Closet Organization Ideas: 15 Simple Tips To Clear Your Home And Mind - Nestly Nifty (2024)

Is your closet a source of daily frustration, we have 15 closet organization ideas that will help to change this. You keep seeing aesthetically pleasing closets on Pinterest and Tiktok but for the life of you feel that your closet will never look that good.

Don’t worry, you’re not alone. The desire for a well-organized closet is a common aspiration. We’ll incorporate how to organize a small closet with lots of clothes, storing out of season clothes, how to use your current closet design to maximize space and more.

In this post, we’ll explore 15 closet organization ideas that will not only declutter your closet but gain piece of mind and tranquilty.

This blog post is about Closet Organization Ideas for your home.

1. Start with a Decluttering Marathon

Before diving into any closet organization project, set aside time for a decluttering marathon. Empty your closet entirely and sort your items into three categories: keep, donate, and discard. Be ruthless, and ask yourself if each item genuinely serves a purpose or brings you joy.

When was the last time you used that purse or that dress? If its been over a year and its not a special occasion item or something that serves supreme sentimental value and in good condition consider donating it. The weight of unneeded clutter leaving your life will free you in ways that you couldn’t even imagine.

Plenty of times we keep things out of fear and we don’t even notice. Maybe you spent a huge amount of money on that sexy dress or limited editon sneakers and just can’t find the will to let it go even if you know you’ll never wear it because you don’t want to feel like you’re throwing money away.

Oftentimes, we tend to attach our value as people to the things that we obtain, as trivial as it is to some clothing can be a big part of a person’s identity.

As a fashionista I totally get it, but sometimes the very things we attach ourselves to are the biggest roadblocks that can weigh you down. Even you just start with one item its perfect forward momentum in the right direction.

Begin your closet transformation by taking time to do a decluttering session this weekend. Click here to shop for closet organization essentials.

2. Upgrade to Quality Hangers

Invest in slim, non-slip hangers to maximize space and protect your clothes from unnecessary wear and tear. Uniform hangers create a visually pleasing, organized look.

Hangers come in various materials such as wooden, plastic, and velvet. The best choice depends on your specific needs. A few hanger types to consider are:

• Wooden hangers: Sturdy and provide excellent support for heavy coats and suits.
• Plastic hangers: Affordable and suitable for lightweight garments.
• Velvet hangers: Perfect for preventing delicate fabrics from slipping off.
• Standard Hangers: These are the common, versatile hangers you see in most closets.
• Wire Hangers: Thin, minimalist hangers often used by dry cleaners.
• Padded Hangers: These are ideal for delicate fabrics, preventing them from creasing.
• Clip Hangers: Perfect for skirts and pants, they have clips to hold your garments in place.
• Cedar Hangers: Infused with natural cedar scent, they keep pests away from your clothes.
• S Hook Hangers: Space saving, easy to use for organizing pants and sets.

Which Hangers Prevent Shoulder Bumps?

Shoulder bumps can ruin the shape of your clothes. To prevent them, opt for:

1. Contoured Hangers: These mimic your shoulder’s shape, preventing shoulder bumps.
2. Padded Hangers: The extra cushioning protects your clothes from bumps.
3. Wide-Shoulder Hangers: They distribute the weight evenly, avoiding bumps on heavy garments.

What Hangers Are Best for Dress Shirts?

Dress shirts deserve special care, so choose hangers wisely, we recommend:

1. 1. Wooden Hangers: They provide solid support, maintaining the shirt’s shape.
   2. Velvet Hangers: Prevents slippage and wrinkles on dress shirts.
   3. Hangers with Clips: Ideal for hanging dress shirts without creasing them.

Choosing the right clothes hangers can make a significant difference in the organization and aesthetic of your closet when adding these clothes organization ideas to your decluttering routine. If you have a small closet and want to maximize space effectivley these space saving hangers come in clutch with expanding room in your tiny closet.

Now that you have the knowledge of which hangers should best suit your needs, it’s time to revamp your closet with the best hangers tailored to your clothing needs.

