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12 Ways to Get More Out of Your Closet This Year
First clear it out, then fill it up again using some of these organizing tricks for your walk-in closet
If you go to get dressed each morning and cringe at the sight of your closet, it may be time to fix it up for the new year. Perhaps it’s introducing more organizational aspects, or adding a splash of color to make it a more enjoyable space. Considering that you use the closet everyday, you want it to be in top shape, for dressing as well as your sanity. Take a look at these photos of walk-in closets for some inspiration. Before you know it, your closet itself may be upstaging your actual wardrobe!
Browse closet photos
Browse closet photos
First things first: clear it out. The best path to a new and improved closet begins with starting fresh. Clear everything out so you can assess the bones of your closet. This will help you analyze what structural improvements you might want to make so you can tailor the space to your needs.
Install hooks. Hooks are an inexpensive and easy addition that will greatly improve your closet space. Hanging items like belts, ties or scarves on hooks will free up drawer space by turning walls into storage.
Add baskets. Baskets are great for organizing loose items on your shelves giving your closet a streamlined look. Group like items in each basket so you’ll always know where to find what you’re looking for.
Choose a uniform style hanger in the same color. This helps your eye to focus on the clothing.
Differentiate the heights of your shelves. To ensure a proper home for everything in your wardrobe, you're likely to need shelves of different heights. Stuffing too-tall items into too-short spaces leaves your closet feeling claustrophobic and you feeling frustrated.
Invest in jewelry organizers. When everything you own is laid out in plain sight in an organized fashion, it will make choosing the perfect accessory easier and more fun.
Equip your drawers with dividers. Everyone knows how frustrating it is to dig through a drawer for the right T-shirt or socks. Avoid this by using dividers so that each item has its own designated place.
Hang mirrors. The reasoning behind this is obvious, but do note: You don’t need a huge walk-in closet for this tip to be applicable. Hanging one on the inside of your closet door will also do the trick.
Sneak in a hamper. Every great closet needs an accessible hamper, but there’s no need for it to be an eyesore. These tilted hamper drawers blend right into the scenery and make doing the laundry easier.
Perfect your lighting. The right lighting in a closet is a must. Make sure it has a mixture of overhead ambient lighting and task lighting for any appropriate areas, such as vanities.
Create a display. Once it’s time to move everything back into your closet, arrange your wardrobe like a display. It’s important to have everything you own in view, or it’s possible you’ll forget you ever bought it. If you set it up as if you were styling a store, you’ll enjoy everyday shopping your own closet!
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