How to Organize your Closet – Regardless of the Size!

Entry #390, January 18, 2011

Unless your entire home is made of nothing but closets.. I assure you one of them needs to be organized! From the linen closet, to the kid’s room and the hall closet… here is a good article from Better Homes & Gardens – How to Organize your Closet.

Single Closet Door

Even a small closet is packed with storage opportunities; it just requires you to be clever in finding them. For instance, in this single-door closet, a simple self-assembled shelving unit provides loads of adjustable space for folded T-shirts, jeans, and sweaters, while also accommodating boxes and baskets filled with camisoles and undergarments. An easy-to-install bar allows dress and work clothes to hang. Even the back of the door becomes a hanging shoe rack with a few pockets devoted to small accessories.

Single Door Closet Organization

Bifold Closet Door

Sharing a closet with your partner requires skillful planning and a diplomat’s ability to divvy up space. Stackable, self-assembled storage units with adjustable cubbies and shelves provide structured places to store folded polos and jeans, plus several pairs of shoes. Canvas totes store exercise gear away from other clothes, while a high shelf installed overhead provides a spot to stash out-of-season attire in neat wicker baskets.

Bifold Closet Door

Walk – In Closet

Perhaps the best part about a walk-in closet is its multifunctionality — it can hold everything! There’s plenty of space for work and play attire, plus a three-bin laundry sorter, towels, pillows, linens, and storage for out-of-season garments.

Large drawers pack lots of storage capacity, but they can get messy fast. Use drawer organizers to keep stacks from sliding. And place clothing strategically in drawers — the accessible top spot should be reserved for items worn daily

Walk In Closet

Should you throw it away?

Does it fit?

At least once a year, or even once a season depending on how small your closet is, try on each item of clothing in front of a full-length mirror. Be honest with yourself. (After all, your organization is at stake!) Decide whether the style is a good fit for your current body type (not your “someday” body).

Do you wear it?

If you can’t remember the last time you wore that oh-so-trendy peasant skirt or knit poncho (no matter how cute it was when you bought it), then it’s probably time to donate it or sell it at a garage sale. A good guideline: If you haven’t worn the item in a year or more, it’s safe to get rid of it.

Is it in good shape?

Threadbare and worn apparel isn’t part of that boho chic trend; it looks messy. If items need a quick repair — a patched knee, a hemmed seam, a reattached button or zipper — set them in a pile for a tailor. If the item is ripped, badly stained, or full of holes, it’s time to toss it in the trash or rip it up for dust rags.

For more closet ideas on Stagetecture, click here.