Creative IKEA PAX Planner Hacks And Style Upgrades

Adding Trim And Baseboards For A Built-In Look

Getting your PAX wardrobes to look more like real, permanent furniture isn’t as tricky as it sounds. Attaching simple trim pieces and baseboards can totally change the vibe from “modular closet” to “custom built-in.” A little wood filler, caulk, and paint can help blend the lines, and suddenly your closet looks way more expensive than it really is.

Here’s a quick process (it really pays off!):

Measure and cut baseboards and crown or cove molding to fit each edge
Secure them with finishing nails or glue (try not to put holes in the main PAX frame itself)
Use wood filler to cover seams and gaps
Paint everything, including the added trim, in the same color for a seamless effect

If you take your time with this step, guests will probably assume you had your closet professionally installed. It’s a game changer if you want that built-in, custom home look.

Painting Or Decorating PAX Units

You’re definitely not stuck with the regular white, beige, or gray finish from IKEA. Painting your PAX frames (and doors or drawers) isn’t hard as long as you use the right prep. Light sanding, a good coat of primer, and then decent furniture paint—or even peel-and-stick wallpaper on the doors—can make your closet absolutely unique.

Short list of ways to dress up your PAX:

Use matte paint in your favorite color for a cool, smooth look
Add wallpaper to the back panels or door fronts for texture and print
Apply vinyl decals or stencil custom patterns

Remember, the surface is basically melamine, so a good bonding primer is crucial for lasting results. Paint can also help cover up fillers or hardware you want to blend in.

Smart DIY Modifications For Extra Functionality

If you really want to make your PAX do more for you—without breaking the bank—think about a few simple DIY upgrades. You don’t need a ton of tools or advanced skills.

Some solid ideas:

Change out the knobs and handles with something more personal or upscale
Install LED strip lights with motion sensors for automatic light when you open a door or drawer
Use tension rods for awkward nooks, or add extra shelves to odd-sized compartments
Hide shelf holes with button covers (IKEA sells these, but you can also find alternatives online)

Hack	Effort Level	Estimated Cost
Add baseboards/trim	Moderate	$40-$100
Paint full PAX units	Moderate	$30-$80
Swap hardware	Low	$10-$30
Install LED lighting	Low	$15-$50

Swapping out just a few things and getting creative with the finish can make your PAX closet feel like it was built and tailored exactly for your space—and your style. None of these require advanced skills or an endless budget, but the results always stand out.

Practical Installation And Assembly Advice

Putting together your IKEA PAX closet can be a pretty hands-on project. Whether you’re on your own or you’ve recruited a helper, a little prep work goes a long way.

Planning The Order Of Assembly

Getting the assembly order right can save you serious hassle down the road.

Clear the area: Move anything breakable, and make sure you’ve got space to lay the frame flat. It usually needs more room than you’d guess.
Build the frames first: Don’t bother with drawers or smaller parts yet. Start big, so you have the structure ready.
Work from the ground up: After the main frame is upright and secure, add drawers and accessories from the bottom, moving upward. This helps avoid blocked holes and tricky angles later.
Remove baseboards (if possible): This allows the PAX to fit flush against the wall for a true built-in look. If removal isn’t an option, use spacers behind the frame’s upper edge to compensate.

Double-check the assembly steps in the instruction booklet—they change sometimes, and if you jump ahead, you’ll spend time taking things apart again.

Securing PAX Units Safely

Safety matters, especially with tall or heavy cabinets. Here’s how to make sure your PAX stays where you put it:

Bolt frames together: Connect each PAX unit to its neighbor for stability using the provided screws or brackets.
Always anchor to the wall! Find studs using a stud finder—wardrobes are heavy and can tip if left unsecured.
In drywall-only spots, use heavy-duty wall anchors or toggle bolts. If you have trouble with an anchor, screw a wood cleat between the stud points for a solid attachment.

Task	Tool/Part Needed	Why It Matters
Attach units together	Provided screws/clamps	Prevents shifting/seams
Secure to wall	Stud finder, anchors, drill	Stops tipping, meets safety codes
Level wardrobes	Level, adjustable feet	No wobbly doors, smooth alignment

Anchoring is not just for looks — it keeps kids and pets safe from accidental tipping and keeps your closet sturdy for years.

Tools And Tips For Smooth Installation

You don’t need an entire workshop, but a few basic tools make all the difference:

Power drill with screwdriver bits (assembly moves much faster than with IKEA’s hex wrench)
Level (to keep doors from hanging wonky)
Tape measure and pencil
Blanket or cardboard for protecting your floor
A friend or family member (even if just for lifting and guiding things)

3 key reminders for painless assembly:

Build drawers and small parts in another room ahead of time so pieces don’t pile up.
Mark all intended screw/insert locations with pencil before you start. It’s easier to erase than to patch holes later.
Take breaks if you need—these wardrobes are heavy, and mental fatigue equals mistakes.

