Closet Rod Height
The standard closet rod height is 66 in (168 cm) for a single rod, with a shelf 2–3 in above it. For double hang, put the top rod at 80–84 in (203–213 cm) and the bottom rod at 40–42 in (102–107 cm). Long dresses and coats need a rod at 70–72 in so they clear the floor. Closet bar height is the same measurement: from the floor to the top of the rod.
Closet rod heights
| Rod | Height from the floor | What hangs there |
|---|---|---|
| Single rod | 66 in (168 cm) | Most clothes, up to about 60 in long |
| Double hang, top rod | 80–84 in (203–213 cm) | Shirts, jackets, folded trousers |
| Double hang, bottom rod | 40–42 in (102–107 cm) | Shirts, skirts, children's clothes |
| Long hang | 70–72 in (178–183 cm) | Long dresses, coats, robes |
| Children | 40–45 in (102–114 cm) | Kids' clothes, at their reach |
| Accessible (ADA) | 48 in (122 cm) maximum | Reachable from a wheelchair |
Hanging lengths
| Clothes | Length on the hanger |
|---|---|
| Shirts and blouses | 38–40 in (97–102 cm) |
| Suit jackets | 38–42 in (97–107 cm) |
| Trousers folded over a bar | 24–30 in (61–76 cm) |
| Coats | 48–52 in (122–132 cm) |
| Dresses | 60–66 in (152–168 cm) |
Add 2–4 in of clearance above the floor or the rod below: a rod should sit at least the hanging length plus the hanger height (about 4 in) above whatever is under it.
Shelves and rod position
- Shelf above the rod: 2–3 in (5–8 cm) higher, 12–16 in (30–41 cm) deep.
- Rod from the back wall: 12 in (30 cm) to its centre.
- Rod support: every 48 in (120 cm) at most.
- Closet depth: at least 24 in (61 cm) for hanging clothes; see standard closet depth.
Planning a double-hang closet
A double-hang section doubles the hanging space for shirts and trousers. A common reach-in plan: one side double hang (rods at 82 and 41 in), the middle a tower of shelves, the other side single long hang (rod at 66–70 in) for dresses and coats. Our closet organizer plan builds the tower and the top shelves with their wall cleats, sized to your closet:
Frequently asked questions
What is the standard closet rod height?
66 in (168 cm) from the floor for a single rod, with a shelf 2–3 in above it. That leaves room for long shirts, jackets and most dresses.
How high should double closet rods be?
The top rod at 80–84 in (203–213 cm) and the bottom rod at 40–42 in (102–107 cm). Each level then holds shirts, jackets or folded trousers about 40 in long.
How far from the wall should a closet rod be?
12 in (30 cm) from the back wall to the centre of the rod, so hangers clear the wall; in a 24 in deep closet that puts it in the middle.
How long can a closet rod span?
About 48 in (120 cm) for a wooden or steel rod loaded with clothes. Add a centre support for anything longer.
What height for a closet rod for children?
About 40–45 in (102–114 cm) for young children, raised as they grow; with double hang, the lower rod already suits most kids.