When getting rid of an old or unwanted wardrobe there is a good chance you will need to dismantle it or have it dismantled first. In this 7 step guide we will break down how to safely and securely dismantle a freestanding wardrobe.
But before we begin you should decide if you want to dispose of it, recycle it, donate, or sell it on to someone who wants it.
You can -
• Schedule a bulky waste collection with your local authority.
• Hire a professional wardrobe removal service like Central Junk.
• Take it to the local recycling centre or dump.
• Donating it to charity.
• Sell it or give it away.
If you choose to hire a service like Central Junk we can take care of the dismantling for you. On the other hand, your local authority might collect it in one piece, but you will need to get it outside first and might need to dismantle it to do so. Either way if you've decided to dismantle the wardrobe yourself, follow this step-by-step guide and you’ll be well on your way.
Before starting, evaluate how the wardrobe has been assembled. Ask yourself:
• Is it freestanding or built-in? Built-in wardrobes require professional dismantling. Contact us for advice on removing a built-in wardrobe.
• How are the doors, shelves, and hanging rails connected?
• Does it have mirrored doors or glass panels?
• Is it attached to a wall, ceiling, or floor?
If the wardrobe is secured to a wall, you may need additional tools and fixings to remove brackets or screws safely.
Common fixings in flat-pack furniture are:
• Cam locks & cam dowels: A small circular locking mechanism that secures panels together.
• Wood dowels: Small wooden pegs that reinforce joints.
• Screws & bolts: Typically used in heavier joints.
• Brackets: May be found securing shelves or rails.
Also Remember Safety First
• Never dismantle a wardrobe alone. Ask a friend or family member for help.
• Ensure children and pets are kept away from the work area.
• Create a clear path to move dismantled pieces safely.
• Wear protective gloves and sturdy footwear to prevent injury.
Having the correct tools ready will make the process smoother. You may need:
• Screwdrivers (flathead and Phillips/posidrive)
• Electric drill (for faster screw removal)
• Allen keys (hex keys) (for cam lock fittings)
• Hammer (preferably a claw hammer for removing nails)
• Adjustable spanner or wrench (for nuts and bolts)
• Plastic bags or a container (for storing small fixings like screws, nails, and brackets)
• Thick blankets, cardboard, or bubble wrap (for protecting delicate parts like mirrored doors)
Start by removing all contents, including clothes, shelves, hanging rails, and drawers:
• Shelves: Most shelves sit on small plastic or metal pegs—simply lift them off.
• Hanging rail: Unscrew or pull the rail from its brackets.
• Drawers: Remove by pulling them out fully. Some may have a latch underneath that needs releasing.
Keep all screws, hinges, and brackets in a labelled bag if you plan to sell or donate the wardrobe.
If your wardrobe has doors, remove them carefully:
• Hinged doors: Unscrew the hinges from the wardrobe frame while someone holds the door securely.
• Sliding doors: Remove any securing fixtures and lift the door upwards to detach it from the track.
• Mirrored doors: Place them carefully on a soft surface and avoid placing mirrors directly against each other. Use blankets or cardboard between them for protection.
The back panel holds the structure together, so removing it first will make the rest of the dismantling easier.
• If nailed in, use the claw end of a hammer to gently pry it off.
• If screwed in, remove the screws with a drill or screwdriver.
• Once detached, remove any remaining nails or screws from the panel.
• Start with the top panel, unscrewing it from the side panels while someone supports it.
• Next, remove the side panels, which are often fixed to the bottom panel with cam lock fasteners (the circular pieces that lock screws in place). Use a screwdriver or Allen key to loosen these.
• Finally, remove the bottom panel.
Depending on your disposal plan:
• If selling or donating, stack the parts neatly and store all screws, bolts, and fixings in a small container or plastic bag.
• If disposing, keep the area clear and separate wood, metal, and other materials for recycling where possible.
By following this guide, you should be able to safely dismantle a freestanding wardrobe.
If you are unsure about any point in this guide or for expert advice and professional dismantling services, contact our customer our support team or call 020 3923 3679