Eight Ideas to Curb Closet Chaos
Photo: © Heidehibbard - Veer
It's amazing how a few tweaks can put your closet on the road to better organization. While you could spend a fortune on closet organizers, it's better to invest in a few functional storage components and a lot of improved habits.
1. Get organized before you organize.
You can't really organize your closet until you've shed some clutter. Go through your items and discard or donate as much as possible. Ask a good friend for help to make this daunting task easier (and maybe even fun).
2. Keep favorites front-and-center.
Rather than storing all shirts together, all pants together, etc., think in terms of outfits and favorites. Keeping your most-loved clothing in front makes it easier to dress, and has the added benefit of showing what you never use—so you can reduce more clutter by donating unnecessary items.
3. Skip the closet altogether.
Store shoes and off-season clothing in little-used spaces in your home—under the bed, for instance, using low-profile plastic containers. Or, go decorative and bring in pretty baskets and containers that add visual appeal and hidden functionality.
4. Increase horizontal and vertical space.
Use slim hangers, and store unused hangers elsewhere. Create two levels of closet rods for pants, skirts, shirts and blouses. Remember that a footstool can add eight inches to your own height and be easily tucked away when not in use.
5. Go modular.
Investing in modular closet units doesn't have to break the budget. Choose wire mesh for best air circulation and light penetration. Buy only the units you need and assemble them to suit your lifestyle.
6. Corral your odds-and-ends.
Jewelry, belts, scarves and ties all take up coveted space in drawers and the closet. Use specially designed hangers for belts and ties, dedicate a particular drawer for rolled-up items, or get creative and display your accessories right out in the open.
7. Develop extra storage possibilities.
Back-of-the door hangers are a must, and hooks are great for stowing purses and hats. Choose sturdy materials like canvas and real metal over plastic items that may collapse under extra weight.
8. Don't neglect the top shelf.
People tend to tuck things on the top shelf thinking they'll need them someday. Eventually you'll be wedging bits and pieces all the way to the ceiling. Organize your top shelves once a year and let go of items you no longer need.
