What Is a Sliding Wardrobe?
A sliding wardrobe uses doors that glide horizontally on tracks instead of swinging outward. This eliminates the need for 2.5 feet of clearance in front—making it ideal for Bangalore bedrooms where space is premium. The doors overlap when open, with typically only half the wardrobe accessible at any time.
In Whitefield and Sarjapur Road apartments, sliding wardrobes have become the default choice for master bedrooms. A 10×12 feet bedroom can accommodate a wall-to-wall sliding wardrobe while still fitting a queen bed comfortably—something impossible with hinged doors.
Sliding vs Hinged Wardrobes: Quick Comparison
| Factor | Sliding Wardrobe | Hinged Wardrobe |
|---|---|---|
| Clearance Needed | 0 feet (doors slide) | 2.5 feet minimum |
| Access at Once | 50% (half accessible) | 100% (full view) |
| Cost (6×7 ft) | ₹1.2-2.5L | ₹1-2L |
| Track Maintenance | Regular cleaning needed | Minimal |
| Best For | Rooms under 150 sq ft | Rooms over 150 sq ft |
| Modern Look | Contemporary, sleek | Traditional, classic |
How Much Does a Sliding Wardrobe Cost in Bangalore 2026?
A sliding wardrobe in Bangalore costs ₹1.2L to ₹3L in 2026 for a standard 6×7 feet unit. The price varies based on track system quality, door finish, and internal fittings. Expect 8-10% higher costs compared to 2025 due to material and labor inflation.
Sliding Wardrobe Price by Finish Type
| Finish Type | Cost/Sq Ft | 6×7 ft Wardrobe | 8×8 ft Wardrobe |
|---|---|---|---|
| Laminate (Basic) | ₹850-1,200 | ₹1.2-1.5L | ₹1.6-2L |
| High-Gloss Laminate | ₹1,100-1,400 | ₹1.4-1.8L | ₹1.9-2.4L |
| Acrylic Finish | ₹1,400-1,800 | ₹1.8-2.2L | ₹2.4-3L |
| Mirror Panels | ₹1,600-2,200 | ₹2-2.8L | ₹2.8-3.5L |
| Lacquer/PU Paint | ₹2,000-2,800 | ₹2.5-3.5L | ₹3.5-4.5L |
What's Included in the Price
- Carcass: MR grade plywood (19mm) for bedroom wardrobes
- Track System: Hettich or Hafele soft-close mechanism
- Internal Fittings: Shelves, hanging rods, basic drawers
- Installation: On-site assembly and fitting
- Hardware: Soft-close channels for drawers
Additional Costs to Budget
| Add-On | Cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Loft (above wardrobe) | ₹15,000-25,000 | For ceiling heights above 9 feet |
| Internal Lighting | ₹5,000-12,000 | LED strip with sensor |
| Full-Length Mirror | ₹8,000-15,000 | On one door panel |
| Trouser Pull-Out | ₹4,000-6,000 | Hettich/Hafele branded |
| Tie/Belt Holder | ₹2,000-4,000 | Pull-out accessory |
| Jewellery Drawer | ₹6,000-10,000 | Velvet-lined with lock |
Track Systems: Top-Hung vs Bottom-Rolling
The track system determines how smoothly your wardrobe doors operate and how long they last. Top-hung systems are superior for durability and ease of maintenance, while bottom-rolling tracks cost less but require more upkeep. Always use Hettich or Hafele tracks—these are the only brands we recommend for 15+ year reliability.
Top-Hung Track System
Doors hang from an overhead rail and glide on rollers mounted at the top. A small guide at the bottom keeps doors aligned without bearing weight. This is the preferred system for Bangalore homes.
Advantages:
- Smoother, quieter operation
- No floor track to trip over
- Easier to clean floor beneath
- Doors won't derail from dust buildup
- Better for heavy door panels (mirror, lacquer)
Cost: ₹8,000-15,000 for complete track set (6-8 ft width)
Bottom-Rolling Track System
Doors roll on wheels that sit in a floor-mounted track. A top guide prevents swaying. This system costs 20-30% less but has maintenance drawbacks.
