5 Quick Fixes: Closet Valet Rods and Hooks

Long gone are the personal valets of the Downton Abbey variety. And, for most of us, the old-school wooden valet stand takes up too much space. But having an extra hand to hold up that jacket while you match it with the perfect shirt is achievable, even in a tiny urban closet–if, that is, you install one of these discreet, affordable valet rods or hooks.

Above: The impeccably organized closet of Martha Stewart Living editor Kevin Sharkey has a slide-out valet hook. (Have a look at his Closet Makeover.) Knape and Vogt’s Fixed-Mount Extension Hanging Rod extends up to 8.25 inches; $17.14 at Cornerstone Hardware.

Above: The Reval Side-Mount Valet Rod attaches to the side of a closet shelf or wall. It’s 12 inches long and chrome-plated; $20.93 at Cornerstone Hardware.

Above: The stainless steel Sugatsune’s Swinging Hanger is 9.75 inches long and comes with stainless screws; $21.25 at the Hardware Hut.

Above: Ikea’s Bjärnum Folding Hook tucks flat when not in use. Made of nickel-plated aluminum, it is 3.25 inches tall and costs $9.99 for a three-pack.

Above: From Germany, the Maplewood Foldable Wardrobe is maple with anodized aluminum hooks and a leather extension strap; €264 ($335.75 USD) at Manufactum.

Dreaming of overhauling your closets? Take a look at our favorite Modular Closet Systems, High to Low.

N.B.: This post is an update; the original story ran on October 15, 2013, as part of our Handyman Special issue.