How to Organize a Baby's Nursery Closet
Parenting with a new baby is hard enough, so don't let a small closet space ruin it. Transforming that tiny, inefficient space stuffed with new items and hand-me-downs into a model of baby closet organization is not quite as complicated as you might think. With these smart organization hacks and clever storage solutions from The Container Store, you'll say goodbye to clutter and hello to a calm, accessible haven for your little one's precious threads.
First Steps:
- Before you implement any kind of organization system, sort all your baby items and baby shower gifts by size and type. Donate anything you can't or won't use.
- Once you've sorted clothes by different sizes, store the next sizes that the baby may not need yet in a storage box. Label these boxes with future sizes (3-6 months, 12-18 months, etc.) and stash them on the top shelf or at the bottom of the closet.
Sorting Storage Ideas:
- One way to divide baby clothes by size/age is by using hanging organizers or labeled bins.
- Maximize vertical space with a rod doubler or custom closet system like Elfa. This trick lets you hang both current size and future outfits without wasting precious real estate.
- Use matching child-size hangers to give everything in your hanging space a pleasing, uniform look. (Smaller hangers also ensure the clothes won't get stretched out.)
- If you're storing multiple sizes on a closet rod, use labeled closet dividers to keep them separated.
Flexibility is Key:
- Utilize Elfa Drawers to separate clothing by type (onesies, sleepers, pants, socks, sweaters, etc.) or season. Label them for quick access, and repurpose them later for toys or nursery supplies as your child grows.
- Stacking drawers also offer ultimate flexibility. Start with just a few for smaller items, then add more as your baby's wardrobe expands.
Divide and Conquer:
- Don't let deep shelves become clutter canyons. Add shelf dividers to create zones for shoes, accessories, or out-of-season outfits waiting for their next wear. (Remember, clear labels are your best friend!)
- Drawer organizers are equally important. Add drawer dividers to dresser drawers to help keep folded items neat and tidy.
- Plastic bins with handles are also great for storing small items on shelves. Add labels to any opaque storage bins so you can identify the contents more easily.
Doorway Delights:
- Add more storage space that empty closet door with an Elfa Utility Door & Wall Rack. Store bibs, burp cloths, toys, and hair accessories with ease, giving you easy access to essentials.
- You can also utilize an over-the-door organizer with clear pockets for hats, mittens, or bibs. Your little one will love peeking in and choosing their own treasures.
Other Nursery Closet Organization Tips:
- Declutter as you go. Outgrown clothes should be either put aside for future kids or donated.
- Add a caddy or cart near the changing table to keep any diapers, swaddles, wipes, and ointments within reach.
- If you have any remaining open space at the bottom of the closet, you can also add a small shoe organizer to help you find your baby's footwear quickly.
- Typically, the most used items in a dresser should be stored in the top drawers (or whichever ones are most easily accessible).
Remember, a well-organized baby closet is a happy parent's haven. With these simple tips and The Container Store's extensive selection of baby storage solutions, you can tame the clothing chaos and create an organized closet that makes getting your little one ready easier!