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Choosing the correct wardrobe depth is essential for creating a practical, well-organised bedroom. At Humphries Cabinets, we’ve been designing and installing bespoke wardrobes across London for over 15 years, and one of the most common questions we hear is: How deep should a wardrobe be?
In this guide, we explain the standard wardrobe depth in the UK, whether 55cm is deep enough, and what to consider when planning a fitted or built-in wardrobe.
What Is the Standard Wardrobe Depth in the UK?
In most UK homes, the standard wardrobe depth is approximately 60cm.
This measurement works well because:
- The average coat hanger is around 45cm wide
- Clothes need additional space to hang freely without touching the doors
- It allows room for doors, hinges, and internal fittings
While 60cm is considered the standard, wardrobe depths typically range between 50cm and 70cm, depending on design and available space.
For most homes in London, 60cm provides the ideal balance between efficient use of space and practical storage.
Why Wardrobe Depth Matters in London Homes
Space is often at a premium in London properties. Bedrooms can be compact, especially in period homes or modern flats. That’s why selecting the correct wardrobe depth is so important.
A wardrobe that’s too shallow may:
- Prevent clothes from hanging properly
- Cause doors to press against garments
- Limit internal storage options
A properly designed 60cm deep wardrobe ensures:
- Comfortable hanging space
- Room for shelves and drawers
- A clean, proportionate look in the room
At Humphries Cabinets, we always design wardrobes that maximise storage without overwhelming your space.
How Deep Is a Wardrobe? Common Questions Answered
Is 55cm Deep Enough for a Wardrobe?
In some cases, yes.
A 55cm deep wardrobe can work if:
- You primarily store folded clothing
- You use slimline or space-saving hangers
- The design is carefully planned
However, for standard adult clothing, especially coats and jackets, 60cm remains the safer option.
Is 50cm Deep Enough for a Wardrobe?
A 50cm depth may suit smaller bedrooms or alcove wardrobes. However, hanging space becomes tight. Clothes may sit at an angle or press against doors.
This depth works better for:
- Folded storage
- Shelving units
- Children’s wardrobes
Can a Wardrobe Be 40cm Deep?
A wardrobe that is 40cm (400mm) deep is generally too shallow for standard hanging clothes.
At this depth:
- Adult hangers won’t fit properly
- Hanging garments may crease
- Storage options are limited
However, 40cm can be used creatively for:
- Linen storage
- Shoe cabinets
- Hallway cupboards
For a bedroom wardrobe, it’s typically below the recommended minimum depth.
Fitted Wardrobe Depth and Built-In Wardrobe Depth
When designing fitted wardrobes or built-in wardrobes, we generally recommend sticking close to the 60cm standard.
Why?
Because fitted wardrobes are meant to maximise both space and usability. A well-designed built-in wardrobe should allow for:
- Full-length hanging space
- Double hanging rails
- Internal drawers
- Adjustable shelving
At Humphries Cabinets, every wardrobe is made to measure. While 60cm is standard, we customise depth depending on your room layout and storage needs.
Coat Hanger Width and Internal Layout
One of the most overlooked details in wardrobe design is coat hanger width.
Standard hangers measure approximately 45cm. To allow garments to hang naturally without touching doors, you need extra clearance.
This is why 60cm works so well — it provides:
- Adequate hanger space
- Room for sliding or hinged doors
- Better air circulation around clothes
Internal planning is just as important as external dimensions. A well-designed wardrobe should combine:
- Hanging rails
- Shelves
- Soft-close drawers
- Shoe storage
With over 15 years of experience, we design layouts that are both practical and visually seamless.
Depth of Kids’ Wardrobes
Children’s wardrobes often require a slightly different approach.
Because children’s clothing is smaller, a depth of 45cm to 55cm can sometimes be sufficient. This makes it easier for children to:
- Reach hanging rails
- Access shelves
- Keep their space organised
However, if the wardrobe is intended to last into teenage years, sticking closer to 60cm ensures long-term usability.
Custom built wardrobes offer flexibility — adjustable rails and shelves allow the storage to adapt as your child grows.
How to Choose the Right Wardrobe Depth
Before starting your wardrobe project, consider the following:
1. Assess Your Clothing Collection
Do you own long coats, dresses, or suits? If so, a full 60cm depth is recommended.
If most of your clothing is folded, a slightly shallower design might work — but flexibility is reduced.
2. Measure Your Room Carefully
Check:
- Available wall space
- Distance between walls and doors
- Ceiling height
- Door swing clearance
Accurate measurements are essential for a fitted design.
3. Think About Functionality
Ask yourself:
- Do you need double hanging space?
- Extra drawers?
- Shoe storage?
- Sliding or hinged doors?
Depth affects all of these features.
4. Consult Experienced Professionals
Designing the right wardrobe isn’t just about measurements — it’s about creating a system that works for your daily routine.
At Humphries Cabinets, we’ve been designing bespoke cabinetry across London for over 15 years. We help homeowners strike the perfect balance between style, storage, and spatial efficiency.
Final Thoughts
The standard wardrobe depth in the UK is 60cm, and for most London homes, this remains the most practical and versatile choice.
While 55cm or even 50cm may work in certain situations, going too shallow can compromise usability. A 40cm depth is rarely suitable for hanging clothes.
The right depth ensures:
- Clothes hang properly
- Doors close smoothly
- Storage is efficient
- The design looks balanced
If you’re planning a new fitted wardrobe or upgrading your storage, Humphries Cabinets can help. With over 15 years of experience serving London homeowners, we create bespoke wardrobes tailored precisely to your space and lifestyle.
