Bamboo Clothes Ladder: Functional Tool

Last Updated on February 7, 2025 by teamobn

Here’s one DIY idea inspired by repurposed ladders used for hanging towels. If you don’t have an old ladder to repurpose and want a rustic look, then gather some bamboo and start making your own ladder!

This is also a great little storage or rack idea in the bedroom for scarves and ties. It’s easy to make, sturdy, light weight, easily moved, space-saving and beautiful – what’s not to love?

How would you use this DIY bamboo clothes ladder hanger? 🙂

Building a Bamboo Clothes Ladder

Materials:

• 2 long Bamboo poles (about 38mm diameter, 180cm tall)
• 3 smaller Bamboo sticks (about 20mm diameter, 90cm tall)
• Twine – natural
• Scissors
• Saw
• Sandpaper
• Ruler
• Marker

Steps:

Measure the smaller bamboo sticks and cut them in half so that you have 6 small sticks.

Use the saw to cut off any ends which are not flat.

Use sandpaper to saw off any rough edges.

Then measure out your poles so your cross poles are spaced evenly over your tall poles. I made mine approximately 30cm apart  Try to be as accurate as possible.

Use the twine to make square lashings to fasten the cross poles with the uprights as tightly as possible.

I found this excellent page on how to tie the knot: Square Lashing

As you can see from the photo, I added a cross in the middle. This cross is not necessary for the ladder to be solid. I did if for decorative purposes only.
If you are following the page on how to tie a square lashing, between step 12 and 13, I wound my twine diagonally across the top of the small pole, then straight under the upright a couple of times to get the effect.

Lash each cross pole onto the uprights, the same distance apart. Make sure your uprights are parallel.

Once your work is complete, you may need to move some of your cross poles if they are not quite in the right place. It is easier to move them horizontally than vertically.

Simply hold the upright tight, and maneuver the cross pole to where you want it. You may have to wiggle it a little. Once you’re done, you can lean it against a wall and hang things on it.

Unless you use extremely strong materials and your lashings are fantastic, please don’t attempt to actually use it as a ladder.

Thanks to MissMonkeyXXX for this great tutorial!

Creative Uses for a Bamboo Clothes Ladder

A bamboo clothes ladder is more than just a stylish way to organize your space. It’s a lightweight, versatile storage solution that can add a natural and rustic charm to any room. Whether you’re looking for functional organization or decorative appeal, a bamboo ladder can serve multiple purposes beyond just hanging clothes. Here are some creative ways to use this DIY piece in your home.

A Towel Rack in the Bathroom

Bathrooms often lack convenient towel storage, especially in small spaces. A bamboo clothes ladder can be leaned against a wall to hold fresh towels, keeping them within easy reach. The natural bamboo adds a spa-like aesthetic, making your bathroom feel more relaxed and organized. If space is tight, a compact ladder can fit even in narrow areas, offering a practical and decorative solution for towel storage.

An Organizer for Scarves, Hats, and Ties

Closets can quickly become cluttered, especially with accessories like scarves, hats, and ties. Instead of shoving these items into drawers or bins, drape them over the rungs of a bamboo ladder. This keeps them neatly displayed and easy to grab when needed. The ladder serves as a simple yet elegant way to keep accessories organized while adding a decorative touch to your bedroom or dressing area.

A Minimalist Bookshelf

A bamboo ladder can be repurposed as a unique bookshelf for lightweight books and magazines. Simply lean the ladder against the wall and place books or rolled-up magazines on the rungs. For a more secure setup, you can attach small shelves or wooden planks between the rungs. This setup works particularly well in small apartments or reading nooks where space is limited.

A Cozy Blanket Display

In the living room or bedroom, a bamboo ladder makes a perfect blanket rack. Instead of folding and stacking blankets in a closet, drape them over the ladder for easy access. This not only keeps them neatly arranged but also adds a warm and inviting feel to the room. If you have a collection of colorful or textured blankets, this display can become a statement piece that enhances your décor.

A Boho-Style Plant Stand

Indoor plants bring life and freshness into a home, and a bamboo ladder can serve as a stylish plant stand. Small potted plants, trailing vines, or air plants can be placed on or around the rungs to create a vertical garden. Hanging planters can also be attached using hooks or macramé holders for an added decorative touch. This setup works well in living rooms, patios, or even bathrooms with enough natural light.

A Space-Saving Entryway Organizer

If your entryway lacks storage, a bamboo ladder can act as a quick and functional solution. Hang coats, bags, or umbrellas on the rungs for a stylish yet practical way to keep essentials organized. You can also attach small baskets for storing keys, gloves, or other small items, reducing clutter while maintaining a minimalist aesthetic.

A Unique Display for String Lights

For a cozy and ambient look, wrap string lights around the bamboo ladder and place it in a bedroom or living space. The lights create a soft glow, making the room feel warm and inviting. This idea works especially well in kids’ rooms or as a creative nightlight alternative. If you enjoy seasonal décor, you can swap out the lights for holiday-themed decorations throughout the year.

A bamboo clothes ladder is more than just a functional storage piece. It’s a creative and adaptable addition to any home, offering both practicality and style. Whether used for organization, decoration, or both, this DIY ladder can enhance any space while maintaining its natural, rustic charm.

Choosing the Right Bamboo for Your DIY Ladder

Building a bamboo clothes ladder requires selecting the right type of bamboo to ensure durability, stability, and an appealing rustic look. Not all bamboo is created equal, and choosing the wrong type can lead to weak or brittle structures. Understanding the different factors involved in selecting bamboo will help you create a sturdy and long-lasting DIY ladder.

