How to Organize a Closet
Most homes have a closet in every room, under the stairs, hall closets, coat closets, etc. That can add up to a lot of closet space and for some of us end up becoming a catchall for whatever it is you don't want lying around in plain sight.
This method can leave your living space looking clean and organized but what does it do for those closets? They become a mess and disorganized, you can't find your shoes, and you have no idea what happened to the TV remote. So what’s the best way to organize a closet?
Five Ways for Closet Organizing:
If your closets are stuffed and you can't find your next change of clothes, these five tips can help you be on your way to a clean and organized closet space.
Plan and be Prepared:
Have a plan and be prepared – no leaping in headfirst. Give yourself some time and start with one closet so you know how much time to plan for the rest of them. Window shop, ask your friends what they do, look at closet organizers. There are different systems on the market to hang clothing, organize shoes, etc.
Storage containers that can be stacked and work best for me. Winter clothing, accessories such as shoes and belts can be put away easily. Take a look at each closet and write down what you'll need, but remember that you don’t need everything you see.
Keep the look uniform for each closet, this will help to make the closet look tidier. You can even make a sketch of how you would like to see your closet organized.
Go Shopping:
Here is a list of things you might need when organizing your closets. Some closets have doors that open instead of sliding so don't forget about utilizing the back of the door.
- Shelving and storage systems.
- Stackable storage containers and baskets.
- Double decker hanging systems, pant hangers, dress hangers. Get hangers that are the same size and type.
- Tie racks, shoe racks.
- Shelf dividers and wall hooks. They make wall hooks now that have adhesive backs that are quite sturdy. No more holes in the wall.
- Umbrella stands or tall decorative garbage cans. Not only do these work for umbrellas but toys and other items too.
Time To Donate:
Now it's time for finding the items you no longer use and donate them to charity. Pick the closet you're starting with and dump everything out. Everything, then vacuum and clean the walls. Sort through the garbage and throw it away. Go through clothes, coats, shoes and try them on. What doesn't fit and if it's in good shape, donate it or give it to a friend. Don't hang on to clothes that "might be worn if you lose ten pounds." If clothes are out of style or you haven't worn something for the last year or two, donate or give those away.
If there are items in the closet that belong in another room or should be stored in the attic, garage, or shed put these in the storage containers you bought. Try to separate them by type and label the container. If there are items such as toys or household products that are in good condition but no longer used, donate them.
Putting Everything Back Organized:
Re-organizing the closet and putting everything back will leave you feeling like you've accomplished a huge task - and well - it just might have been.
Coat closets can be arranged by family member. Dad's coats, Mom's coats, kids coats. Under each family members coats the floor space can be utilized for shoes, maybe a hook can be hung on the back wall for school bags.
Clothes closets can be arranged by work clothes, school clothes, comfy clothes, play clothes and then by color if you're so inclined. Toys, family memorabilia, crafts can be kept in storage bins and stored on the available floor space or on the top shelf. Floor space can also be used for shoes.
Keeping The Closet Organized and Tidy:
Now that you have this first closet under your belt, the rest will be easy and take no time at all. Establish closet cleaning as part of your weekly or monthly cleaning regimen. Your closet will not only be organized but it will remain organized.
