Author: Chloe

Rubbermaid Wire Shelving Part 1: How To Double Your Closet Space

If you are trying to manage your clothes in a closet that only has one rail, I expect you are struggling. But if you can’t afford a new closet, why not consider some Rubbermaid wire shelving.

This will allow you to optimize the vertical space within the closet, giving you at least double the area for storage.

The easiest and cheapest way to buy Rubbermaid wire shelving is as part of their Configurations custom closet range kits. Yes, I know you may not want the whole hanging clothes rail ensemble, but believe me, it is the best way.

Rubbermaid Wire Shelving

==> Click HERE to let Rubbermaid solve your closet storage problems <==

 

 

If you don’t believe me, you CAN buy Rubbermaid shelving kits containing either two flat shelves or two angled shoe shelves (about 4 feet of shelving) separately. Just make sure you buy two vertical tracks to mount them on at the same time. All in all this will set you back about $50. For more information on the stand alone kits, please see Part 4 of this series of articles.

Alternatively starting at around $60 for the Configurations Starter Kit, you get 8 feet of wire shelving stacking space which is much better value as you can see. And you could always use the hanging space for some hanging closet organizers if nothing else!

Check out our Rubbermaid Wire Shelving series to learn everything you need to know about how this affordable system can help with your closet storage.

 

What Rubbermaid wire shelving is available?

Rubbermaid Configurations

There are five custom closet kits available in the Rubbermaid Configurations range. All are available in two color finishes (titanium and white) which are maintenance free and will not snag your clothes.

The first thing you need to work out is the width of your closet and then select either a 3-6′ kit or a 4-8′ kit. There are then Starter, Classic or Deluxe systems to choose from – the difference being in the width of the hanging rods and the number of shelves that are included.

Rubbermaid Wire Shelves

The hanging rods are expandable and both the shelves and the rods can be located wherever you choose. They are then easy to relocate later if need be. Everything that you need for complete installation is included in the box.

Please check out the video below to see Rubbermaid closet shelving in action. (NB: Homefree is the same as Configurations but is the exclusive name used by Lowes stores).

 

FAQs

Why should I choose wire storage?

Because it ensures your clothes are better ventilated. The air can circulate easily preventing a build up of dust or mold.

Why should I choose Rubbermaid?

Rubbermaid is a well respected brand name. Its wire shelving is eco-friendly being made from 100% recycled steel and being 100% recyclable. The epoxy coatings used on the wirework are hard, durable and smooth. They will not discolor, peel, rust or chip and allow for easy gliding of clothes or hangers. This coating is indoor air quality certified so you can be assured that it is promoting clean air. And if that’s not enough, the product comes with a lifetime warranty.

Which Configurations kit offers the best value for money on wire shelving?

Rubbermaid_Configurations

While the Deluxe kits should offer the best value for money based on the manufacturer’s recommended retail prices, with the discounts available at Amazon.com, the Classic kits tend to work out the most cost effective in terms of $ per foot of stacking space.

 

Rubbermaid wire shelving installation

Just measure the width of your closet, choose the appropriate Configurations kit and follow the easy 4-step installation:

  • Mount the horizontal extendable hang rails onto the wall anchoring them into wall studs.
  • Hang the upright tracks onto the hang rails.
  • Clip the shelf brackets into the upright tracks at your desired heights.
  • Lay the wire shelving on top and lock into place.

That’s it. Both the hang rails and the Rubbermaid storage shelves are designed in a way that means they can be overlapped during installation. That means there is no need to cut anything to size.

For the installation instructions PDF please click HERE.

==> Click HERE to let Rubbermaid solve your closet storage problems <==

 

Make your closet space work for you

Treat yourself to a few Rubbermaid shelving units and really pimp out that walk-in closet! Beware though, you won’t be able to stop until you have this system in every closet in your home.

Rubbermaid FastTrack Part 5: FAQs

What exactly is the Fast Track Rubbermaid system?

The Fast Track system by Rubbermaid is a garage organization system. Essentially it is just a wall-mounted rail that you snap a bunch of hooks onto, that then hold your tools and equipment off of the garage floor. It is specifically designed for drywall installation.

