A closet can quickly become cluttered, leaving you frustrated and overwhelmed and making it difficult to find what you need. Cleaning and decluttering the closet saves time and space. Here are a few tips, tricks, and creative ideas to help you organize your closet.
Start with a Clean Slate to Organize a Closet
The first step in organizing the closet is to start from scratch. Take everything out of the space and clean the area thoroughly. Vacuum and mop the floor, wash the walls, and wipe down shelves. If you need to re-paint the closet, now is a great opportunity. Removing everything from the space allows you to see what you have and determine what you can eliminate.
Sort and Declutter
While the closet is empty, sort through your clothes, shoes, and accessories. Divide them into three categories: keep, donate, and throw away. Be honest with yourself, and get rid of anything you haven’t worn in the past year or that doesn’t fit properly.
Create a System to Organize Your Closet
Once you’ve decluttered the closet, create an organization system that works for you. There are many different ways to organize your closet. Some people like to organize by color, while others prefer to sort by type of clothing (e.g., pants, dresses, shirts).
Use Organization Accessories
Organizers are valuable when organizing a closet. Depending on the items you are storing, you might use hangers, shoe racks, hooks, and shelving to maximize the space. Use drawer dividers to organize smaller items like underwear, socks, and accessories.
Organize Your Closet by Using Vertical Space
Don’t overlook vertical space when organizing your closet. Use hooks to store belts, scarves, and hats. Install shelves or a hanging shoe rack on the wall or the back of the closet door. Use shelf dividers to create more storage space.
Use Labels
Labeling boxes, bins, and totes will help you keep everything in its place. Use labels or tags to mark areas where you store your belongings. Labels make it easier to find what you’re looking for, and you’re more likely to return things to the proper location, keeping your closet organized.
Rotate Your Clothes
If you have a very small closet, consider rotating your clothes seasonally. Store out-of-season clothes in a separate area, such as under the bed or in the attic. Only store seasonal items in the closet to free up space and make it easier to find what you need.
Use the One-In, One-Out Rule
Use the one-in, one-out rule to prevent the closet from becoming cluttered. Every time you buy something new, get rid of something old. Eliminate items to maintain clutter-free storage space.
Organizing the closet may seem daunting, but with these tips and ideas, you can turn a cluttered mess into a well-organized space. After decluttering and organizing, make an effort to keep the closet tidy. Clean the area regularly and create a habit of getting rid of clothing, shoes, and accessories you don’t wear.
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