Are you wanting a fresh start but, when looking at it all you’re not sure where to start? Our goal is to help you make your start! Sometimes, that is half the work. But when you begin, let’s make sure you have direction to make it worth it!
Today our focus is closets. Whether you have a walk-in wardrobe or a small reach-in closet, or your project is a hallway or work closet, these fool-proof closet organizing tips will help you optimize your space, reduce clutter, and bring ease to your comings and goings.
1. Declutter First
Before you start thinking about how to organize, it’s important to clear out the unnecessary items. Start by pulling everything out of your closet and sorting through it. With clothing, ask yourself:
- Do I wear this?
- Does it fit me?
- Is it in good condition?
Be ruthless—if it’s not serving a purpose, donate it, sell it, or toss it. Try your best to zip through this (especially with everyday items or clothing)-- not to make yourself feel rushed, but to avoid the decision-fatigue that comes with overthinking.
2. Maximize Vertical Space
If you’re working with a narrow closet, don’t forget to take advantage of the vertical space! Install extra shelves, hanging rods, or even hooks above the main rack to store items that you don’t need to access daily, such as seasonal clothes, old documents, outdoor games, or seasonal decor.
By utilizing every inch of your closet—from the floor to the ceiling—you can keep items organized while maintaining a streamlined and clutter-free environment. Plus, it will be so much easier to access the things you use regularly, knowing everything has a designated spot!
3. Group Similar Items Together
To make it easier to find what you need, group similar items together by category. For example, if doing a clothing closet:
- Tops (blouses, t-shirts, sweaters)
- Bottoms (jeans, skirts, shorts)
- Dresses
- Shoes
With a miscellaneous closet, groupings may look like:
- Documents
- Office supplies
- Seasonal decor
- Craft supplies, etc.
Within each category, you can further organize by color or style to make it even easier to grab what you’re looking for. This system will help you visually see what you have and avoid buying duplicates.
4. Use Bins, & Label those Bins!
All the small bits are what tend to clutter up a closet quickly. Using clear bins to store smaller items like accessories (hats, scarves, etc.), hardware, or office supplies, is particularly helpful because you can see exactly what’s inside at a glance. Don’t underestimate having matching bins for a more uniform look! It may be worth spending the extra $10-$50 to get bins that go together.
Consider labeling bins to give everything a designated place. This is especially useful for seasonal items that don’t need to be accessed often, or for small items from office and art supplies.
5. Keep Seasonal Items Stored Separately
When the weather changes, so do our wardrobes and often our homes! Instead of crowding your main closets with seasonal clothing or decor, store out-of-season items in bins in under-bed storage containers or, where possible, a garage. This will free up space for the clothing you’re currently wearing, and help you easily access what you need when the season changes. Additionally, it feels like such a win to open a bin of “brand new” items you haven’t seen since last year!
Label your storage containers, so you know exactly where everything is when it’s time to switch season.
6. Use Drawer Dividers for Small Items
For closet drawers or shelves, drawer dividers can be a game-changer for organizing small items. Dividers come in all shapes and sizes, allowing you to create compartments that fit your specific needs. You can even use small boxes or trays for things like jewelry or art supplies.
Having a designated spot for each item prevents things from getting jumbled up and makes it easier to maintain order.
7. Routine Maintenance is Key
Finally, keep your closet organized by maintaining it regularly. Often just a few minutes at the end of your day goes miles! Do the “5 Minute Tidy”, refold or rehang clothes, put supplies away, and reorganize any items that may have shifted out of place. A few minutes of upkeep is all it takes to keep your closet looking pristine and ready to go!
A well-organized closet isn’t just about aesthetics—it’s about function and making your daily life easier. When your space is organized, it helps your day run smooth. From removing any stress from getting ready, to spending less time looking for things. By applying these tangible tips, you’ll be able to transform your closet into a space that’s as beautiful as it is practical.
Are you ready to tackle your closet? Start here, and enjoy the process of creating a space that works for you!
If you found these closet organizing tips helpful, be sure to check out more of our blog posts for additional organizing and decluttering advice. Don’t forget to share this post with friends who might need a little closet inspiration!
