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Person using measuring tape to measure inside of wardrobe.

Overview

We show you how easy it is to install a wardrobe insert unit in your existing wardrobe. This easy to follow guide takes you through how to install the wardrobe units, build a shelf and attach a hanging rod for your clothes.

Steps

1Measure the wardrobe units

Measure the width of the wardrobe units with your tape measure. Then measure out from each corner and transfer these measurements onto the skirting board.

Person using measuring tape to measure length of wardrobe insert unit.

2Cut the skirting board

Use the multi-tool to cut the skirting board where you marked it. Use a hammer and crowbar to lever the skirting board off the wall. After removing the skirting board, use the claw on the back of the hammer to remove any nails. Repeat this process where the other wardrobe unit will be fitted. Place the wardrobe units so they are flush against the wall.

Person using handsaw to cut off skirting board.

3Measure and cut the shelf

Measure the width of the wardrobe. Transfer this measurement onto the melamine shelf. To protect the melamine, place a piece of masking tape across the shelf where you need to cut. Use the set square to draw a straight line for the cut. Cut the shelf with the circular saw.

Person using measuring tape to measure inside of wardrobe.

4Measure for the cleats

Measure from the base to the top of the tallest wardrobe unit. Transfer that measurement onto the opposite wall. Draw a straight line using the spirit level and pencil. Measure the depth of the wardrobe. Transfer that length onto the piece of timber and cut it to make the cleat. 

Person measuring height of wardrobe insert unit shelving.

5Attach the cleat to the wall

Use a stud finder to locate the studs on the wall where you need to attach the cleat. Mark where they are with a pencil. Pre-drill holes in the wood where the studs are. Use the cordless drill and screws to attach the cleat to the wall.

Person drilling cleat to wall.

6Measure and cut the longer cleat

Measure the distance between the edge of the attached cleat and the wardrobe unit. Transfer this length to the timber. Use a set square to mark straight lines on the wood. Cut the wood with the circular saw. 

Person using measuring tape to measure inside of wardrobe.

7Attach the cleat to the wall

Use the stud finder to locate where the studs are. Mark the corresponding locations on the piece of timber and pre-drill the holes into the timber. Use the cordless drill and screws to attach the cleat to the wall. Use the spirit level to make sure it's straight.

Person using spirit level to ensure cleat is drilled into wall straight.

8Attach the shelf to the wardrobe unit

Lay the shelf on top of the wardrobe unit and the cleats. Use the cordless drill and screws to secure the shelf to the wardrobe unit. Do this in several locations to stop the shelf from moving.

Person placing top shelf on top of wardrobe unit.

9Measure the hanging rod

Measure the distance between the wardrobe unit and the cleat. Then deduct 10mm from this distance and mark this length on the hanging rod. The 10mm takes into account the size of the end rail caps. 

Person laying down top shelf of wardrobe unit.

10Cut the rod to size

Wrap masking tape around the line where you need to cut to make the line easier to see. Position the pipe cutter on the rod and twist the knob at the bottom a quarter-turn to tighten it. Rotate the cutter around the pipe once and then tighten the knob another quarter-turn. Repeat this until the pipe is cut. 

Person cutting metal rod that will be used as a wardrobe rod.

11Hang the rail on the brackets

At both ends of the shelf, measure its width and mark the middle. This is where the brackets for the rails will be attached. Use the cordless drill and screws to attach the first bracket. Insert the rod into the bracket. Insert the other bracket into the other end of the road. Use the cordless drill and screws to attach the second bracket.

Person drilling wardrobe rod piece to top shelf of unit.
Health & Safety

Please make sure you use all equipment appropriately and safely when following the advice in these D.I.Y. videos. You need to be familiar with how to use equipment safely and follow the instructions that came with the equipment. If you are unsure, you may feel it is safest to consult an expert, such as the manufacturer or an expert Bunnings Team Member.

Grave health hazards are linked to asbestos, which may be in homes built up to 1990. Health hazards may result from exposure to lead-based paints in older materials and copper chromium arsenic (CCA) treated timber. For information on the dangers of asbestos, lead-based paint and CCA treated timber and tips for dealing with these materials contact your local council's Environmental Health Officer. You can also use a simple test kit from Bunnings to indicate the presence of lead-based paint.