A wardrobe can be used to store clothes that are used in everyday life.
There are several differences between a wardrobe and a closet, including appearance, intended use, and where the garment is typically placed. A cabinet can be any piece in a wide variety of furniture that is used to store cookware and utensils or other items for display; these include plates, china, religious items, and small items of clothing that can be folded. During medieval times, cabinets were used to display items that displayed the wealth of the owner. Closets are a specific type of closet used to store garments that are easily folded or used for everyday use. Closets are usually placed in living rooms or kitchens, while cabinets are placed in more private spaces, such as bedrooms.
The cabinets can be used to store kitchen items such as plates, glasses and cutlery.
Looking closely at the two pieces can provide clues to help distinguish between a wardrobe and a closet. During the 18th century, the freestanding cabinet typically had four doors at the top and three drawers at the bottom. Kitchen cabinets, then and now, are smaller and simpler, with only one or two doors with shelves inside. A closet also only has one or two doors, but it is quite large and usually has a mirror attached to at least one of the doors.
A closet is just one of several types of closet that have evolved over the years. The development of this piece of furniture comes from the hanging press and the linen closet. Both the hanger and the linen closet are types of closets that are used to store bedding or small items of clothing. A closet stores clothes that need to be hung or worn every day. During the 18th century, the wardrobe was used to store heavy and easily wrinkled clothing.
Location is also important when identifying a closet and wardrobe. Freestanding cabinets are placed in areas of the home frequented by visitors, such as the living room or entryway. Built-in cabinets are the most common in the kitchen. Closets can be freestanding or built-in, but are usually found in more private areas within the home, such as the bedroom, attic, or a quiet hallway.
A wardrobe and a closet are similar types of storage furniture. Both are square pieces, which can make it difficult to tell the difference between a cabinet and a cupboard. Taking a closer look at the characteristics of storage pieces and identifying their use and where they are placed can help distinguish one from another.
