Pull-down closet rods
A rod that swings down and out with a handle, bringing high-hanging clothes to arm's reach, then lifts back up.
Aging in place · Bedrooms and closets
Accessible closets and storage
Quick answer
Most closets put the rod at about head height and the shelf above it, which is out of reach from a wheelchair and a stretch for anyone with shoulder or balance problems. HandyMangum makes closets and storage easier to use with pull-down closet rods that lower clothes to you, lowered or double rods, lowered and adjustable shelving, pull-out drawers and baskets, plug-in or battery closet lighting, and wider or easier closet doors.
Why closets get hard to use
Reaching up to a high rod or shelf means stretching, standing on tiptoe or using a step stool, which is how a lot of everyday strains and wobbles start. From a wheelchair, most of a standard closet is simply out of reach.
The fix is to bring the things you use every day down into easy reach, and to make the rest come to you. Most of it fits the closet you already have.
Who it helps
- Wheelchair and scooter users
- Anyone with shoulder, back or balance problems
- Older adults who want to stop using step stools
- Shorter adults
- People recovering from surgery
- Families setting up a bedroom for a parent moving in
What the job involves
Look at what you use
Which clothes and items are used every day, and where you stand or sit to reach them.
Plan the reach
Rods, shelves and drawers placed where they can be reached from a chair or without stretching.
Install and adjust
Rods and shelves anchored into studs or rated anchors, pull-downs adjusted to lower smoothly, and lighting set up.
Options
Lowered and double rods
A rod at a seated reach height, or two rods, one above the other, so everyday clothes hang low.
Lowered and adjustable shelving
Shelves moved down into easy reach, or adjustable systems that can change as needs change.
Pull-out drawers and baskets
Drawers and wire baskets on slides, so nothing hides at the back of a deep shelf.
Easy-reach cabinetsCloset lighting
Plug-in or battery motion lights so the closet lights up when the door opens. Hardwired lights by a licensed electrician.
LightingEasier closet doors
Bifold and sliding doors that glide, lever or D-pull handles, or a wider opening.
Door wideningGood to know
- For seated users, ADA guidelines put rods and shelves within a reach range of about 15 to 48 inches above the floor. We use that as a starting point and fit to the person.
- Pull-down rods are rated for a certain weight of clothing; we help you pick one sized for the closet and what hangs on it.
- Linen closets, pantries and hall closets can be done the same way.
- Hardwired closet lights and new switches are electrical work. If any part of the job needs a permit or a state-licensed trade, such as new plumbing lines or new wiring, we tell you during the quote and that part is handled by properly licensed professionals.
Accessible Closets & Storage FAQs
What is a pull-down closet rod?
A closet rod on arms that you pull down and out with a handle, bringing clothes from a high rod to arm's reach, then push back up.
How high should a closet rod be for a wheelchair user?
Following ADA guidelines, within a reach range of about 15 to 48 inches above the floor. Many people use a lowered rod for everyday clothes and a pull-down rod for the rest.
Can you lower the shelves in my existing closet?
Usually, yes. We move rods and shelves down, add a second rod, or install an adjustable system that fits the closet.
Do you do pantries and linen closets too?
Yes. Lowered shelves, pull-out baskets and better lighting work the same way in pantries, linen closets and hall closets.
How do I get an estimate?
Estimates are free. Call or text (407) 699-1123, or send the online request with a few photos. We send a written quote before any work starts.
Bring the closet within reach
Call or text (407) 699-1123, or send the online request with a few photos. Estimates are free on every job.