RELATED POST: 5 GENIUS CLOSET ORGANIZATION HACKS FOR A NEAT AND TIDY WARDROBE

3. Create a Masterpiece with Custom Shelving

Maximize your closet’s potential with custom shelving. Adjustable shelves are perfect for stacking sweaters, handbags, and shoes neatly. Tailor your shelving layout to your specific needs.

Custom Closet Shelving Ideas to Maximize Storage Space

When it comes to closet shelves, you have several options to choose from. Traditional fixed shelves are a common choice, but they can limit your flexibility in organizing your closet. Alternatively, you can opt for adjustable or expandable shelves. These shelves are incredibly versatile and can be customized to fit your specific needs, making them ideal for various closet types and sizes.

What Is the Best Material for Closet Shelves?

The best material for closet shelves depends on your preferences and needs. Two of the most popular options are wood and wire shelves.

1. Wood Shelves: Wood shelves provide a classic and timeless look to your closet. They are sturdy and can hold heavier items without bending. Wooden shelves are also excellent for preventing delicate clothing items from getting snagged, making them a top choice for closet shelving. Many people who opt in for these clothes organization ideas love the simplicity ofo the wood and how it blends in neatly with their decor.

2. Wire Shelves: Wire shelves, on the other hand, are lightweight and provide excellent visibility. They allow for better air circulation, which can be beneficial for certain clothing items. Wire shelves are also adjustable, which makes them ideal for customizing your closet as your needs change.

The choice between wood and wire shelves ultimately depends on your aesthetic preferences, the types of items you’ll be storing, and your budget.

Is It Better to Have Wire or Wood Closet Shelves?

The decision between wire and wood closet shelves boils down to your individual needs and preferences. If you prioritize durability, aesthetics, and preventing delicate fabrics from damage, wood shelves may be your best choice. On the other hand, if you prefer versatility, adjustability, and visibility, wire shelves might be the better option for you. Many people also opt for a combination of both, using wood for certain sections and wire for others to maximize their closet’s efficiency.

How Tall Should Closet Shelves Be?

The height of your closet shelves should be determined by the items you intend to store. For clothing items like shirts and blouses, shelves should be around 12 to 16 inches high. For folded pants, consider shelves that are 14 to 18 inches high.

For larger items like jackets and coats, you’ll want shelves that are at least 36 inches high. Be sure to measure your closet’s dimensions and plan your shelf heights accordingly to maximize storage and accessibility.

Here are a few items that you can use today to transform your closet.

1. Closet Shelf Organizers:

• Utilize closet shelf dividers to keep your stacks of clothes neat and organized. These clear acyrilc ones from amazon are perfect since there is no installation requried and is perfect for renters.
• Consider closet shelves with rods for hanging garments, optimizing vertical space.

2. Closet Shelving Systems:

• Invest in closet shelving systems that are adjustable like this expandable shelf rod that can adapt to your changing storage needs.
• Combine open shelving with closed cabinets to keep both folded and hanging items in one place.

3. Closet Shelf Brackets:

• Create a unique look by choosing decorative closet shelf brackets.
• Use sturdy brackets to support heavy items like shoes and bags.

4. Closet Shelves Home Depot:

• Home improvement stores like Home Depot offer a range of closet shelving options. Take a trip to get inspired.

1. Vertical Shoe Shelves: Install narrow, vertical shelves for your shoe collection, saving horizontal space.
2. Open Shelving: Use open shelving for displaying accessories or folded clothes, making it easy to access.
3. Drawer Dividers: Custom drawer dividers can keep small items like jewelry and socks in perfect order.

In conclusion, expandable closet shelves can be a game-changer when it comes to organizing your closet space. Whether you prefer wood or wire shelves, the key is to select the material that best suits your needs. Remember to customize the height of your shelves to accommodate the items you’ll store. With the right closet shelving solution, you can transform your closet into an organized and efficient space that makes your daily routine more manageable.

4. Drawer Dividers for Small Items

Drawer dividers are the unsung heroes of a well-organized closet. You can use them to separate socks, underwear, belts, and accessories, making it a breeze to locate what you need (especially when you’re running out the door in the morning in a rush).