Attention to detail during assembly makes your final closet feel custom and solid—not like something that’s going to collapse next time you grab your favorite pair of jeans.

Staying Organized: Maintenance And Closet Refreshes

Keeping your IKEA PAX closet sharp isn’t a one-and-done task. To actually get the most out of all that careful design, you’ll want to make regular upkeep part of your routine. Smart, scheduled maintenance and a few refreshes here and there keep clutter at bay and help the space stay truly functional. Let’s dig into how you can do this.

Seasonal Closet Audits Using Your PAX Planner

A seasonal audit doesn’t just clear out what you don’t need – it helps re-focus your closet so it works for you all year. Grab your PAX Planner design or your phone and follow these steps:

Empty one section at a time, grouping clothes by type or season.
Use your PAX Planner (or just a simple list) to match your storage with what you actually use. If your winter coats are eating up prime shelf space in July, reconsider.
Make quick decisions: Keep, store, or let go. Be realistic!
Wipe down shelves and rails as you go for a genuinely fresh restart.

Some folks even get inspired by closet makeovers to really step things up (creative closet makeovers).

Utilizing Accessories To Prevent Clutter

A tidy closet is easier to keep up with a few handy accessories. Try these to stop messes before they start:

Drawer dividers for socks and underwear.
Pull-out trays for watches, jewelry, or sunglasses.
Shelf baskets or labeled bins for oddball items like scarves and belts.
Hooks for hats, bags or daily essentials.
Shoe organizers to keep floors clear.

Accessory Type	Use Case	Best For
Drawer Dividers	Socks, underwear	Daily items
Slide-Out Trays	Jewelry, sunglasses	Accessories
Hooks	Bags, hats, ties	Visible storage
Shelf Baskets	Miscellaneous, linens	Top shelves
Shoe Racks	Shoes, boots	Floor space

Even a few simple organizers can make a huge difference in the day-to-day feel of your closet.

Long-Term Organization Strategies

Daily and seasonal organizing is great, but for a closet that stays functional over time, try some of these tactics:

Stick to the ‘one in, one out’ rule – if you buy a new sweater, move out an old one.
Keep a donation or sell bin inside your closet for things you’re ready to let go of.
Do mini-audits once a month: 5 minutes is usually enough to straighten a couple drawers or shift shoes to the right spot.
Use clear labeling for all hidden or top shelf storage, so you don’t forget what’s there.

By working these habits into your routine, you’ll make your PAX closet not just organized, but easy to keep that way. A little effort here means less stress (and clutter) later!

Conclusion

So, that's my experience with the IKEA PAX Planner and building out a closet that actually works for us. Honestly, it took some trial and error, a few headaches, and more than one trip back to IKEA, but it was worth it. The planner tool made things a lot easier once I got the hang of it, and being able to see everything laid out before buying saved us from making some expensive mistakes. If you’re thinking about tackling your own closet, just remember to measure twice, plan for what you really need, and don’t stress if things don’t go perfectly the first time. It’s all part of the process. In the end, having a closet that’s organized and fits your life feels pretty great. Good luck with your own PAX project—and don’t forget to celebrate when you finally hang up that last shirt!

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the IKEA PAX Planner and how does it help with closet design?

The IKEA PAX Planner is a free online tool that lets you design your own closet using PAX wardrobe frames and accessories. You can enter your room’s size, pick different closet parts, and see how everything will fit together. It also gives you a price estimate as you build, so you can stay on budget.

How do I measure my space before using the PAX Planner?

Measure the width, height, and depth of the area where you want your closet. Make sure to check for things like baseboards, vents, or light switches that could get in the way. Write down the measurements so you can enter them into the PAX Planner for a perfect fit.

Can I adjust the PAX system for small or odd-shaped rooms?

Yes! The PAX system comes in different sizes and shapes, so you can mix and match frames to fit your space. For really tricky spots, you might need to leave a little gap or use extra trim to make it look neat. Some people even add their own shelves or cut pieces to fit better.

What are the best ways to organize the inside of my PAX closet?

You can use a mix of drawers, shelves, and hanging rails to keep things tidy. Try putting things you use a lot at eye level, and store less-used items up high or down low. Adding organizers like trays or pull-out baskets can help keep smaller things from getting lost.

Is it hard to put together and install a PAX closet?

Assembling a PAX closet takes some time and patience, but it’s not too hard if you follow the instructions. Having a friend to help is a good idea, especially for lifting tall frames. Be sure to fasten the units to the wall so they don’t tip over.

Can I paint or decorate my PAX wardrobe to match my room?

Yes, you can! Many people paint their PAX wardrobes or add trim to make them look built-in. Just make sure to use the right kind of paint and let everything dry before using your closet. You can also change the handles or add wallpaper to the doors for a custom look.