Is your closet a chaotic mess that makes finding your favorite outfit feel like a treasure hunt? Don’t worry, you’re not alone. Many of us struggle with closet organization, but transforming that cluttered space into a neat, efficient area is easier than you might think. With some practical tips, you can maximize your closet space.
An organized closet looks amazing but it also frees up space in your mind and body. You will feel lighter and your closet will function on a higher level. Here are ten easy to implement steps to organize your closet. Not only are these steps doable but they make an impact.
1. Declutter
2. Categorize
Once you’ve decluttered, categorize your items by type and color. The first step to categorizing is putting like items together, pants, shirts, dresses and skirts. I like to put long sleeve shirts together. Doing the same with skirts and dresses. In a way grouping items by seasons. After that you can group items by color. Not only does that make the search for items easy it also looks amazing especially if you love a variety of colors.
I’m not a bright color person so my closet doesn’t look as stunning as those that love a variety of colors. If you have a spouse or partner do the same for their clothing, and of course make sure they edit their items as well. Nobody wants one half of the closet looking amazing while the other half looks like a dumpster fire.
Is sharing a closet unusual? My husband and I share a walk in closet, it’s not huge but set up really well for optimal function. We’ve shared a reach in closet plus had our own reach in closets. If you have a smaller space editing and categorizing items makes the best use of the space.
3. Invest in Matching Hangers
Invest in matching hangers to give your closet a uniform look. Slim, non-slip hangers are particularly effective as they save space and prevent your clothes from slipping off. This simple change can make your closet look instantly more organized and cohesive. If you choose the slim non-slip hangers make sure they’re the same color.
I invested in wood hangers years ago. Not only do they last forever they look amazing. There may not have been slim non-slip hangers when I purchased my wood hangers. Wooden hangers take up more space than slim velvet ones but they are really pretty. You can grab wooden hangers here and slim velvet hangers here.
4. Maximize Vertical Space
Don’t let valuable vertical space go to waste. Install additional shelves or stackable bins to store items that you don’t use every day. Overhead shelves can hold seasonal items like sweaters or infrequently used accessories like beach bags, keeping them out of the way but still accessible.
Just make sure you’re not storing items that you don’t need even if you have the space. A closet with breathing room will feel lighter. Here are some of my favorite vertical storage solutions.
Storage bins with lids, bins with metal frame, fabric storage baskets, and acrylic storage bins
5. Add a Shoe Rack
Shoes can quickly clutter up the floor of your closet. A dedicated shoe rack or organizer will keep them neatly in place and make it easier to find the pair you want. There are many styles available, from over-the-door racks to stackable shelves, to suit any space.
If you have the space and you like to DIY you can build some shoe shelves. Organize you shoe’s by seasons and style. Keep all your high heels together. Do the same with your workout shoes and summer shoes. Find shelving that fits your space. The bamboo shelf is stackable if you need or can be placed end to end. There are adjustable shelves that make fitting your needs easier.
6. Utilize Door Space
If you have a smaller closet and need extra space don’t forget to use the back of your closet door. Install hooks or a hanging organizer to store accessories, scarves, belts, or even shoes. This keeps items off the floor and shelves while making the items easily accessible.
If you have a smaller closet you need to be very intentional about what stays in your closet. Less stuff makes organization much easier than trying to find a space for all the stuff.
I love this practical and pretty door organizer. It is also a great place for shoe storage.
7. Implement Drawer Dividers or Fabric Bins
Drawer dividers are a game-changer for organizing smaller items like socks, underwear, and accessories. They prevent items from getting jumbled together and make it much easier to find what you need without digging through a mess.
You can also use fabric bins for socks, underwear and accessories. The options are endless, find what works best for you and the space that you have.
8. Store Off-Season Clothes
If you are dealing with a small closet consider storing off-season clothes elsewhere. Use vacuum-sealed bags or storage bins under your bed or in another part of your home. This frees up space in your closet for the clothes you wear regularly.
9. Use Clear Bins or Baskets for Accessories
Clear bins are perfect for storing items on shelves, as they allow you to see what’s inside at a glance. Only keep the accessories you are going to wear and enjoy. Clear bins or baskets are perfect for belts and scarves. Containing your items in bins or baskets keeps your closet looking amazing. The small things make a big difference.
10. Install a Light
A well-lit closet makes it look high end. Install a battery-operated, motion sensor LED light if your closet doesn’t already have lighting. This helps you see everything clearly, making it easier to find what you need and maintain your organization system. If you have a can light and want something a little more flashy with a kit you can make that happen. If you have more space a chandelier is a beautiful addition.
Organizing your closet doesn’t have to be a daunting task. With these ten super strategies, you can transform your closet into a well-ordered, functional space that works for you. If it seems like too much you can start with one or two steps and gradually incorporate more until your closet is the organized haven you’ve always dreamed of. After you have an organized closet make sure you keep it up, which is easier than starting. Every once and awhile do a quick scan and toss or donate worn or no longer loved items. If an article of clothing gets put in the wrong space it’s easy to notice and move it to the right spot quickly.
Not only does an organized closet function better it looks so pretty. Style and function are a perfect combination. For more organizational tips check out The power or organization, saves you time and money.
