How to Organize Your Closet: A Step-by-Step Guide

Our wardrobes should evolve over time to reflect changes in our lifestyle, tastes and needs. Yet, our closets often struggle to keep up with this transition, becoming cluttered and chaotic.

Organizing your closet isn’t just about aesthetics; it’s about creating a functional space that makes life more enjoyable and your daily routine smoother. Whether you’re looking to streamline your wardrobe or reclaim your closet space, this guide will provide you with practical steps to achieve a well-organized closet.

Steps to Organizing Your Closet:

1. Assess the Situation

• What’s working?

Evaluate what you like in this space.  Are you happy with the layout, how the clothes are sorted or the types of hangars you have?

• What seems to be the issue?

What is not working?  Is the closet so full that you can’t seem to find anything?  Has there been recent changes in life (e.g. new job) and what you used to wear on a regular basis no longer applies to your current situation?

• What would you like it to look like?

Describe or define what you would like the space to look like.  What items are necessary for your daily life and what items are optional.

2. Declutter

• Start with a clean slate

Start by removing all the items from the closet.  Lay all items on a clean surface to see what you have.  If you have more items than space then choose one category at a time, e.g. spread out all your dresses first, then go to all pants etc.

This visual inventory not only helps identify duplicates and forgotten items but also allows you to see everything you own and make informed decisions.

• Sort and categorize

Review each category and as you go through the items, decide their fate.  Keep items you love, that you wear often and are your current size.  Donate items in good condition or are gently used, and discard worn-out, damaged or anything beyond repair.

NOTE: Be honest about what you use and love.  Avoid holding onto items out of guilt or nostalgia. Focus on what truly serves you at your current stage in life.

Group similar items together in your closets, for example put all your tops together, your bottoms together and your dresses together.  Organizing by category makes it easier to find what you need.

Colour-coordinate for an aesthetically pleasing look. Arrange items by colour using a simple colour wheel, such as the one shown here, will help your closet look beautiful and make your morning routine much easier.

3. Clean It Out

• Wipe it down

Use a damp cloth to clean dust and grime from the shelves, rods and walls.

• Vacuum and sweep

Ensure the closet floor is free of dirt and debris.

• Update the look

If you are looking for a new look, consider brightening up the space and make it more inviting with a new coat of paint or new wallpaper.

4. Plan Your Space:

• Measure your closet dimensions

Accurate measurements will help you plan your storage solutions effectively.

• Assess your storage needs

Based on the items you kept, identify if you need more hanging space, shelves, or drawers.

• Design layout

Visualize and arrange your closet for optimal use of the space.  With your organizing efforts, create an ideal setup based on your needs.

• Utilize Vertical Space by installing shelves or hanging rods if needed. Use every inch of vertical space to maximize storage. Consider adding shelves, drawer units, or a shoe rack: Additional storage units maximize space and keep items accessible.

Use over-the-door organizers for shoes, scarves or accessories.

Hang hooks or pegs for bags and belts and keep them organized and within reach.

5. Invest in Organizers:

• Purchase quality hangers, bins, and baskets:

Sturdy, uniform hangers keep clothes in shape and make the closet look tidy. Bins and baskets help contain smaller items.

• Use clear bins for easy visibility of contents

Transparent storage allows you to see what’s inside without rummaging.

• Store Off-Season Clothing

Keep current season items within easy reach and store off-season clothes in labeled bins/baskets on higher shelves.

6. Create a Maintenance Routine:

• Regularly declutter and clean your closet

Schedule time to tidy up. Remove items that no longer serves your current lifestyle, that are uncomfortable or are beyond repair.

• Implement a one-in-one-out policy

To avoid future clutter, donate an old item for every new item you bring in.

• Reassess your closet every few months to ensure it remains functional and clutter-free.

Organizing a closet can seem daunting but breaking it down into manageable steps makes it achievable. By decluttering, planning, and investing in the right organizers, you can create a functional and beautiful closet that serves your needs. Regular maintenance will ensure it stays organized, saving you time and stress in the long run. Embrace the process, enjoy the transformation, and take pride in your newly organized closet.

Happy organizing!