How To Organize An Everything Closet
Just about everyone has one—that closet that seems to have a little bit of everything in it. (Kind of like a junk drawer in closet form.) Fortunately, Julianna Strickland of Space Camp Organizing has a few of the best closet organization tips and hacks that'll help you get even a small space clutter-free in no time.
Getting Started
The first thing to do is declutter. Take everything out of your closet space and macro-sort items into categories (clothing, toys, games, office equipment, cleaning supplies, etc.). Streamline your wardrobe by deciding what to keep, donate, and dispose of. If possible, store seasonal items elsewhere—like the attic, basement, or garage. Removing anything you don't need from the space is a big step in maximizing every inch. As Julianna says, "The goal is to open up your closet and know that you use and like everything in there."
Design A Custom Solution
An Elfa custom closet system is a great way to maximize a small closet. It's extremely strong, flexible and suitable for organizing everything from clothing to toys and mementos. All you need to get started are the dimensions of your closet. Whether you need more hanging space, shelving, or drawers, Elfa can be customized to your needs.
Create Zones By Grouping Items Together By Category
Once your Elfa is installed, create zones to store similar items together. Remember, Elfa Closet Shelves, Drawers, Shelf Dividers, and Closet Rods can easily be repositioned at any time, making it easy to switch up the zones in your closet as your needs change. You can have separate zones for extra coats, shoes, accessories—think purses, scarves, necklaces, etc.—and other items.
Use Your Real Estate Wisely
Arrange the zones in your organized closet by how often you use them. Relegate mementos or things you don't use often to top shelves; and store things you use a lot within easy access. Utilize thinner hangers that save storage space. (Many sweaters, t-shirts, blouses, and other clothing items can be folded and stored in drawers if you need more hanging space.) Vertical space between built-in shelves can be maximized via stacking organizers or storage bins. If you have empty wall space, add hooks for handbags or smaller items. If there's empty space under your hanging rod, try adding a freestanding shoe organizer or cubbies. And a hanging closet door organizer can be useful for all kinds of items.
Label Bins & Baskets
Don't forget to label any closet storage solutions to make it easy for anyone in the household to put things back where they belong. (If the storage boxes are not clear or translucent, proper labels are especially important.)
Check out more home organization solutions for your closet here!