The rails and accessories are all purchased separately making the system completely customizable. At the very least you will need to buy one or more rails and a few hooks, shelves or racks from the wide range of accessories to get your garage organization started.

==> Click HERE to let Rubbermaid solve your garage storage problems <==

 

Why do I need it?

If you want to get your garage back for its intended use (to hold your vehicle nonetheless!) but you still want to be able to store items in your garage efficiently, then the affordable FastTrack system is for you.

Please see our other article in this FastTrack series to discover the “9 Ways The Rubbermaid Fast Track System Can Help You“.

 

 

Is it any good?

Yes, it is easy to install and use, it is versatile so you can rearrange your accessories whenever you like and is expandable so can be added to at any time.

Please read our other FastTrack series article “Rubbermaid Garage Organizer Review” to learn about the pros and cons of this system in more detail.

 

What can’t I find an “All In One” kit?

When you shop for the Fast Track Rubbermaid system, you will probably be expecting to find the whole kit in a big box. You can find a 5 Piece All In One Set but mostly you will just see the individual pieces of the system for sale.

This is actually a good thing as the items you have cluttering up your garage floor are more than likely personal to you. As such being able to buy each hook, rack or shelf separately, after sorting through what you have to store, will make the end result exactly what you need.

You can also add to the system at any future point as your storage needs change.

 

How many rails do I need?

This depends on how much wall space you have and how many accessories you plan on hanging from it.

The best advice is to sort through your garage clutter, throw away or donate anything you don’t need or use and then determine which accessory is suited to each item (for example the multi-purpose hook can hold your 3 spades).

Once you know how many accessories you need, you can work out how much rail you need as each 48″ rail will hold 3-4 accessories.

 

What accessories are there?

Hooks:

Fast Track Rubbermaid Multi Purpose HookUtility HookHose HookVertical Bike HookHorizontal Bike HookCompact HookShelf with 3 HooksCooler HookWheelbarrow HookLadder HookPower Tool HookS Hooks

==> Click HERE for more details <==

Racks:

Vertical BallFishingWinter Sports

==> Click HERE for more details <==

Shelves:

Shelf With 3 HooksWire ShelfMesh Basket

==> Click HERE for more details <==

 

How much weight can I hang on the rail?

The 84″ rails can hold slightly more weight than the 48″ rails – 2000 lbs v 1750 lbs. Each accessory typically holds 50 lbs but you will need to check each one individually to ensure it is fit for the purpose you intend.

 

If I bought every accessory, how much would it cost?

If you bought one of every accessory, plus all the rails needed to hang them on, it would cost about $450.

 

Is it easy to install?

Yes, check it out:

 

What tools do I need to install the Rubbermaid FastTrack rail?

All you need for quick installation is a level, a drill (and 1/8″ and 3/8″ bits), a stud finder and a screwdriver.

 

How do I install it?

The rail is the only part of the system that is attached to the wall. To install it, use your stud finder to locate your studs, drill a pilot hole into the stud where you want the end of the rail to be, insert the wall anchor and screw in one end of the rail. Level your rail and mark the rest of the drill holes using a pencil through the pre-drilled holes in the rail. Drill the remaining pilot holes, insert the wall anchors, hold the rail in position and screw into the wall. Snap on the cover and then you are ready to snap on your accessories.

 

How do I attach the wire shelves to the rail?

You will need 3 pieces of vertical track that are sold separately along with the gripper that snaps onto the rail, as well as 3 brackets, again sold separately.

Please see our other article in this FastTrack series to find out more about “Rubbermaid FastTrack Shelving”.

 

Do I really need the rail?

You could mount the accessories into a stud but the screws for this are not provided. You will also limit yourself to only being able to hang things from each stud as opposed to across the whole rail if you use the system properly.

 

Can I use the Rubbermaid FastTrack system anywhere other than the garage?

Yes, great options would be the basement, laundry room and pantry, although shelving will be your main priority so the Rubbermaid wire shelving range might be more suitable depending on your requirements.

Tradesmen have also used FastTrack in their work vans to keep things organized and this seems to work well.