If you’ve ever felt the frustration of digging through a disorganized drawer in search of a particular clothing item, then you understand the value of efficient storage solutions. Drawer dividers for clothes offer a simple yet effective way to keep your clothing neatly organized and easily accessible. Let’s delve into the benefits of these dividers and explore how you can maximize your closet space with various storage solutions.

How Can I Expand My Closet?

Expanding your closet space doesn’t always require a major renovation. One practical solution is to utilize drawer dividers for clothes. These dividers enable you to make the most of your drawer space by creating designated sections for different types of clothing. They allow you to neatly separate items like socks, undergarments, and accessories, maximizing your available storage without the need for additional closet space.

Can You Add Shelves to a Closet?

Absolutely! Adding shelves to your closet is a fantastic way to create more storage space. You can install floating shelves, which provide a sleek and modern look, or opt for built-in shelves for a more integrated and polished appearance.

Additionally, adjustable shelves allow you to customize your storage layout to accommodate different clothing and accessory sizes, making them a versatile choice for any closet.

How Do I Add Hanging Space to My Closet?

To increase hanging space in your closet, consider installing a double hanging closet rod. This solution effectively doubles the available hanging space, allowing you to store twice as many clothing items without taking up any additional floor area.

You can also incorporate over-the-door hanging organizers or hooks to utilize the often-underutilized space on the back of the closet door.

What Are the Different Types of Closet Shelves?

Closet shelves come in various types, each catering to different needs and preferences:

1. Floating Shelves: These shelves offer a clean and modern appearance and can be easily installed on any wall surface.
2. Built-in Shelves: These shelves are custom-made to fit your closet’s dimensions, providing a seamless and integrated storage solution.
3. Adjustable Shelves: These versatile shelves can be repositioned to accommodate different clothing and accessory sizes, making them an excellent option for those who frequently rearrange their storage space.
4. Corner Shelves: These shelves are designed to maximize the use of corner spaces in your closet, providing additional storage options without taking up much space.

By incorporating a combination of these shelving types along with drawer dividers, you can transform your closet into a functional and organized space that perfectly suits your storage needs. You can get your own closet organization shelves here along with recommended closet organization essentials that have been loved by many!

5. Elevate Your Space with Closet Systems

For a closet that caters to your unique storage needs, consider closet systems. These modular solutions often include shelves, hanging rods, drawers and are oftentimes adjustable. Choose between pre-made systems or have one designed specifically for your space.

This is perfect for people who live in homes that are an older build or don’t have a traditional closet built in and are tired of not being able to find their clothes because they’re overstuffed into a pile of chaos.

You know how it is when you’re trying to pull open a drawer but you have 17 season of clothes all racked together that you have to use all your strength to open it without breaking it.

It’s so annoying and it can even get to the point where you end up forgetting about certain clothes that you’ve bought since you haven’t seen them in forever.

If you need the extra space this is such an easy fix and it even fits well with walk in closets also and can even be used as a make shift pantry or used in the garage as well for extra storage. Since most closet systems (like this one) are durable and adjustable you get the best of both worlds and most people are able to set them up with little to no help!

6. Organization For Accessories & Small Items

Minimalism has gained significant traction in the realm of organization for its simplistic and elegant approach. Incorporating a minimalist style for storing accessories and small items can transform your closet into a more serene space.

Items such as jewelry organizer stands and multipurpose tie and belt racks are the perfect addition to any closet.

Embracing innovative and smart storage techniques can make a significant difference in effectively organizing your accessories and small items.

From utilizing vertical storage options to integrating multifunctional furniture, understanding how to optimize space will not only declutter your environment but also create a more functional and aesthetically appealing setting.

7. Make the Most of Vertical Space with Hanging Organizers

When striving to maximize storage in a limited space, integrating vertical storage solutions can prove to be a game-changer. Vertical space saving hangers and hanging organizers offer an innovative approach to optimizing closet arrangements. By using these tools, you can effectively create additional storage for your belongings without sacrificing floor and storage space.

These versatile organizers enable you to make the most of every inch within your closet, allowing for the efficient arrangement of clothing, shoes, and accessories. Implementing vertical space saving hangers can drastically enhance closet organization and contribute to a clutter-free living environment.

