Budget Cleaning Closet Built from IKEA Side Tables—And It Totally Works

cleaning closet shelving hack

Think a functional closet requires a trip to the hardware store or a pricey custom build?

Think again.

One clever DIYer turned IKEA’s popular LACK side tables into a surprisingly sturdy and stylish closet system—and the transformation is both affordable and renter-friendly.

How I made my LACK cleaning supplies closet system

cleaning closet hack with IKEA LACK side tables

Materials Needed:

  • 10 x IKEA LACK side tables (in your preferred color)
  • Heavy-duty double-sided tape or small L-brackets
  • 1 x extra-wide L-bracket (leftover from an IKEA EXPEDIT unit)
  • 1 x short closet rod
  • Optional: anchors/screws to secure to wall for added stability

DIY Cleaning Closet Shelving

1. Stack 5 LACK tables on each side to form the “walls” of your closet.

2. The top two tables on each stack were flipped upside down so the finished surface faces down, giving the top a clean, polished look.

3. To keep the stacks steady, the tables were secured together using either double-sided tape (for a less permanent option) or small L-brackets.

cleaning closet hack with IKEA LACK side tables

4. The two columns were then secured to the wall using a wide L-bracket—the kind you’d usually find with a large EXPEDIT or KALLAX unit.

6. A closet rod was installed across the top, creating the perfect space to hang coats, shirts, or dresses.

cleaning closet hack with IKEA LACK side tables

Finished Dimensions:

  • Height: 96 inches
  • Width: 72 inches
  • Depth: 24 inches

Pro tip: Don’t forget to account for your baseboard trim when placing the LACK stacks flush against the wall! A small gap or notch might be necessary for a seamless fit.


NEXT: See more IKEA LACK Side Table Hacks

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