Install Renter-Friendly Shelves Like a Pro—Here's What You Need

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Making a rental apartment feel personalized can be tricky when you also want to prioritize getting your deposit back. You might not be able to knock down walls for a Beauty and the Beast style floor-to-ceiling bookcase, but there are still ways to add extra storage and make your space feel more like your own. A few renter-friendly shelves could be the difference between your apartment feeling like an Airbnb and feeling like home.

One of the main benefits of installing renter-friendly shelving is the extra storage space. They take advantage of oft-overlooked vertical real estate to keep your essentials within reach. Beyond storage, though, these shelves are great for display purposes. Show off art, design-forward coffee table books, or various plants, and have the freedom to switch out and reposition items as your taste changes.

Installing these shelves without incurring the ire of your landlord is a delicate balance, though, so luckily, we’ve got some expert advice for you. We spoke to Suzanna Schumacher, the co-founder of innovative DIY company Character, for tips on installing renter-friendly shelves that will help you protect and upgrade your apartment walls. Schumacher also gave us a glimpse of the products she reaches for to add some landlord-approved upgrades, and her shopping cart is stocked.

Scroll on for everything you need to know to add renter-friendly shelves to your space, including our favorite shelves, the tools you should have on hand, and what to remember before starting any DIY project.

The Best Shelves for Renters

If you are relatively new to DIY and a little nervous about installing the shelves yourself, Schumacher offers reassurance. "We recommend starting with bracket shelves for first-time installers, which are slightly easier than floating shelves to mount because the hardware is designed to be visible," Schumacher explains. "This makes it easier to install and easier to level your shelf as you go, whereas floating shelves require all hardware to be installed first and the shelf mounted on it second."

Rustic Bracket Shelves

Wall-Mounted Shelf

Doddington 2-Piece Bracket Shelf

Floating Shelves

But if you have a steady hand and precision, you can definitely add in a floating shelf. It will save you a lot of room if you can't squeeze in a bookshelf or plant stand, and the lack of visible hardware gives a more minimal look. When adding these wall-mounted pieces to your home, remember to determine and mark your shelf placement ahead of time, as well as trace the screw holes of your bracket before you start drilling.

Floating Wall Shelf

Floating Shelves

Robin Solid Wood Floating Shelf

Floating Shelves

Where to Install Shelves in a Rental

If you are looking for inspiration on where your shelf should be installed, prioritize the areas where you need extra storage space. Schumacher suggests a kitchen wall for your go-to seasonings and utensils, or at your bedside as an alternative to bulkier nightstands. You can also use wall-mounted shelves in the bathroom for your personal items or plant life. Why stop there? "A small shelf with hooks near an entryway can be a “drop zone” when you come in from outside for keys and wallets," Schumacher says. "Or behind doors and in closets for extra storage space for pantry and other items."

What Tools Are Needed to Install Shelves in a Rental?

Chances are, most of the tools you need are already in your home tool kit, or they'll come with the shelf itself. Below, find everything you'll need (and what you'll actually use them for).

• Power drill and correctly sized bit for your project (for drilling pilot holes or screws into your wall)

• Screwdriver (for inserting screws into anchors, if you use those)

• Hammer (to test for studs or tap in drywall anchors)

• Stud finder (to locate studs on your walls)

• Level (to ensure your shelves are level)

• Measuring tape (to measure for shelf placement)

• Painter’s tape and/or a pencil (to mark shelf or hardware location)

• Supplies you will need that usually come with your shelf: wall anchors—for installing shelves when not using a stud—as well as screws and other mounting hardware

V20 Cordless Drill/Driver Kit

Magnetic Screwdrivers Set

Electronic Stud Finder with LED Light Indicator

2 Piece Hammer Set

Self Lock 25-Foot Power Tape

Laser Level Ruler

Magnetic Screwdrivers Set

0.7 inch Paint Tape

Self Drilling Drywall Anchors

Drill Bit Set

2 Piece Hammer Set

Laser Level Ruler

0.7 inch Paint Tape

Self Drilling Drywall Anchors

Tips for Starting a DIY Project

As excited as you are to transform your home with some DIY shelving, remember to take your time—and save yourself potentially expensive headaches later. "When starting a new project, take the time to do research and proper planning—both about your home and its specific requirements and the project and what that entails. Character offers on-call experts who are a great resource as every project is personal to your home and your experience," Schumacher says. Below, we have a few more tips to keep in mind on your DIY journey.

• Consider if you need help with the project! Treat your roommate to lunch for helping you install your shelves.

• Take note of what safety gear you should wear and what precautions you should take, both for yourself and your space. Safety glasses, closed-toe shoes, and gloves are are always a good idea!

• Be patient with yourself, especially if you're a beginner. Everyone makes mistakes and learns during the process of projects! It’s part of the game and the payoff is huge when you accomplish something new yourself.

• Know your limits when it comes to DIY projects. While there are many projects you can do yourself, knowing when to call a professional can save you from making costly mistakes.

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