 

What if I don’t have drywall?

Rubbermaid storage FastTrack is specially designed to be installed on drywall so if you have brick, cement or cinder block walls you will need to buy additional hardware and install the system differently. The recommended weight that the system can hold is also not appropriate for other types of wall.

Rubbermaid FastTrack Part 4: Shelving & Accessories

Are you keen to get started on organizing your garage having read our other articles about the Rubbermaid FastTrack series?

If so here is a bit more information on Rubbermaid FastTrack shelves and other popular accessories.

 

 

Rubbermaid FastTrack Shelving

Rubbermaid FastTrack Shelving

The easiest Rubbermaid FastTrack shelf to install is the 19″x11″ shelf with 3 hooks that snaps right onto the rail like the other accessories but for something bigger, you will need the 48″x16″ shelves.

Rubbermaid Fast Track Shelving

==> Click HERE for more details <==

To fix these larger shelves to the rail, you will also need three upright tracks with grippers and brackets (sold separately). The grippers snap onto the rail and the brackets (once locked onto the uprights) support the shelves. The uprights come in two different lengths (25″ and 47.5″) depending on how many shelves you want or how low you want them to hang below the rail.

The shelves are 16″ deep, so ideal for storing large boxes and they have a lip at the back to stop items from hitting the wall. Like all FastTrack accessories, they are maintenance free and sturdy, holding items weighing up to 350 lbs.

Add a few tiers of this sleek looking shelving to store a variety of items, such as gardening tools, hats, boots etc. Why not use them to store your plants on during winter?

How you position them is completely customizable and being lightweight, they are easy to rearrange.

The only downside is the cost. By the time you’ve bought the shelf, 3 uprights and 3 brackets, the price is quite high. Make sure you get at least 2 shelves and mount both on the 3 uprights you are buying to make the most of the cost.

To offset the cost you have to remember that these shelves are not permanently drilled into your garage wall. You can adjust the location at any time, so you are paying extra for added convenience.

Popular Rubbermaid FastTrack Accessories

Multi-Purpose Hook

Rubbermaid FastTrack Accessories

==> Click HERE for more details <==

You can hang just about anything on this hook thanks to its long and strong arm. Think of all your long handle tools, sports equipment and scooters that you can keep off the garage floor but easily to hand. Why not get two and use them to hold a canopy or hammock horizontally folded up in their bag.

Capable of holding up to 50 lbs in weight, the options are endless. It also has a protective lip at the end to ensure your items don’t fall off onto you or the floor, a protective coating to ensure it won’t scratch your tools and the arm can be folded up when not in use to keep your garage safer. Tools can be stored right side up or upside down, whichever is more appropriate to their shape.

As with all FastTrack accessories, mounting this hook onto the Rubbermaid storage rail is as easy as snapping it into place. It is also maintenance free thanks to its finish.

Utility Hook

Rubbermaid FastTrack Hooks

==> Click HERE for more details <==

You certainly get utility with this hook. As well as hanging general items such as shovels and tools, it is great for storing extension cords and other wrapping items thanks to its tall lip.

As with the multi-purpose hook it is easily snapped onto the FastTrack rail, can hold up to 50 lbs in weight and is rust, chip and maintenance free. It is a great space saver and will really get you hooked on Rubbermaid’s FastTrack system.

Vertical Ball Rack

Rubbermaid FastTrack Ball Rack

==> Click HERE for more details <==

Basketballs, soccer balls, Nerf balls and all the other types of ball are hard to keep track of in a garage with their ability to roll all over the place. This vertical rack makes the most of your vertical wall space by stacking all your balls in an easy to access rack.

The bungee cords hold balls of any size tight but allow easy access to them without the need for removing the top ones to get to those lower down. It is also easy to put the balls away again at the end of play. It will hold 6-10 balls depending on their size. Small balls like tennis balls could be accommodated in a small basket hung underneath or even kept in a bag within the main rack.

Snapping onto the Rubbermaid FastTrack rail in seconds, your ball storage worries could be over very soon. It could also be used without the rail – just stand it in the corner of your garage or hang on a utility hook.

