You’re touring a home, and you step into a room that looks like it could be a bedroom—plenty of space, a window, maybe even a door leading to the hallway. But then you notice something missing—there’s no closet. Does a room need a closet to be considered a bedroom, or is it technically an office, den, or an extra room? The answer isn’t always straightforward—it depends on local building codes, real estate guidelines, and even how the home is marketed. Let’s break down what actually qualifies as a bedroom.
What are the legal requirements for a bedroom?
To be classified as a bedroom, a room typically needs to meet specific criteria. While requirements vary, here are some common standards:
- Minimum size: Many jurisdictions require a bedroom to have at least 70 square feet with a minimum width of 7 feet in any direction, though this can vary depending on your location.
- Egress (emergency exit): A bedroom must have at least one operable window or exterior door for emergency escape and rescue.
- Ceiling height: The ceiling should generally be at least 7 feet high in at least 50% of the room.
- Ventilation: Adequate airflow is required, typically provided by a window.
- Lighting and electrical access: Building codes often require a bedroom to have at least one permanent light fixture and at least two electrical outlets.
What about a closet?
So where does that leave closet space? If a room checks all the legal boxes but lacks built-in storage, does it still count as a bedroom? It’s common to expect a closet as part of a functional bedroom, however, it’s not legally required for a room to be classified as a bedroom in most areas.
Does a bedroom have to have a closet?
To address the burning question—does a room need a closet to be considered a bedroom? Not exactly. While many people assume a closet is a must-have, it’s not always a legal requirement. In most cases, building codes focus on safety and functionality rather than storage, meaning a room can still qualify as a bedroom without one. As long as it meets the key criteria—adequate space, proper ventilation, and an emergency exit—it can be considered a bedroom.
That said, expectations can vary depending on the local housing market. For example, New York City mandates specific square footage and egress requirements but does not require a closet. California’s residential code does not explicitly require closets but enforces egress and ventilation standards. Many Texas cities do not require closets, though buyers typically expect them in listed bedrooms. Checking local building codes or consulting a real estate agent is the best way to confirm specific requirements.
Real estate listings often reflect what buyers anticipate, and many people associate a bedroom with built-in storage. So while a closet may not be legally required, it’s often a practical feature that adds value to a space. However, if a room lacks a built-in closet, there are plenty of creative ways to add functional storage in stylish ways.
Making the most of closet-free bedrooms
You’ve fallen in love with a home, but you’re unsure about a bedroom without a closet. Don’t let that be a dealbreaker—there are plenty of stylish and functional alternatives that not only provide storage solutions but also elevate the room’s aesthetic appeal.
Keep things organized
One of the first steps in navigating a closet-less room is finding smart ways to stay organized. Without a designated storage space, it’s all about maximizing what you have. Professional organizers at Lavender Organizes, offering decluttering and organizing services to help create a system that works for your space and lifestyle, share practical tips to keep your space clutter-free while making the most of every inch:
- Multi-functional furniture: Use furniture like storage ottomans or beds with drawers to save space.
- Shelves: Install shelves on walls for books and decorative items to keep the floor clear.
- Baskets and bins: Use stylish baskets to store items and label them for easy access.
- Hooks: Add wall hooks or a pegboard to hang bags, hats, or accessories.
- Create zones: Divide the room into areas for sleeping, working, and relaxing to keep things organized.
Coordinate your design with your storage
Worried that extra storage will disrupt your bedroom’s style? With the right choices, organization can actually enhance your space. Ellen B. Designs, an Annapolis-based interior design firm, offers her design expertise.
“There are many pieces that could match the style and color of your bedroom furniture. For instance, there are beautiful armoires, wardrobes and dressers that are loaded with extra storage. You can also place matching ottomans at the end of your bed as a bench and to provide storage inside. Many ottomans come in unique patterns and colors to tie everything together. A coat rack would also be a cute addition to a corner to hang hats, jackets and purses.”
She continues, “For something more discreet, there are many options for storage containers that slide under the bed. If not, then floating shelves are great to display your shoe collection, which can be décor in itself. Plus, clothing bars are perfect for what you can hang. Add a shelf over the clothing bar to add additional space and décor to complete the look.”
Enhance your storage solutions
Take your alternative storage solutions to another level and enhance bedroom organization with Docking Drawer outlets. These outlets can be seamlessly installed into nightstands, dressers, or closet drawers, creating convenient charging stations for your everyday and wearable tech. Made with durable all-metal construction and advanced safety features, they include a patented automatic shutoff to prevent overheating. If you’re looking for faster charging, a USB-C (PD) configuration is available to quickly power up your devices, all while reducing the clutter of cords, keeping your surfaces tidy and adding extra functionality to your storage.
What buyers and sellers should know
While there are great alternatives for bedrooms without closets, it’s still important for homebuyers and sellers to understand how this can affect the value and functionality of the space.
For buyers, it’s essential to consider whether closet space is a must-have or if they’re open to creative storage solutions. If you’re evaluating a room that lacks a closet, ask yourself: Is a closet essential, or can I adapt with things like wardrobes, built-ins, or under-bed storage? The flexibility of the space might outweigh the lack of a traditional closet, especially if the room meets your other key needs.
For sellers, transparency is key. Clearly communicate the features of each room in your home, including whether a closet is included or not. If a room lacks a built-in closet but offers functional storage options, such as shelving or a large wardrobe, highlight those features to help potential buyers envision the room’s potential. Offering storage hacks, like tips on maximizing vertical space or utilizing multi-purpose furniture, can make a room feel just as functional as one with a closet.
Appraisers determine a home’s value based on comparable sales, so if homes in the area have bedroom closets, a home without them may appraise for less. However, if rooms without closets is common in the neighborhood, the impact may be minimal.
Final verdict: Closet or no closet, it can still be a bedroom
So, does a bedroom have to have a closet? The answer is no, and that doesn’t need to be a red flag. While legal requirements vary, a bedroom is ultimately defined by its functionality—size, safety, and livability matter more than built-in storage. With creative alternatives like wardrobes, dressers, and under-bed storage, a closet-less bedroom can still be stylish and practical. Whether you’re buying, selling, or simply reimagining a space, the right setup can make any room feel like home.