Introduction: The Key to Simplifying Life Starts in the Closet
A closet is more than just a place to store clothes—it’s one of the most used areas of the home and often a key high traffic zone. When clutter piles up and items are hard to find, it can disrupt your daily routine and add unnecessary stress. An organized closet allows you to simplify your life, saving time and making it easier to focus on what matters. Plus, with the right storage systems and closet organization ideas, you can create a space that’s as beautiful as it is functional.
This guide will take you through a 10-step process to declutter and organize your closet without sacrificing aesthetics. With just 3-4 days (and an additional 1-2 days for planning), you can create a closet that promotes intentional living—where everything has a place and serves a purpose.
This is the second in our “high-clutter zone series,” where we help you take problem areas and turn them your favorite, stress-free spaces in your home.
What Will You Learn?
In this guide, you’ll discover:
- How to declutter your closet efficiently by addressing high clutter zones and trouble spots.
- Practical closet organization ideas to create a system that’s easy to maintain.
- How to use vertical storage and drawer dividers to optimize space.
- The benefits of closet systems and custom storage solutions for aesthetic appeal.
- Tips for maintaining your closet’s organization over time to prevent clutter from returning.
Step 1: Empty the Entire Closet for a Fresh Start
The first step in closet organization is to remove everything from your closet—clothes, shoes, bags, and accessories. Starting with a blank slate gives you a chance to assess your space and rethink your closet system. I always like to throw in a suggestion. I grew up watching day time talks shows when I was home sick from school. My favorite episodes were the before and after makeover shows. So here’s your chance. Take photos of everything prior to emptying out the closet. This is two-fold beneficial. You will have the big reveal moment when you finally finish, and the picture will serve as reference for identifying and remembering trouble spots in your closet. Later in the guide, we direct you on purging. After taking inventory, be sure to take pictures of all clothing items that are staying, separating them into folders in your phone for the 4 seasons, including general use items, workout, special occasion, and travel. This will simplify your life if you decide to utilize the seasonal rotation strategy.
Identify Trouble Spots
Take note of areas that were previously cluttered or difficult to access. These trouble spots may include corners of shelves or shoe racks that became dumping grounds for unused items.
Visualize the End Result
Before putting anything back, visualize what you want your closet to look like. Are there frequently used items that need easy access? What storage solutions will keep the space looking organized? Just as importantly, think about how you want to feel. This is important. You’re not just simplifying life, you want to be able to have this feeling every time you walk into your closet. Beyond this, the more you buy into the project, the better the outcome.
Time Frame: 1-2 hours
Step 2: Sort Items into Categories
With everything laid out, group your items by type: tops, pants, shoes, accessories, and seasonal wear. This process will help you see what you have and make the next step—decluttering—easier.
Why Sorting by Category Works
Sorting by category, instead of location, allows you to see how much of each type of item you own. This process let’s you identify redundancies, and items that are not serving you. We all hold onto things for longer than we need them, and for many reasons. Sometimes it is guilt for impulse buying and we feel shame for just donating.
We often buy clothing items for specific moments that do not necessarily represent value, but we hold onto them hoping and waiting for that time to come. Some items hold memories for us, thinking about a time when we were able to wear that item, or a time in the future that we will be in a position to wear it again. If these items do not represent a positive image in your mind, you may want to discard them. Having goals and aspirations if healthy, but it those items are bringing guilt without hope, they are not bringing value to you.
For more on this, check out what Shira Gill has to share on the topic.
Separate Seasonal Items
Move seasonal clothing into a dedicated pile for storage in bins or other storage systems. This clears space for the items you use daily. Many people resist this, but if you are physically limited on space, this not only allows for a stress free closet, it builds in scheduled decluttering with the changing seasons. The key here is to maintain a few of your favorite “all season” items that you want close at hand. This alleviates the FOMO feeling, and will keep you from running to the storage room when a cool period hits mid summer, or making impulse purchases when you feel you are missing an item in your closet.
Time Frame: 1-2 hours
Step 3: Declutter with the Keep, Donate, Sell, or Toss Method
This step is where you start simplifying your life by eliminating what no longer serves you. For each item, decide whether to keep, donate, sell, or toss it. Consider what makes you feel good, what looks great on you, and what brings value to you. Move into redundancies and items you’re holding onto for reasons previously discussed.
Focus on Intentional Living
Keep only the items you truly love or use regularly. Embracing a decluttering lifestyle means being intentional with your wardrobe. This may be a good time to introduce your colors. Consider getting an evaluation done that will help you pick items that will align with your natural colors.
