TIP | Closet
Hall Closet Organization Ideas
Whether your entryway has a hallway closet, coat closet, or a whole separate mudroom, one thing remains the same: it can quickly become the place all family members use as a dumping ground. If you're ready to give your messy storage space a makeover, check out these simple organization tips and storage ideas!
- Identify what the closet is being used for based on its location — seasonal items such as winter coats and rain boots? Linen closet overflow? Narrow it down as much as you can, particularly if it's a small closet.
- Next, it's time to declutter. Purge the closet of its contents. Throw away or donate items that haven't been touched in years, and place items like board games in a more functional spot like the playroom. If possible, move cleaning supplies like mops and brooms to the laundry room.
- Organize the items before putting them back into the closet and create a plan for accommodating them. Do you need hanging space? Space for luggage? Could you use additional closet shelving? A shoe organizer?
- Make use of the space on the closet door. Install an over-the-door organizer like an Elfa Utility Door & Wall Rack. You'll love being able to organize small items like gloves, umbrellas, and hats. You can even add a pegboard with small hooks to hold scarves and purses.
- Choose a storage system that's flexible so it can accommodate your changing needs. Note obstructions in the space you need to work around. Take measurements.
- Plan your closet so that the most frequently used items are most accessible, and the least frequently used items are on top shelves. The items you use daily should be within an easy reach.
- For a more complete closet makeover, first remove old built-in shelves and rods, and then patch and paint the walls. Evaluate lighting and replace/update fixtures if necessary.
- Maximize entry closet space by installing a custom closet storage solution like Elfa. A few of Elfa's helpful accessories include shelf dividers, shoe racks, hooks and gliding drawers.
- When putting items back in the closet, keep things organized by season and/or function and refer to your original plan.
- Choose hangers, storage bins, cubbies, shoe storage options and accessory organizers to complete the solution. Clear containers or those with labels will help you save time because you can quickly identify the contents.