We’ve all been there: Standing in front of our overflowing closet, searching for that one beloved sweater that seems to have mysteriously gone missing. The search can be frustrating, but it’s also an opportunity to rediscover old favorites and start reorganizing all that clutter.
Benefits of an Organized Closet
Closet organization may seem like a tedious task, but it can have a significant impact on your daily life. Instead of experiencing the stress of that overflowing closet and the accompanying frustration in the morning rush, having an organized closet can make your daily routine more efficient and enjoyable. Imagine being able to easily find your favorite clothes and accessories, without having to search through piles of clutter. By investing some time and effort into closet organization, you can create a space that promotes calmness and simplicity. (Pretty cool, huh?)
Not only can closet organization make your daily routine more pleasant, but it can also save you time and money in the long run. When your clothes and accessories are easily accessible, you’re less likely to forget what you already have and make unnecessary purchases. Additionally, an organized closet can help you identify which items you no longer wear, making it easier to donate or sell them. This can free up space in your closet, allowing you to see and appreciate the clothes you love even more. So, don’t let a cluttered closet bring you down — take the time to organize it and reap the benefits with these simple (and easy to execute) tidying tips.
Tips for Organizing Your Closet
- Start by decluttering. Before organizing your closet, take some time to declutter. Go through your clothes and accessories and donate or sell items you no longer wear or need. This will make it easier to see what you have and create more space in your closet.
- Categorize your clothes. Group your clothes by category, such as pants, dresses, and shirts. This will make it easier to find what you’re looking for and help you identify any gaps in your wardrobe.
- Use slim hangers. Slim hangers take up less space than bulky ones, allowing you to fit more clothes in your closet. They also prevent clothes from slipping off and keep your clothes looking neat and tidy.
- Invest in closet organizers. Closet organizers, such as shelves, hanging organizers, and shoe racks, can help you make the most of your closet space. They can also help you keep your clothes and accessories in order.
- Use clear containers. Clear containers allow you to see what’s inside, making it easier to find what you’re looking for. Use them to store accessories, such as belts and scarves or out-of-season clothes.
- Keep a laundry basket nearby. Keep a laundry basket in your closet or nearby where you can put dirty clothes instead of leaving them on the floor.
- Hang clothes by color. Hanging clothes by color can make your closet look more visually appealing and help you find what you’re looking for more quickly.
- Fold clothes strategically. Fold clothes that don’t wrinkle easily, such as T-shirts and jeans, and hang clothes that wrinkle easily, such as dress shirts and skirts.
- Store shoes properly. Store shoes on a shoe rack or shelf, or keep them in their original boxes to protect them from dust and damage.
- Use the door. Make use of the inside of your closet door by hanging organizers, such as a shoe or jewelry organizer. This can help you maximize your space and keep your accessories in order.
- Keep a small step stool nearby. If you have high shelves or a tall closet, keep a small step stool nearby to help you access items that are out of reach.
- Rotate your wardrobe seasonally. To save space and make it easier to find what you need, consider rotating your wardrobe seasonally. Pack out-of-season clothes in clear containers or vacuum-sealed bags to keep them in good condition and free up space in your closet.
- Organize accessories by type. Instead of storing all your accessories in one place, organize them by type. For example, keep all your hats in one box, all your jewelry in another box, and all your scarves in another box. This can make it easier to find what you’re looking for.
- Consider a capsule wardrobe. A capsule wardrobe is a collection of essential items that can be mixed and matched to create a variety of outfits. By simplifying your wardrobe, you can save space and make it easier to get dressed in the morning.
- Label containers and shelves. Label your containers and shelves with the contents for easier identification. This can also help you stay organized over time and prevent clutter from building up.
Now, take a deep breath, follow these tips, and get started on the closet organization journey that’ll keep your space accessible, tidy, and, most important, clutter-free. You’ll be able to access your favorite wardrobe gems without any frustration or mess — and have plenty of space to add a few more!
Stephanie Valente is a Content Director and Editor in Brooklyn, NY. She’s previously held writing and social media positions at Barkbox, Men’s Journal, and currently works at a full-service advertising agency. She’s a self-confessed home and design enthusiast. Stephanie is an award-winning poet and fiction writer. When she’s offline, you can find her taking a yoga class, running, hanging out with her rescue dog Pepper. Find her on stephanievalente.com.