Selecting High-Quality Bamboo

When choosing bamboo for your ladder, opt for mature poles that are at least three to five years old. Younger bamboo tends to be more flexible and prone to splitting over time. Look for poles with a uniform diameter and a smooth, unblemished surface. Bamboo with deep green or golden hues indicates better quality, while overly dry or cracked bamboo may be brittle and weak.

The thickness of the bamboo walls is also important. Thicker-walled bamboo is stronger and can support more weight. For ladder uprights, bamboo poles with a diameter of around 38mm (1.5 inches) work best, while crossbars should be slightly thinner, around 20mm (0.8 inches).

Drying and Treating Bamboo

Freshly cut bamboo contains moisture and natural sugars that attract insects and fungi. If not properly treated, it can rot or become infested over time. To prevent this, it’s essential to dry and cure the bamboo before using it for your ladder.

One method is air-drying the bamboo by placing it in a dry, shaded area with good airflow for several weeks. This allows the bamboo to lose excess moisture gradually, reducing the risk of splitting. If you need to speed up the process, you can use heat curing, which involves exposing the bamboo to indirect heat or lightly torching the surface to harden it.

To further protect your bamboo, consider soaking it in a borax-boric acid solution for a few days. This helps eliminate insects and prevents mold growth. Once dry, applying a clear wood sealant or varnish can enhance durability and longevity.

Preventing Splitting and Cracking

Bamboo has a tendency to crack or split, especially when exposed to extreme temperatures and humidity. To minimize this risk, avoid placing your ladder in direct sunlight or overly humid areas. When cutting bamboo, use a fine-toothed saw and wrap the cutting area with masking tape before making a cut. This reduces the likelihood of fraying and keeps the bamboo intact.

Sanding the edges after cutting is also important. Rough or splintered edges can make the ladder look unfinished and cause potential injuries. A medium-grit sandpaper works well to smooth out any rough spots.

Sourcing Bamboo: Local vs. Online Stores

If you live in an area where bamboo grows naturally, sourcing locally is the best option. Visit garden centers, bamboo farms, or specialty wood suppliers to inspect the quality before purchasing. If buying online, ensure the supplier provides treated and dried bamboo poles. Check reviews and product descriptions to confirm durability.

Bamboo sold in craft stores is often decorative and may not be strong enough for structural use. If purchasing from a home improvement store, look for bamboo poles designed for fencing or construction, as these are typically sturdier and better suited for a DIY ladder.

Choosing the right bamboo for your project ensures that your ladder remains sturdy, attractive, and long-lasting. With proper selection, treatment, and maintenance, your DIY bamboo clothes ladder will be a functional and stylish addition to your home.

Alternative Fastening Techniques for a Stronger Ladder

Using twine to lash bamboo poles together gives a rustic and natural look, but it may not always provide the strongest hold. Consider alternative fastening techniques if you want to reinforce your bamboo clothes ladder for better durability and stability. These methods ensure that your ladder remains sturdy over time while maintaining its aesthetic appeal.

Using Wood Glue for a Secure Bond

Wood glue is an excellent option for strengthening the joints between bamboo poles. A high-quality, waterproof wood glue creates a strong bond and prevents movement over time. To use this method:

• Lightly sand the areas where the poles will connect to improve adhesion.
• Apply wood glue to the joint before wrapping it with twine or rope for added reinforcement.
• Let the glue dry completely before moving or using the ladder.

This method helps prevent loosening over time and works well with other fastening techniques.

Reinforcing with Screws or Wooden Dowels

For a stronger structure, consider using screws or wooden dowels to attach the rungs to the side poles. This method works well if you need extra support beyond lashing or gluing.

• Screws: Drill pilot holes through the bamboo to prevent splitting, then use stainless steel or brass screws to fasten the rungs to the uprights. This method ensures a strong and permanent hold. You can hide the screw heads by covering them with twine or using wood filler.
• Wooden Dowels: Instead of screws, drill matching holes in both the rung and upright, then insert a glued wooden dowel for a clean and natural look. This method creates a tight joint and avoids visible hardware.

Adding Bamboo Pegs for Traditional Strength

Bamboo pegs offer an alternative to metal screws, keeping the entire structure natural. This technique has been used in traditional bamboo construction for centuries.

• Cut small bamboo dowels or pegs that fit tightly into pre-drilled holes.
• Apply wood glue before inserting the peg into the hole.
• Trim any excess and sand the surface for a smooth finish.

This technique maintains the aesthetic of an all-bamboo structure while adding significant strength.

Securing with Zip Ties for Quick Assembly

If you need a fast and adjustable fastening method, zip ties can hold the rungs in place securely. They may not look as decorative as twine, but they are strong and easy to install.

• Use heavy-duty, UV-resistant zip ties to prevent breakage over time.
• Tighten the ties around the joints, ensuring the ladder remains stable.
• Cut off the excess plastic for a cleaner look.

This method is ideal for temporary or lightweight ladders but may not be as aesthetically pleasing as natural fastenings.

Applying a Clear Protective Finish

Regardless of the fastening method you choose, adding a clear protective finish helps improve durability. A coat of polyurethane, linseed oil, or bamboo sealant can prevent weather damage and protect the joints from loosening due to humidity.

A bamboo clothes ladder should be both strong and visually appealing. By combining traditional lashing with modern reinforcements like screws, glue, or dowels, you can create a ladder that is sturdy enough to last while still maintaining a natural and minimalist design.

Conclusion

Building a bamboo clothes ladder is a simple yet rewarding DIY project that blends functionality with natural aesthetics. With the right bamboo selection, strong fastening techniques, and proper finishing, your ladder can be both durable and visually appealing. Whether used for storage or decoration, this handcrafted piece adds a unique and space-saving touch to any home.

We have more ways to dry your laundry and save space. Check out our wall-mounted drying rack project next!