Disadvantages:
- Floor track collects dust and debris
- Wheels can derail if track isn't cleaned
- Difficult to clean beneath wardrobe
- Track creates a trip hazard
- Not suitable for heavy panels
Cost: ₹5,000-10,000 for complete track set
Track System Comparison
| Factor | Top-Hung | Bottom-Rolling |
|---|---|---|
| Smoothness | Excellent | Good (when clean) |
| Maintenance | Low | Regular cleaning needed |
| Floor Cleaning | Easy | Difficult |
| Max Panel Weight | 60-80 kg | 40-50 kg |
| Lifespan | 15-20 years | 10-12 years |
| Recommended For | All wardrobes | Budget projects only |
Door Configurations and Panel Options
Door configuration depends on wardrobe width. Each door should be 2-3 feet wide for easy handling—too narrow feels flimsy, too wide is heavy to move. The number of doors affects both accessibility and cost.
Doors by Wardrobe Width
| Wardrobe Width | Recommended Doors | Access at Once | Track Cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| 4-5 feet | 2 doors | 50% | ₹6,000-10,000 |
| 6-8 feet | 3 doors | 66% | ₹10,000-15,000 |
| 9-12 feet | 4 doors | 50-75% | ₹15,000-22,000 |
| 12+ feet | 5-6 doors | 60-80% | ₹20,000-30,000 |
Door Panel Options
Laminate Panels: Most cost-effective option. Available in wood grains, solid colors, and textures. Durable for 10-15 years. Best value at ₹850-1,200/sq ft.
Acrylic/High-Gloss: Reflective surface that brightens rooms. Fingerprint-prone—requires regular cleaning. Ideal for contemporary interiors. ₹1,400-1,800/sq ft.
Mirror Panels: Makes rooms appear larger. Full-mirror or combination (half mirror, half laminate). Adds 15-20 kg per panel—use top-hung tracks only. ₹1,600-2,200/sq ft.
Lacquer/PU Paint: Premium matte or satin finish. Requires HDHMR base for smooth application. Repairable if scratched. ₹2,000-2,800/sq ft.
Combination Panels: Mix materials on same door—mirror center with laminate border, or two-tone laminate. Adds ₹5,000-10,000 to door cost.
Internal Layout Planning for Indian Wardrobes
Indian wardrobes need different layouts than Western designs. Sarees need 54-inch full-length hanging, while kurtas and shirts work with 42-inch half-height sections. Plan storage based on actual clothing mix—not generic templates.
Recommended Space Allocation
| Storage Type | Allocation | Dimensions | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Full-Length Hanging | 30% | 54" height, 24" depth | Sarees, kurtas, dresses |
| Half-Height Hanging | 30% | 42" height (double stack) | Shirts, blouses, trousers |
| Shelving | 25% | 12-15" between shelves | Folded clothes, bags |
| Drawers | 10% | 6-8" height each | Innerwear, accessories |
| Accessories | 5% | Various | Ties, belts, jewelry |
Zone-Wise Planning
Everyday Zone (Eye Level): Most-used items at 3-5 feet height. Include frequently worn clothes, daily accessories. This zone should be most accessible.
Storage Zone (Top): Seasonal items, luggage, rarely used bedding at 6+ feet. Add a small step stool area if ceiling height exceeds 9 feet.
Bottom Zone: Shoe rack (if no separate shoe cabinet), heavy items, laundry basket space. Keep 12-18 inches from floor for easy access.
His and Hers Layout
For couples sharing an 8-foot wardrobe, divide into two 4-foot sections:
Her Side (Typical):
- Full-length hanging for sarees (2 feet width)
- Half-height double hanging for kurtas
- 3-4 shelves for folded items
- 2 drawers for accessories
- Jewelry tray in top drawer
His Side (Typical):
- Full-length hanging for suits (1.5 feet)
- Half-height double hanging for shirts
- Trouser pull-out (holds 15-20 pairs)
- 3 shelves for folded items
- Tie/belt holder
Material and Finish Selection
Material choice directly impacts wardrobe durability and cost. For bedroom wardrobes in Bangalore, use MR grade plywood for the carcass—it handles humidity better than particle board and lasts 15-20 years. Never use MDF or particle board for wardrobe construction.
