It is important to think carefully about your storage needs before choosing the best canvas wardrobe. Think about the amount of space you will need for storage, but also consider the room in which you plan to place the canvas wardrobe: you may be limited by available space in the room, and external factors such as moisture that is likely to be present in a garage or basement may have an effect on your choice of frame materials. Start by measuring the space in which the unit will be placed carefully to find out how large of a unit you can consider purchasing.
Once you have determined what size canvas wardrobe you need, think about different storage options. Many wardrobes feature shelves as well as hanging rods for hanging clothing, so you will need to consider what you will be storing to make the best decision on what features to include. Consider purchasing a canvas wardrobe with a zip-up front to ensure the clothing inside stays protected and sealed when not being accessed. The zipper provides quick and easy access when you do need to get into the wardrobe as well. A heavy duty zipper is best for standing up to the rigors of regular use.
Perhaps one of the most important considerations when choosing a canvas wardrobe is the choice of materials used to build the frame. Wood, plastic, and metal are all commonly used for frame construction, and each has distinct advantages and disadvantages. Wood is a good choice because it is easy to assemble, can be modified if necessary, is usually visually attractive, and can have some water- and bug-resistant qualities. It is not the best choice for use in a damp environment such as a garage or basement, since it is more susceptible to rot and mold. Plastic is resistant to rot and mold, and it is usually quite inexpensive, but it is often not the strongest choice. Metal is a good choice of frame materials because it is stable and usually fairly attractive. Some metals are even resistant to water damage, and mold is less likely to build up on metal.
Consider structural options such as casters or hanging hooks. Some canvas wardrobe models feature casters, or small wheels, for easy transport of the entire wardrobe unit. Other, smaller wardrobes feature no base but instead hanging hooks, allowing you to hang the unit from a hanging rod or other stable structure. Some simply feature metal or rubber feet that rest directly on the ground.