Closet Spaces
Maximize Your Closet Space: Unlocking the Secrets of Closet Organization
Julia Weaver March 12, 2024
Picture this: You wake up in the morning, filled with energy and excitement for the day ahead. But as you open your closet door, instead of being greeted by a neatly organized array of clothing, you're met with a chaotic jumble of garments piled haphazardly on top of each other. Sound familiar? If so, you're not alone.
Many of us – from Miami, FL to Seattle, WA and anywhere in between – struggle with closet clutter, but fear not – organizing and simplifying your closet is easier than you think. In this guide, ApartmentGuide explores some expert tips and tricks for maximizing your closet space, streamlining your style, and simplifying your life in the process.
1. Declutter like a pro
The first step in maximizing your closet space is to declutter your space ruthlessly. Set aside some time to go through each item in your wardrobe and ask yourself: Do I love it? Do I wear it? If the answer is no, it's time to say goodbye. Donate or sell items that no longer serve you, and watch as your closet breathes a sigh of relief.
Brenda Scott, professional home organizer and owner of Tidy My Space, weighs in on this topic. “Start by sorting through your outgoing seasonal items and weed out anything you didn't wear or use; chances are you won't next time either. Then, inspect all incoming spring items. Do they still fit well and make you feel confident? If not, consider selling or donating them, as others may be looking for new spring pieces.”
2. Start fresh
According to personal stylist Deni Kiro, spring is the perfect time to revitalize your wardrobe and embrace new trends. “Start by reviewing the latest fashion trends and selecting ones that resonate with your personal style. Decluttering your closet is essential for rediscovering forgotten treasures and making space for new additions.
Consider refreshing old pieces with tailoring to breathe new life into your wardrobe sustainably. As you cleanse your closet, focus on identifying your favorite pieces and exploring fresh styling ideas. Take inspiration from fashion runways to discover innovative ways to combine colors and styles, igniting your creativity for the season ahead.”
3. Invest in smart storage solutions
"I firmly believe that spring presents the ideal opportunity to organize and declutter home wardrobe closets," asserts Lisa Ann S. Santin, proprietor of LASS Wardrobe. "As we transition between seasons, decluttering our spring and summer closets and adopting a highly organized approach sets the stage for seamlessly integrating seasonal trends while also revitalizing forgotten pieces."
Once you've cleared out the clutter, it's time to invest in some smart storage solutions to make the most of your closet space. Consider adding shelves, drawers, or cubbies to maximize vertical storage. Utilize hanging organizers for shoes, bags, and accessories, and invest in slimline hangers to save space and keep your clothes wrinkle-free.
4. Get creative with clothing arrangement
Think outside the box when it comes to arranging your clothing. Rather than exclusively hanging garments, try folding bulkier items such as sweaters and jeans to maximize hanging space availability. Employ dividers or bins to categorize various types of clothing, facilitating quick and easy access to your wardrobe essentials. Additionally, make the most of the available space by utilizing the back of the door for supplementary storage options. Consider installing an over-the-door shoe organizer or hooks to optimize storage capacity, especially in compact or limited spaces.
5. Incorporate a seasonal rotation
With spring approaching, now is the perfect time to freshen up and organize your home,” advises Efa, professional organizer and founder of Neat It. “Begin by sorting through your summer wardrobe. If you find items that no longer fit or are worn out, consider parting ways with them. Clearing out unnecessary belongings not only creates space but also contributes to a renewed and orderly living environment, promoting a sense of well-being and anticipation for the season ahead.”
To prevent your closet from becoming overcrowded, consider implementing a seasonal rotation system. Store off-season clothing in bins or under-bed storage containers, and swap them out as the seasons change. Not only will this free up space in your closet, but it will also make getting dressed each morning a breeze.
6. Maximize every inch
Finally, don't overlook any potential storage opportunities in your closet. Take advantage of high shelves for storing out-of-season items or infrequently used items like luggage or keepsakes. Make use of the floor space for shoe racks or storage bins, and don't forget to utilize the space above the closet door for additional shelving or hanging space.
“Store your winter garments at the top or towards the back of your closet, or even pack them away if possible,” suggests stylist Suzie Gaffney. “Keep your spring and summer attire visible and within easy reach. Consider arranging your clothing by color to give your wardrobe a fresh perspective and ensure organization by grouping similar types of clothing together within each color category, such as white tanks followed by white short sleeves and then white long sleeves. This color-based system facilitates quick and efficient access to your wardrobe essentials.”
Maximizing your closet space this spring
With these straightforward strategies, you can turn your chaotic closet into a well-ordered space you’ll love. With just a bit of time and creativity, you'll maximize your closet's potential and make getting dressed each day a pleasure. So, roll up your sleeves, gather your bins and hangers, and get ready to conquer your closet clutter once and for all.