Don’t be limited to ball storage though – it is also great for keeping kids bike helmets neat and tidy.

Rubbermaid FastTrack Part 3: Rubbermaid Garage Organizer Review

Rubbermaid.com promise that their garage organization system is easy, versatile and expandable. They also promise that installation is as easy as 1.. 2.. 3.. But is it really?

We’ve checked out what their customers have said about the Rubbermaid FastTrack garage system – good and bad.

==> Click HERE to read more Rubbermaid garage organizer reviews <==

 

 

The Pros

Easy

Rubbermaid Garage OrganizerFastTrack is easy in two ways – easy to install and easy to use.

If you want to clear up your garage clutter in a hurry, then FastTrack is for you. You can install it in ‘minutes’, snap on the hooks and have your garage quickly reorganized.

It is also simple to use. So take control and stop your garage being a dumping ground for all and sundry. Use up that empty vertical wall space to free up your garage floor.

Photo credit: Rubbermaid Products.

Versatile

With the wide range of accessories available, you can completely customize your garage storage.

Buy the hooks, shelves or racks that will be useful for your items, whether they are sports equipment, camping gear, paint tins, holiday decorations, garden tools, etc. Combine individual hooks for larger items and baskets or shelves for smaller items for the ultimate combination.

The great thing about this system is that there is no need to overly plan where each item will go in advance. It is so easy to snap the hooks off the rail and snap them on again elsewhere, you can quickly re-organize how your items are arranged if you don’t like them a certain way or your needs change.

There is no need to worry about having loads of holes in your drywall when you move things around as you are not moving the rail, just relocating where the accessories hang on the rail.

Although specifically designed for use with drywall, customers have also used FastTrack in outdoor sheds and even work vans to store tools.

“I could try something in one position and if it didn’t work for me, space-wise, I just had to take off the tool, toy or piece of equipment and move the hook to a different position.” – Customer review, Rubbermaid.com

Expandable

Being a modular system that can be added to at any time, Rubbermaid FastTrack is fully expandable. Whether you need a few more hooks than you originally thought when you initially installed it or your needs change in the future, you can easily buy another accessory and/or rail to meet your new requirements.

So it appears that the claims made by Rubbermaid storage are upheld by their customers. But we’ve also found some more advantages to these garage organization systems.

Affordable

As you can buy as few or as many of the accessories as you like, you can configure a system to meet your budget. Being expandable you can add more accessories as you go along, meaning you can budget for each addition.

An organized garage will also help you sell your house and may even increase the sales price should you ever move home. But the best part is you can just unscrew the system when you leave and take it with you.

“A quick way to improve your garage’s appeal for potential buyers.” – Customer review, Rubbermaid.com

Stylish

The look of the end result has been well thought out by Rubbermaid. Covers for the FastTrack rail make for a clean and finished look that looks great on the wall. Overall it is very sleek and attractive.

Practical

This Rubbermaid garage organizer system allows you to take back your garage. Kids will put stuff away on the right hook rather than dumping bikes and balls on the garage floor. And the plastic coating on the hooks means that the finish on bikes etc won’t be damaged.

Things won’t fall down on you as you try to retrieve something from the back of a pile of items in the corner of the garage. By clearing your garage floor onto the hooks, racks or shelves or by tucking larger items under the rails, you will make brushing the floor clean quick and easy.

“The Fast Track Rails I ordered were just the right space saver for my garage tools. I now have everything in sight and available with room to spare.” – Customer review, Rubbermaid.com

Durable

The rails can hold up to 2000 lbs of heavy equipment offering you reliable support for many tools and sporting equipment.

Improvements that would be nice

The only real downsides we came across when researching what FastTrack users really think to the system are:

  • that sometimes the hooks come off the track quite easily when you lift your tool off;
  • as each piece for this system is sold separately, there are no savings to be made by buying bundles of accessories.

Other garage organization systems

The Gladiator GarageWorks system is a similar, well thought of contender rivaling the Rubbermaid option but FastTrack has the added advantage of being cheaper.

==> Click HERE to read more Rubbermaid garage organizer reviews <==

The Rubbermaid FastTrack garage system is wonderful for keeping a garage, neat, tidy and clean. Can you do without one?