Carcass Material Options
| Material | Cost/Sq Ft | Durability | Recommendation |
|---|---|---|---|
| MR Plywood (19mm) | ₹85-120 | 15-20 years | Recommended for all wardrobes |
| BWP Plywood (19mm) | ₹110-150 | 20+ years | Use if AC causes condensation |
| HDHMR (18mm) | ₹75-95 | 10-12 years | Only for shutter base with Duco/acrylic |
| Particle Board | ₹45-60 | 5-7 years | NOT RECOMMENDED - We don't use |
| MDF | ₹55-75 | 5-8 years | NOT RECOMMENDED - We don't use |
Hardware Specifications
Use only Hettich or Hafele hardware—these are the proven brands for long-term reliability. Generic hardware fails within 3-5 years and isn't worth the 30-40% savings.
- Soft-Close Channels: Hettich InnoTech or Hafele Matrix for drawers
- Track System: Hettich TopLine or Hafele Slido for sliding doors
- Hanging Rods: Oval profile, chrome or SS finish
- Shelf Supports: Adjustable pin type for flexibility
Size and Dimension Planning
Sliding wardrobe dimensions depend on room size, ceiling height, and storage needs. Standard depth is 24 inches (including doors), but this varies based on hanging requirements. Measure carefully before finalizing design.
Standard Dimensions
| Dimension | Standard | Minimum | Maximum |
|---|---|---|---|
| Depth (incl. doors) | 24 inches | 22 inches | 28 inches |
| Internal Depth | 20-22 inches | 18 inches | 24 inches |
| Height (to ceiling) | 8 feet | 7 feet | 10 feet |
| Door Width | 2-2.5 feet | 1.5 feet | 3 feet |
| Door Thickness | 18-25mm | 18mm | 25mm |
Room Size Guidelines
10×10 ft Bedroom: Maximum 6-foot wardrobe width. Place on wall opposite bed. Sliding doors essential—no room for door swing.
10×12 ft Bedroom: Can accommodate 8-foot wardrobe. Wall-to-wall installation possible on 10-foot wall.
12×14 ft Bedroom: 10-12 foot wardrobe possible. Consider L-shaped configuration if corner space available.
Ceiling Height Considerations
8-8.5 ft Ceiling: Standard wardrobe height (7-7.5 ft). No loft needed.
9-9.5 ft Ceiling: Add 18-24 inch loft above wardrobe for seasonal storage. Separate doors for loft section.
10+ ft Ceiling: Full-height wardrobe with accessible loft. Consider pull-down mechanism for high sections.
5 Common Mistakes Bangalore Homeowners Make
Mistake 1: Choosing Bottom-Rolling Tracks for Heavy Doors
Problem: Mirror or lacquer panels weigh 50-60 kg. Bottom-rolling tracks rated for 40 kg derail within 2 years.
Impact: Doors jam, come off track, require complete replacement (₹15,000-25,000).
Fix: Always use top-hung tracks for panels heavier than 40 kg. Invest extra ₹3,000-5,000 upfront.
Mistake 2: Using Particle Board to Save Money
Problem: Particle board costs 40% less but swells in humidity. Screws loosen, shelves sag, hardware fails.
Impact: Wardrobe needs replacement within 5-7 years. Total cost becomes higher than plywood option.
Fix: Insist on MR grade plywood. Check ISI certification mark on every sheet.
Mistake 3: Insufficient Hanging Space
Problem: Designers allocate 40% hanging space based on Western standards. Indian wardrobes need 60%+ for sarees and long garments.
Impact: Clothes get crushed, wrinkled. Need external hanging solutions.
Fix: Specify clothing inventory before design. Include 54-inch full-length section for sarees.
Mistake 4: Ignoring AC Condensation
Problem: Wardrobes on AC-facing walls develop condensation inside. MR plywood handles this, but interiors need ventilation.
Impact: Mold growth, musty smell, damaged clothes.
Fix: Add ventilation gaps in back panel. Use mothballs or silica gel packets. Consider BWP plywood for severe cases.
