Maximizing Closet Space: 6 Tips
Each new year, I go through a phase of cleaning, purging, and organizing. I always feel better about goals and the year ahead when things are in order. I’m always amazed at how much I’ve accumulated over the course of 12 months. I typically start this process with my closet.
I have one closet for my clothes and Kalyn has one for his things. We’re definitely short on storage space. Since he’s a true gentleman, he let me have the larger of the two. Ha! That really wasn’t an option. This is the exterior of my closet with paneled bi-fold doors:
Living in a tiny house with only two closets in the entire home, I’ve learned to shop with quality instead of quantity in mind. I’d rather spend my money on key pieces that I can wear with multiple outfits than buy a ton of clothes. Here’s a look at the interior and six tips I use for maximizing closet space.
01- Declutter. Ask yourself these questions: Have I worn this item in the last year? Does this jacket still fit? Do I need five shirts that look really similar? Odds are, you’ll answer no to many of these questions. That’s a sure sign they should end up in the donate box. If you’re the type of person who has a difficult time letting go, or you tell yourself “it might fit later this year”, just think of the space you’ll free up for new items! Trust me, get rid it of it.
02- Invest in quality hangers. This sounds silly, but if you’re buying basic staples and clothing you want to keep longterm, you’ve got to make them last. Hang them properly, launder them appropriately, and take care of them. Plus, pretty matching hangers make a great incentive to get organized and keep your closet that way!
03- Create a system. Use organization tools like bins, shelves, hooks, boxes, etc. If you’re looking for an easy, all-in-one unit, I used this one. Once you have everything you need, implement a system. I’m not a huge fan of color coding, but I do like grouping similar items. For instance, I keep all of my tops together based on sleeve length, then by material. It really helps to separate my casual attire from professional or formal pieces.
04- Consider your eye level. Store your most used items at eye level. Having easy access to the pieces you wear frequently will make a huge difference. It’s a simple adjustment that will definitely save you time. Even with your favorite pieces at eye level, keep a step stool or ottoman nearby or tucked inside your closet.
05- Adjust seasonally. Stow out of season pieces. With limited space, I store a clothes rack in my basement. Rotating your wardrobe will not only maximize your closet space, but it also feels like shopping once you make the trade. I go months without seeing my summer clothing, then when summer finally rolls around- there are so many good pieces I totally forgot about because I don’t see them in my closet on a daily basis.
06- Clean your closet! This seems like a no brainer, but physically clean the space. Wipe dust bunnies, vacuum, and lint roll if necessary. Sometimes the corners and nooks in the back of my closet get kind of gross. It makes me feel better knowing that everything is clean once again.
I also push my laundry hamper to the inside corner of my closet, so that it’s tucked away out of sight, but still convenient. My closet does extend about a foot on each side past the doors, so I have a little more space that you can actually see. It would be amazing to have a walk-in closet someday or more storage space, but for now- I’m making the most of what I have and surprisingly, it’s working well.
What kind of closet situations are you are guys currently dealing with? Does anyone else feel the need to get organized and purge at the beginning of each year? After my little organizing spree, I’m feeling happier already!