With these simple adjustments, you can effortlessly increase your closet capacity, ensuring a seamless and convenient storage experience. Vertical space often goes unused, so maximize it with these hanging organizers. Store shoes, scarves, hats, ties, purses or any small items that need a dedicated home.

8. DIY Closet Organization

If you’re feeling crafty, consider DIY closet organization projects. Create custom solutions to fit your unique needs. Build shelves, cubbies, or even a pegboard for accessories. When it comes to efficient closet organization, opting for a simple DIY closet system can be an excellent choice, especially for small spaces.

Here’s a step-by-step guide to creating the best DIY closet system. First, begin by assessing your storage needs and available space.

Get rid of things you don’t need and take accurate measurements of the closet area, keeping in mind the dimensions of the shelves and hanging space required when performing these closet organization ideas is crucial.

Next, explore various DIY closet ideas for small spaces, such as using tension rods for additional hanging space or incorporating adjustable wire shelving for versatile storage solutions. Consider incorporating stackable storage cubes or bins to make the most of vertical space. Ensure you include adequate lighting to enhance visibility within the closet.

Lastly, maintain the system’s functionality by regularly decluttering and organizing your belongings to maximize the efficiency of the DIY closet system so all of your hard work doesn’t go to waste.

9. Optimize Closet Lighting

Proper lighting can transform your closet from a dark abyss into an inviting space. Consider LED lights to illuminate every corner of your closet, making it easier to find what you need. When seeking closet lighting ideas without wiring, there are various creative solutions to illuminate a dark closet effectively.

One simple approach involves utilizing battery-operated LED strip lights or motion-sensor activated LED puck lights, ensuring hassle-free installation without the need for complex wiring. This is perfect if you have to wake up super early when its still dark to get ready and don’t want to turn on the main lights to disturb anyone else in the house.

Additionally, installing LED tap lights or adhesive LED light bars can swiftly brighten up the space, making it easier to locate items.

Opting for bright white LED lights with sufficient lumens is considered the best lighting choice for a dark closet, as it mimics natural daylight, aiding in color accuracy and ensuring a well-lit environment.

These wireless lighting options offer an efficient and convenient means of enhancing visibility within your closet.

10. Declutter Your Closet in Record Time

A cluttered closet is the catalyst for daily confusion. To declutter fast, set a timer for 15 minutes and tackle one section at a time. Make quick decisions: keep, donate, or discard each piece and be at peace with the decisons you make.

Have a box or trash bag for the “gotta-go” pieces, things that are in deplorable condition or clothes you haven’t touched in years and get rid of those first. Then items that you are undecided on put in it’s own seperate pile. Most people have a plethora of hangers that they don’t need, give them away or throw those out too.

While doing this process you’ll notice that creating order and making everything visible from here on out is the key to being successful with the process.

11. Embrace Marie Kondo’s KonMari Method

Marie Kondo’s KonMari method involves decluttering by category, only keeping items that “spark joy.” Embrace this method and watch your closet transform into a haven of organization and joy. Marie Kondo, renowned for her revolutionary KonMari method, has outlined six fundamental rules to achieve effective and transformative tidying.

The first rule emphasizes commitment, urging individuals to dedicate themselves wholeheartedly to the tidying process. Next, she encourages envisioning an ideal lifestyle, guiding individuals to focus on the kind of environment that truly resonates with their aspirations.

Emphasizing the significance of decluttering, she advises finishing discarding before organizing, allowing for a clearer understanding of the possessions that truly matter.

Tidying by category, not location, enables a comprehensive evaluation of all items in a particular category, promoting a more systematic and thorough approach. Following the designated order, starting with clothing and ending with sentimental items, ensures a smooth and progressive transition throughout the decluttering journey.

Lastly, the crucial question of whether an item sparks joy serves as the litmus test for determining what to keep, emphasizing the importance of emotional connection and the transformative power of surrounding oneself only with belongings that elicit genuine happiness should be considered when using these closet organization ideas.

These rules, when followed diligently, can pave the way for a more organized, joyful, and purposeful living space.

12. Utilize Closet Door Storage

For those struggling with limited storage space in their closets, incorporating closet door storage can be a game-changer. A practical approach involves utilizing over-the-door storage solutions, hanging shoe organizers, or pocket organizers that attach to the back of the door.

