Step-by-Step Guide to Organizing Your Closet
18
Oct 2024
A clean and organized closet can do wonders for your daily routine, making it easier to find your clothes and accessories while reducing stress. By following this step-by-step guide, you’ll transform your closet into a functional, clutter-free space.
1. Set Aside Time
Allocate a few hours to dedicate to cleaning and organizing. Make sure you have enough time to finish the task without feeling rushed. For a thorough approach, you might want to break down the process into stages over a few days.
2. Empty the Closet
Take everything out of your closet. This will help you start with a clean slate and see all the items you own. Lay them out on your bed or floor. It’s also a great opportunity to visualize the space you have available.
3. Clean the Closet
Dust the shelves, wipe down any surfaces, and vacuum or sweep the floor. You’ll want to start with a completely clean space before organizing. If you’re looking for eco-friendly cleaning products, check out this list of natural cleaning solutions that are safe for your home and the environment.
4. Sort Your Clothes and Accessories
Create piles by sorting your items into categories: keep, donate, sell and toss. Keep items you love, wear often and are in good condition. Donate or sell clothes that don’t fit, are out of style or you haven’t worn in over a year but are in good condition. You can donate to local charities or use resale platforms like Poshmark for selling. Toss items that are damaged, stained or worn beyond repair. For tips on recylcing textiles instead of tossing them, visit Recycle Nation.
5. Access Your Storage Space
Look at your closet layout. Access the hanging space, shelves, and drawers. Decide if you need extra storage solutions such as bins, baskets, or shoe racks. Storage solutions designed for small spaces can help maximize your closet’s potential.
6. Categorize Items by Type
Group your clothing and accessories by type (e.g., shirts, pants, dresses, shoes, bags). This makes it easier to organize and locate specific items. If you’re into capsule wardrobes, organizing by type also helps you mix and match more easily.
7. Use Matching Hangers
Using matching hangers gives your closet a uniform look, making it visually appealing and functional. Slim, non-slip hangers not only save space but also keep your clothes from falling off. You can find high-quality, affordable hangers here.
8. Maximize Hanger Space
Use vertical hanging space for longer items like dresses and coats. Install a second rod or use space-saving hangers for tops, skirts, and pants.
9. Organize Shelves
Fold and stack: Sweaters, jeans, and T-shirts can be folded neatly and stacked on shelves. Use shelf dividers to keep piles from toppling over and to create designated spaces. If you need help folding like a pro, check out this folding tutorial.
10. Use Drawers and Bins for Accessories
Store smaller items like scarves, belts, hats, and handbags in bins or baskets. Consider drawer dividers for accessories like jewelry, socks, and underwear to keep everything tidy. Here’s a drawer organizers that work perfectly for these items.
11. Organize Shoes
Use a shoe rack, shelves, or clear plastic shoe boxes to organize your shoes. Arrange them by type or color to make it easier to find what you need. For more inspiration, check out stylish shoe storage ideas.
12. Rotate for the Season
Store off-season clothing (e.g., winter coats, boots) in bins, on higher shelves, or in a storage unit. Keep only current seasonal items in easy reach.
13. Label Storage Bins
Label bins, baskets, or shelves for easy identification. This makes it easier to stay organized and find specific items quickly. Labeling solutions can also be stylish—consider using chalkboard labels or printable ones.
14. Consider Vertical Space
Utilize the back of the closet door for hanging hooks to store items like hats, bags, or jewelry. You can also add over-the-door shoe racks for additional space. Check out these vertical storage solutions to make the most of every inch.
15. Maintain Regularly
Regularly go through your closet to remove items you no longer wear and keep everything in order. A monthly or quarterly tidy-up can prevent clutter from building up again. If you want to keep things streamlined, read our tips on how to maintain an organized home.
By following these steps, you’ll create a closet that’s easy to navigate, and maintaining the organization will become second nature. Whether you’re overhauling a small space or tackling a walk-in closet, this guide will help you keep things neat and functional. Ready to get started? Grab some supplies and check out our self-storage options if you need extra space for off-season items or less frequently used belongings.