Mistake 5: Not Getting Itemized BOQ
Problem: Accepting "complete wardrobe ₹1.5L" without breakdown. Hidden costs for accessories, installation, taxes.
Impact: Final bill 20-30% higher. No clarity on material quality.
Fix: Demand itemized BOQ listing: plywood brand, hardware brand, finish type, accessory costs, GST, installation charges.
FAQs: Sliding Wardrobes in Bangalore
How much does a sliding wardrobe cost in Bangalore 2026?
A sliding wardrobe in Bangalore costs ₹1.2L-3L in 2026 depending on size and finish. Standard 6×7 feet wardrobe: ₹1.2-1.5L with laminate, ₹1.8-2.2L with acrylic finish, ₹2.2-3L with mirror panels. Price includes soft-close mechanism, internal fittings, and installation.
Which track system is best for sliding wardrobes?
Top-hung track systems are best for sliding wardrobes as they offer smoother operation, easier cleaning, and no floor track to trip over. Bottom-rolling tracks cost 20% less but collect dust and can derail. Use Hettich or Hafele tracks for 15+ year durability.
What is the minimum depth needed for a sliding wardrobe?
Sliding wardrobes need minimum 22-inch depth for standard hangers (20-inch hanger + 2-inch clearance). For sarees and heavy garments, 24-inch depth is recommended. Add 2 inches for the track mechanism, making total depth 24-26 inches from wall to door face.
Is sliding wardrobe better than hinged for small bedrooms?
Sliding wardrobes are better for bedrooms under 150 sq ft as they don't need 2.5 feet clearance for door swing. You can place bed closer to the wardrobe. Downside: only half the wardrobe is accessible at once. For larger rooms, hinged doors offer full-view access.
How many sliding doors should a wardrobe have?
Wardrobe width determines door count: 4-5 feet needs 2 doors, 6-8 feet needs 3 doors, 9-12 feet needs 4 doors. Each door should be 2-3 feet wide for easy handling. More doors mean more accessible space at once but higher track system costs.
What finish is best for sliding wardrobe doors?
Laminate finish offers best value at ₹850-1,200/sq ft with 10+ year durability. Acrylic gives high-gloss look at ₹1,400-1,800/sq ft. Mirror panels make rooms look larger at ₹1,600-2,200/sq ft. For premium look, lacquer/PU paint costs ₹2,000-2,800/sq ft.
Sliding Wardrobe Planning Checklist
Before Design
- Measure wall width, ceiling height, depth available
- Note location of switches, AC units, windows
- Inventory current clothing (count sarees, suits, etc.)
- List special storage needs (jewelry, watches, shoes)
- Set realistic budget with 10% buffer
During Design
- Verify top-hung track system specified
- Confirm MR grade plywood for carcass
- Check Hettich/Hafele hardware specified
- Ensure 54-inch hanging for sarees
- Review internal layout matches needs
Before Signing
- Get itemized BOQ with brand names
- Confirm total cost includes GST
- Verify installation timeline (typically 2-3 weeks)
- Check warranty terms (minimum 5 years on hardware)
- Agree on payment milestones
Key Takeaways
- Budget ₹1.2-2.5L for a quality 6×7 ft sliding wardrobe with soft-close mechanism
- Choose top-hung tracks over bottom-rolling for easier maintenance and longevity
- Use MR grade plywood for carcass—never particle board or MDF
- Plan 60% hanging space for Indian clothing needs, including full-length saree section
- Insist on Hettich/Hafele hardware for 15+ year durability
A Note to Readers: We've put together this guide to give Bangalore homeowners a practical starting point for planning their interiors. However, every home is unique—costs, timelines, and solutions depend on your specific space, requirements, and choices. We recommend using this as a reference and consulting with qualified professionals for decisions tailored to your home. After all, your home is personal, and it deserves personalised attention.
Planning a sliding wardrobe for your Bangalore home? Firms like Gunmala Interiors specialize in space-efficient wardrobes with premium hardware and transparent pricing. Visit gunmala.in to request a detailed quote with itemized BOQ.