Homeowners have several options when choosing bedroom closet doors. Sliding doors are found in many homes, but they only offer access to one section of a closet at a time. Regular hinged doors can also be used, but these may limit the placement of decor or furniture just outside of the closet. Bi-fold doors and accordion doors, which fold onto themselves, are also available, and these may offer better access to closet interiors.
Sliding doors, or bypass doors, are one of the most popular types of bedroom closet doors. They are not attached to the door frame on either side like hinged doors, but instead, wheels on top of the doors are set into tracks attached to the door frame. When one door slides, it moves in front of another door or panel. Usually, there are only two sliding doors on one track, but there could be as many as three or four.
One disadvantage to these types of closet doors is that an individual only has access to about half of a closet when one door is open. Pocket doors are similar, and they slide into a recessed pocket in the door frame. Mirrored sliding bedroom doors are also available, although they are typically more expensive. A large expanse of mirrors on a wall, however, can help a small bedroom appear larger.
Bedroom closet doors can also be hinged to attach the doors to the door frames, and they usually open out into the bedroom. Individuals will usually be able to access most of the closet with these types of doors, and shoe racks or mirrors can be hung on the inside or outside of the doors. Since they swing outward, however, many individuals will find it more difficult to place furniture next to the closet.
Bi-fold doors consist of two tall, narrow panels that are hinged together. When these doors are opened, they fold over on each other. Bi-fold doors allow easy access to the closet, and they can make it easy to place furniture around the door.
Accordion doors are also used as bedroom closet doors. Several narrow vinyl slats, usually around 1 to 3 inches (2.5 to 7.6 centimeters) wide, are hinged together to make these doors. As the doors are pushed to one side, the slats fold onto each other. While these doors offer easy access to a closet and are generally economical, some individuals may find them aesthetically unappealing.