Could your closet use some attention? Whether you have a large walk-in or a smaller closet space, there are ways to make the most out of the space you have so your closet will no longer be in disarray. Read 1-800-PACK-RAT's tips on how to organize your closet to bring order back to your wardrobe!
Part 1: Downsize
Remove Everything
It's best to start organizing your closet by emptying out and removing everything completely. Once all your belongings have been taken out, you'll get a better idea of how much space you realistically have inside your closet and how many items you have. Chances are, there are some things that you rarely use or wear, so don't expend your energy finding a home for these belongings inside your newly organized closet!
Donate Clothing
With each article of clothing or accessory in your closet ask these six questions: Does it fit? Does it flatter me? Is it in good condition? Have I worn it recently? Do I feel confident when I wear it? Does it represent me? If the answer to more than a few of these questions is no, then it might be time to donate this item.
Store Elsewhere
Not all items should be stored in your closet. If you are working with a relatively small closet, you may want to re-home some items to different locations to save room. Try to cycle out seasonal clothing into bags or compartments that you can keep under your bed so that only season-appropriate clothes are taking up space in your closet. Have a lot of shoes? Perhaps you should keep a shoe rack in the hall closet close to the door for easy access.
Part 2: Rework Space
Add Shelves
A quick and easy way to gain extra surface area for storing your belongings is to install shelves. You can make this a quick and simple DIY project, or you can get a professional to install custom shelving. Whichever direction you choose, adding shelves will give you designated areas to store extra shoes, accessories, toiletries - the possibilities are endless!
Add Extra Rods or Brackets
Placing additional rods or brackets in your closet will give you more places to hang miscellaneous items. Use the rods to knot scarves or hang belts so that these belongings don't end up laying on the floor. You can also fix brackets to any unused wall space to provide even more hanging space for pants or shorts.
Additional Drawers
Drawer space is crucial inside of a closet. If you have a walk-in, or if space permits, consider moving your dresser into your closet area. Doing this will free up space in your bedroom and provide plenty of clothing storage. There are also smaller portable drawers that you can purchase if your closet is on the smaller side. These will help increase the amount of clothes you can keep in the closet because you will not have to rely solely on hanging space.
Part 3: Space-Saving Hacks
Use Chain
Why hang one shirt when you can easily hang five or more in the same area? Take advantage of the space each hanger uses by placing a chain on your hangers or through an S-hook. You can insert a new hanger through each link of the chain going down so that you can fully use the vertical space in your closet.
Use Lid Rack
Repurpose a lid rack from your kitchen to hold various clutches or purses. Just slip a clutch into each slot intended for a pot lid, and all your purses, bags, and clutches will be displayed beautifully.
Use Molding
Get your heels up and off the floor by installing a few rows of crown molding on the wall of your closet. Place the heels of your shoes over the lip of the crown molding and let the toe of your shoe rest on the wall. Not only will your shoes be out of the way, but they will also create a feature wall inside of your closet.