These additions create valuable storage real estate for items like shoes, small accessories, socks, scarves, and even lightweight clothing items, thus efficiently expanding the overall storage capacity.

By making the most of this often overlooked space, you can effectively reduce clutter within the closet itself, freeing up precious room for bulkier clothing and essential belongings.

This method proves to be a simple yet effective way to maximize storage efficiency, ensuring that even the most compact living spaces can remain organized and functional. Install hooks, pockets, or over-the-door organizers to maximize this often unused space.

13. Shoe Racks and Cubbies

When it comes to optimizing shoe storage in a closet, a shoe rack serves as an indispensable organizational tool. The best way to store shoes in a closet is by utilizing a sturdy, space-efficient shoe rack that fits the available area.

By positioning the shoe rack along the floor or even on a lower shelf, it ensures easy access and visibility for each pair.

To add more shoe space to a closet, individuals can consider installing stackable shoe racks, over-the-door shoe organizers, or adjustable shelving units.

These solutions effectively utilize vertical space and create additional tiers for storing various types of footwear. Organizing shoes in a front closet can be achieved by categorizing them according to usage frequency or style.

Placing frequently worn shoes near the entrance ensures convenient access, while seasonal or less-used pairs can be stored higher up or in under-bed storage containers. In a small wardrobe, maximizing space is key.

Utilizing under-bed shoe organizers, hanging shoe pockets, or compact, multi-tiered shoe racks can help optimize the available space, allowing for efficient and accessible shoe storage without compromising on wardrobe capacity. Invest in shoe racks, cubbies, or clear shoe boxes to keep your footwear organized and visible. This will prevent shoe clutter and make selecting the right pair a breeze.

14. Organize by Season

When it comes to organizing clothes by season, you can adopt several helpful tips to ensure a smooth and efficient process.

First it’s practical to organize the closet by season, ensuring that the current season’s attire is readily accessible while stowing away out-of-season clothing. For managing summer and winter clothes in the closet, just designate separate sections or shelves for each season’s attire. Utilizing labeled storage boxes or vacuum-sealed bags proves effective for packing away off-season clothes, keeping them protected and compact.

Seasonal rotation of clothes involves swapping out the current season’s wardrobe with the relevant clothing for the upcoming season, ensuring a seamless transition without clutter.

A suggested approach involves grouping clothes by type, such as long-sleeve shirts, short-sleeve shirts, pants, skirts, and dress outfits, arranging frequently used items in easily reachable spots.

Storing out of season clothes in folded boxes or containers helps keep the closet less crowded, enabling better visibility and accessibility of the clothing.

Storing out of season clothes in bins or under-bed storage to create more space in your closet for the current season’s clothes will maximize the amount of room that is avaliable to you.

15. Space-Saving Cascading Hangers

Cascading hangers allows you to hang multiple items vertically, saving valuable hanging space in your closet. Use them for blouses, skirts, or pants and maximize the space in your closet.

Regardless of where you are in your closet organization journey, remember that you have what it takes to achieve your perfect organizational oasis. The key is to start, take one step at a time, and stay committed to creating a space that brings you joy and clarity every day. You’ve got this!

Wrapping up these fantastic closet organization ideas a well-organized closet is now within your grasp. By following these 15 closet organization ideas, decluttering, optimizing your space, and embracing smart storage solutions, you can transform your closet into a place of efficiency and delight.

Comment below which tip helped you out the most and what part of organizing your closet has been the most challenging for you. Also if you made it this far comment your favorite emoji 💖.

My favorite tip so far would have to be number 9 optimize closet lighting. I used to have a super tiny closet that had a light that could only be reached if you attached a string to pull down the lever. The house was built in the 50’s so it was very outdated and back then I wish I knew about LED light strips… when it was dark i would have to use the flashlight on my phone to see inside 😂.

Now, with these 15 closet organization ideas at your disposal, you have all the tools you need to embark on your journey toward a tidier, more efficient, and aesthetically pleasing closet. No matter where you are in your organization journey, you can achieve the closet of your dreams. Your perfect organizational oasis is just a few steps away. Happy organizing!