ᐅ Which Ikea Pax models are the most space-efficient?

Hello everyone,

I am planning to get an IKEA PAX wardrobe for my bedroom, but I have limited space—specifically a relatively small corner that needs to be used as efficiently as possible. Therefore, I am particularly interested in the question: Which IKEA PAX models or combinations are the most space-saving while still offering a good layout to store clothes, shoes, and accessories in an organized and compact way?

I am aware that there are different widths (50, 75, 100 cm (20, 30, 40 inches)) and heights (201, 236 cm (79, 93 inches)), but I am mainly looking for practical tips and experiences on which models work best when you want to make use of every centimeter (inch) — for example, combinations of cabinet depths, sliding doors versus hinged doors, internal organization, and so on.

Does anyone have a good overview or specific recommendations? Helpful advice on planning for limited space is also very welcome!

Thanks in advance!

tanku schrieb:
Which IKEA PAX models or combinations are the most space-saving while also offering a good layout to store clothes, shoes, and accessories in an organized and compact way?

That’s a really good and important question. I know the feeling – when space is limited, planning quickly becomes like a puzzle. Personally, some time ago I chose a 50 cm deep PAX (20 inches) with sliding doors because hinged doors can be cumbersome in tight spaces. Sliding doors save space in front of the wardrobe, which is really crucial.

I also think it’s important to organize the available storage well by using interior fittings like extra shelves, hanging rails, and drawers. In small rooms, it also helps to go for taller models (236 cm / 7 ft 9 in) to save floor space by using height.

Sometimes I worry that very narrow models don’t provide enough storage, but with good planning it works out well. Have you had similar experiences?

I find that with PAX you have the advantage of modular planning, which really helps when space is very limited.

tanku schrieb:
Which IKEA PAX models or combinations are the most space-saving while also offering a good layout to store clothing, shoes, and accessories in an organized and compact way?

The question is very practical, which is good because the best planning always depends on the available space. In general:

- Cabinet depths of 35 cm (14 inches) are the most space-saving – but beware, they are only suitable for shelves and flat clothing, not for hanging clothes.
- The standard depth is 58 cm (23 inches), which is ideal for hanging garments.
- In small rooms, it can be worth choosing a 50 cm (20 inches) depth, which is now also available for PAX with sliding doors.
- Sliding doors significantly reduce the space needed in front of the wardrobe.
- For shoes, special interior fittings or shallow drawers work well and can be combined nicely in narrower models.

I recommend measuring the room carefully first, then considering how you want to use the space (more hanging space, more shelves, etc.). That way, you can develop a space-saving solution tailored to your needs.

If you like, I can also provide basic tips on designing the interior and advice on putting it together.

tanku schrieb:
Which IKEA PAX models or combinations are the most space-saving while also offering a good layout for organizing clothes, shoes, and accessories in a clear and compact way?

Very good and specific question! I like to go into detail with my recommendations:

- PAX units come in three depths: 35 cm, 50 cm, and 58 cm. The 35 cm (14 inches) depth is the most space-saving but does not allow hanging clothes on hangers. It is better suited for shelves, drawers, or shoe compartments.

- The 50 cm (20 inches) depth is a good compromise. Sliding doors are usually available for 50 cm depths, which further reduce the required space compared to hinged doors.

- Widths come in 50 cm, 75 cm, and 100 cm. For small rooms with limited wall space, 50 cm (20 inches) modules offer flexibility since they are easier to adapt.

- Heights: 201 cm is standard, while 236 cm (93 inches) provides additional storage on top but can be visually overwhelming or problematic if ceiling height is limited.

- Interior fittings: The best space savings often come from smart inserts like shelves, shoe organizer cutouts, pull-outs, drawers, and trouser racks. There is a lot of potential to optimize here.

- Tip: Combining 50 cm (20 inches) depth with sliding doors and modular interior fittings is ideal for space-saving solutions.

It would also be important to know the exact room height to recommend the appropriate unit height. Additionally, the type of clothing (many shirts? Dresses? Lots of shoes?) helps to give a precise recommendation.

Can you provide more information on these points?

Domau0 schrieb:
The combination of 50 cm (20 inches) depth with sliding doors and modular interior fittings is ideal when it comes to space-saving solutions.

I can confirm that. From a practical standpoint, using a 50 cm (20 inches) deep PAX combination with sliding doors is indeed the most efficient option to optimize space.

The 35 cm (14 inches) variants are good in terms of space, but they are quite limited due to the lack of clothing rods for hanging garments. However, if mainly folded clothes and accessories need to be stored, they are a suitable alternative.

Additionally, room height should be considered, as PAX units with a height of 236 cm (93 inches) require attention during installation and daily use—this is often underestimated.

For accessories, additional inserts like interior baskets or hooks help improve organization, especially in tight spaces.

In general, less space is needed by reducing cabinet projection (through sliding doors) and using a compact, tailored interior setup.