Are you challenged by a small or awkwardly shaped closet? Here are five simple small closet ideas to effectively utilize and organize your space.
1. Clean slate
Start by clearing out absolutely everything from the closet and sort all your items into four piles: keep, toss, donate and move. Keep only the essentials — if you haven’t worn it in a year, it does not belong in your small closet. You know those banged up kitten heels you wore every Saturday night back in 2004? Toss them, girlfriend! Chances are you’ll never wear them again. Donate items that are in good shape but don’t fit your style vibe anymore. And finally, move those random items that have no business taking up space in your small closet to other areas of your home.
2. Zoning laws
Survey the empty space and think of creative ways to optimize the shape of your closet. Every square inch is exclusive real estate. Start to assign zones for your essential items. Are you dealing with a slanted ceiling? Not to worry, it’s the perfect space-saving zone to hang pants on children’s hangers. Use those high shelves to store your tall boots. Tip: Insert an empty paper towel roll in each boot to keep it from slouching over. Use a deep drawer for your shoe zone. And don’t be afraid to think outside the small box — create a zone outside of the closet to store seasonal items in a chest at the end of your bed.
Photo credit: A Lo and Behold Life
Photo credit: A Lo and Behold Life
Photo credit: A Lo and Behold Life
3. Measure twice
Do your homework and research products that will maximize the space in your closet. Don’t just purchase any old basket and expect that it will miraculously improve your storage situation. Measure your awkward area and search for an optimal solution. Custom drawer systems are a great way to fill the space beneath hanging items.
Photo credit: A Lo and Behold Life
4. Accessorize
Hangers, hooks, shelf dividers, baskets… Utilize closet accessories to boost your storage space. Slim line hangers are a most valuable space-saving player in my closet. A hanging organizer is ideal for sweaters and sweatshirts if you’re lacking shelf storage. And don’t forget to put doors to use. A cheap towel rack is a fab way to keep your scarves in check.
Photo credit: A Lo and Behold Life
5. Label it
There’s nothing like the magic of a simple label. It may seem like overkill to some, but trust me, labels keep everyone honest. They force you to maintain your organization and end the annoying question of “Where does this go?” Tip: Use adhesive bookplates to hold your labels. As your needs change you can easily switch out and replace the labels.
Photo credit: A Lo and Behold Life
6. Maintain
Wouldn’t it be nice if everyone was type A and staying organized was second nature? In a perfect world maybe, but not in my house! Every couple of months, take a few minutes to sort through your essential items to maintain your organized small closet. If something isn’t working, reassess and change it.
More organization tips for your home
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