ᐅ How can I build a shelf myself inside a Pax wardrobe?

Hello everyone, I want to make and install a shelf myself inside my Pax wardrobe. I’m not just looking for simple shelving boards, but rather a sturdy and precisely fitting shelf that I can move or remove as needed. Ideally, the solution should be compatible with the existing structural profiles of the Pax system and have a high load capacity. Does anyone have experience or tips on how to build such a shelf myself? Which materials and fasteners are practical? And how can I get the measurements exactly right? I look forward to your answers.

mumau schrieb:
I’m not just looking for simple shelves, but for a sturdy and precisely fitting platform that I can move or remove as needed.

For a stable shelf in the Pax wardrobe, I recommend using plywood or MDF boards with a minimum thickness of 18 mm (0.7 inches). These can be cut to size and finished with edge banding to improve appearance and prevent chipping.

For mounting, it’s best to use the original Pax hanging rails or hanging brackets often included in the Pax system. Alternatively, you can install special metal shelf supports that hook into the side profiles. It’s important to measure precisely to the millimeter: subtract 4–5 mm (0.16–0.20 inches) from the width so the shelf fits without sticking but also doesn’t wobble.

A detailed guide for a self-made shelf in a Pax wardrobe could look like this:

- First, measure the exact internal width and depth of the wardrobe (always measure at several points, as slight variations may occur).
- Choose plywood, MDF, or laminated chipboard for the shelf panel (at least 18 mm (0.7 inches), preferably 22 mm (0.9 inches)), as these materials support the load better.
- To keep the shelf movable, it is recommended to use the original Pax suspension rails or universally compatible shelf brackets that fit into the perforated side panels.
- The panel edges should be finished with edge banding or profiles to provide moisture protection and a neat appearance.
- For better stability, you can glue reinforcements made of 10 x 30 mm (0.4 x 1.2 inches) strips underneath the shelf.
- Use screws or dowels suitable for furniture. Metal brackets can also be installed for additional reinforcement under the shelf.

If you have specific load requirements, please provide the expected weight so the material and reinforcements can be precisely adjusted.

Take an 18 mm (0.7 inch) MDF board, cut it to size, use the original Pax shelf supports, and then you can easily hang the shelf and move it as needed.

lau-mar schrieb:
Multiplex boards or MDF boards with at least 18 mm (0.7 inch) thickness

Only 18 mm (0.7 inch)? In my opinion, that’s quite borderline if you want to store heavy items on it. Why not go straight to 22 mm (0.9 inch)? And what do you think about metal frames as a substructure? They are much more stable and also look more modern. Clinging to traditional shelving solutions is often just a lazy compromise.

I almost always build shelves for Pax wardrobes using 22 mm (7/8 inch) particleboard. The difference is significant—the shelf is more stable and does not sag. The material is affordable and easy to cut.