Learn how to declutter, organize, and maximize your closet space with these simple tips. From folding to hanging, discover how to make your closet work for you.
Introduction
If your closet is overflowing with clothes, shoes, and accessories, it might be time to get organized. A cluttered closet can lead to stress and wasted time, but with just a little effort, you can create a space that’s both functional and stylish.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through 7 easy steps to organize your closet, helping you create a space that’s tidy, accessible, and makes getting dressed a breeze.
What You’ll Learn in This Guide
By the end of this article, you’ll know exactly how to declutter your closet, sort your items by category, and use smart storage solutions to maximize your closet space. Whether you have a walk-in closet, a small wardrobe, or a shared space, these tips will help you keep your closet neat and organized.
7 Steps to Organize Your Closet
1. Empty Everything Out
The first step to a truly organized closet is to start with a clean slate. Remove everything from your closet, including clothes, shoes, accessories, and any items you may have stuffed in there. Lay everything out so you can see exactly what you have.
2. Sort and Declutter
Go through each item and ask yourself if you really wear it or if it still fits. If you haven’t worn it in the past year, it’s time to let it go. Create three piles:
- Keep
- Donate
- Toss
This will help you eliminate unnecessary items and free up space for the things you actually use.
3. Categorize Your Clothes
Once you’ve decided what to keep, sort your clothes by category:
- Tops (shirts, blouses, sweaters)
- Bottoms (pants, skirts, shorts)
- Outerwear (jackets, coats, cardigans)
- Dresses
- Shoes
- Accessories (bags, scarves, hats)
This will make it easier to locate specific items when you need them.
4. Fold and Hang with Purpose
Now that you’ve got everything sorted, it’s time to fold and hang with intention:
- Hang clothes that wrinkle easily or need to be kept in their original shape (like dresses, blouses, and jackets).
- Fold items that don’t need to be hung (like jeans, sweaters, and t-shirts).
- Use uniform hangers to create a streamlined look.
For sweaters and knitwear, use drawer organizers or shelves to prevent them from stretching out when hung.
5. Use Storage Bins and Baskets
For small accessories like scarves, hats, or shoes that don’t have a designated place, use storage bins or baskets to keep them organized. Label the bins so you can easily find what you need.
6. Maximize Vertical Space
If you have a small closet, make the most of your vertical space. Use additional shelves, hooks, or hanging organizers to store shoes, bags, or accessories. A hanging organizer for scarves or belts can save a lot of space and help you keep your items visible and accessible.
7. Maintain the Organization
Once your closet is organized, make it a habit to maintain it. Each time you buy something new, make sure to donate or toss something old. Regularly tidy up your closet to keep things from piling up again.
Final Tips & Conclusion
- Use Slimline Hangers: Invest in slim, non-slip hangers to save space and keep clothes from falling off.
- Add Drawer Organizers: For smaller items like jewelry, undergarments, or socks, use drawer dividers or organizers to keep them neatly arranged.
- Color Coordinate: Arrange your clothes by color to make it easier to put outfits together and add a touch of style to your closet.
- Seasonal Swaps: If you’re short on space, consider swapping out your wardrobe seasonally. Store off-season clothes in bins under the bed or in another closet.
A Real-Life Experience: Organizing My Closet for the First Time
When I first moved into my apartment, I was excited about my walk-in closet—until I realized how quickly it turned into a chaotic mess. Clothes were everywhere, shoes were stacked on top of each other, and I could never find anything. After months of frustration, I decided it was time to tackle the problem head-on.
I started by emptying everything out and sorting through each item. It was tough at first—let’s just say, I had to part with a lot of clothes that I hadn’t worn in years. Once I had everything sorted, I used baskets for shoes and accessories and invested in slimline hangers for my clothes.
The transformation was incredible. Not only did I have more space, but getting dressed every morning became much easier. I even had space to add a few new items that I actually wear regularly. Now, I can confidently say that my closet is one of my favorite spaces in my home.
If I can do it, so can you! Follow these steps, and you’ll have an organized closet that works for you in no time.