This article is part of our Rubbermaid FastTrack series. For more information on this popular garage organization system, please check out:

Rubbermaid FastTrack Part 2: 9 Ways Fast Track Can Help You

Want to transform your garage from this …..

 

Rubbermaid FastTrack Garage Before
… to this?

 

Rubbermaid Fast Track Garage After
Photo credit: Rubbermaid.com

If so the Rubbermaid FastTrack system is the answer. Read on to discover the 9 ways it can help you.

==> Click HERE to let Rubbermaid solve your garage storage problems <==

You can also check out the rest of our Rubbermaid FastTrack series to find out any further information you may need.

 

 

Way 1
Get your garage back so you can park in it again

If you don’t use your garage for your vehicle, you are not alone. Amazingly, 42% of garage owners are in the same position. But with FastTrack from Rubbermaid storage, you get a wall mounted rail system to keep your items up off the floor. This frees up the garage floor and protects your items from dirt and moisture.

Use those empty walls to create storage space for your power tools, garden tools, ladders and bikes. With this system you will have 10 TIMES the storage space than you would have by just screwing hooks into studs.

Way 2
Simple installation so no need to employ a tradesman

The Rubbermaid FastTrack garage system is easy to install, only taking 3 quick and simple steps:

  • screw the rail(s) into your garage wall studs
  • snap on the rail covering
  • quickly and easily snap on the accessories, such as tools or sports storage hooks and racks, shelves or cabinets.

You only need a drill, a level and ideally a stud finder and you’ll have your garage organized in no time.

Way 3
Make use of all that garage wall as hanging space

You no longer need to worry about only being able to hang things on the wall studs in your garage. You can have a rail the full length of your garage and hang things from every inch of it.

Way 4
Change the layout of your garage storage anytime you like

You don’t need to plan too much with FastTrack as it is versatile and adjustable. All of the accessories are easily repositioned without the need for any tools. So hang your stuff up and it you don’t like it, move it somewhere else.

The number of arrangements you can come up with for all the accessories and shelves is unlimited. You can also add to the system later to accommodate your changing needs.

Way 5
Add to the system any time you like

The Rubbermaid Fast Track system is expandable with your ever changing needs. You can add more rails or accessories as and when you need them and then rearrange your hooks, shelves or racks by quickly unclipping them and positioning them elsewhere.

Way 6
Organize your sports equipment as well as your tools

FastTrack is not just designed for household or garden tool storage. It also recognizes that many people use their garage to store their sports equipment. With hooks designed specially to hold bikes, baseball bats, balls, fishing gear and winter sports equipment, getting out to your sports fixture on time, will never be a problem again.

Having a dedicated space for each item of sports equipment also encourages kids to put things away rather than dumping them on the garage floor.

Way 7
Keep big and bulky equipment off the garage floor

The FastTrack rails are sturdy and can support up to 2000 lbs in weight, that’s about 50 wheelbarrows, so there’s no reason for even big items to take up your garage floor space.

Way 8
No need to spend a fortune on an expensive system

FastTrack is completely modular so you can buy one rail and a few hooks to start with and add to it over the next few months and years as you can afford it.

One piece of 48″ Rubbermaid FastTrack rail, which will hold 3-4 accessories, costs around $13. The average price of each accessory is then around $17 – the cheapest being the Compact Hook for around $5 and with more expensive mesh baskets costing around $27. So you could start with a rail, a multi purpose hook, a hose hook and a wheelbarrow hook for around $60.

Way 9
Increase the sale price of your house

“An organized garage “increases the value — not a lot — but it does help,” said Phyllis Pezenik, vice president of residential sales for DJK Residential, a New York area real estate firm.” (Source: GarageHero.com)

As well as possibly increasing the sale price of your house, an organized garage can be a selling point and help shorten the time your property is on the market. It can also gain you brownie points when an assessor comes to appraise your home for a refinance.

==> Click HERE to let Rubbermaid solve your garage storage problems <==

 

You might also be interested in:

Garage Shelving IdeasGarage Shelving Ideas: 5 Questions To Consider Before Purchase

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