For more information check out Laurie Loo. This is a great tool for both men and women. When my wife first brought this idea to me, I shrugged it off. I can now share with you that it was one of the biggest value adds to my life in the last two years. No confusion on colors and looks. Ease of shopping, streamlined decluttering, and has greatly reduced impulse buys.
Evaluate Frequently Used Items
Store frequently used items at eye level or within easy reach, while lesser-used items can go in upper cabinets or bins. Eye level means Eye level for your. If you and your partner have disparity in height, customize these spaces for each of you. This is about you and partner feeling great about utilizing the space together.
Time Frame: 2-3 hours (5-6 hours if changes need to be made in eye-level storage areas)
Step 4: Clean the Closet Space
Before placing anything back into the closet, take some time to clean the space. Simplifying your life feels so much better when you begin with a clean, blank, canvas. Vacuum the floor, dust the shelves, and wipe down rods or surfaces. This could also include a fresh coat of paint. Choose neutral colors that will not clash with your chosen color palette. Use eggshell to prevent scuffs. Replace any broken shelves, rods, etc.
For paint suggestions, check out Consumer Reports.
Fresh Scents for Simple Living
Consider adding scented sachets or drawer liners to keep the closet smelling fresh. Use cedar inserts for shoes, boots, and overall deodorizing. Simple and effective, and will give you a boost in mood upon entering. Most closets are located in proximity to a bathroom, use deodorizers and moisture absorbers to protect clothing.
Quick Closet Cleaning Tips
Use a microfiber cloth to dust shelving systems, and make sure to clean the baseboards if your closet has any. If you have carpet, do a deep clean and consider renting a carpet cleaner if you do not already own one, or calling a local service to take care of the job for you. You will feel so much better organizing with a clean palette.
Time Frame: 30 minutes (2-4 hours if repainting and cleaning carpet)
Step 5: Assess Closet Space and Storage Needs
Take a step back and evaluate your closet. How can you make better use of the space with the right closet storage solutions? An organized closet needs to simplify your life, and flow with your needs. Make sure you are considering your movements, and understand heights and locations of specific items you use on a daily basis.
Closet System Ideas
Consider investing in custom closets or closet systems if your current setup isn’t functional. Adjustable shelves or modular systems offer flexibility.
Make the Most of High Clutter Zones
Use baskets, bins, or shelf dividers to organize high clutter zones, such as shoe racks or accessory shelves. Do not overfill. Do not stack. Every interaction with your closet space is a chance to add value to your life. Resist the temptation to create tasks for you to complete tasks. Stacking shoes on shoes requires you to move a pair of shoes before you get the shoes you want. It’s like installing a door in front of door. It’s redundant and creates micro-waste in your life. When stacking folded items, keep your stacked items to 5 and under. We are no longer creating a denim leaning Tower of Pisa.
Time Frame: 1-2 hours (1/2 day to 1 day if starting over with a closet system)
Step 6: Utilize Vertical Storage and Closet Organizers
Maximize space by incorporating vertical storage options. Install hooks or use over-the-door organizers for shoes and bags to free up floor space.
Add Shelving Systems
Install shelves above hanging rods to store seasonal items or extra linens. Take the time to measure your clothing for height on the hanger. You may be wasting space because your closet was originally created to “generally fit” items. This is your chance to customize. This could include sections for vertical storage for shoes, boots, etc.
Use Hanging Shoe Racks
Keep shoes off the floor with hanging racks that make it easy to see your collection. Remember, you are trying to simplify your life. Rifling through low-hanging clothing just to see what shoe options you have can be annoying, frustrating, and a time-waster.
Time Frame: 1-2 hours
Step 7: Arrange Clothes by Category and Color
Organize your wardrobe by grouping clothes by type—tops, pants, dresses—and then arrange them by color within each section. Stick to this, especially if you took the time to get your colors evaluated. This will ensure you have the right amounts of colors/patterns for different occasions and seasons.
Benefits of Matching Hangers
Use matching hangers for a streamlined look. Non-slip hangers are ideal for maximizing hanging space. I prefer wooden hangers. aside from properly holding items and keeping them from stretching at stress points, they create space between clothing, and prevent me from over-crowding. Beyond this, consider the material. All hangers are not created equal and your clothing material may benefit from hangers specifically designed for them.
Closet Organization Ideas for Easy Access
Place the items you wear most often at eye level to make getting dressed quick and easy.
Time Frame: 1-2 hours
Step 8: Use Clear Storage Bins for Seasonal or Rarely Used Items
Store off-season clothing or special occasion items in clear storage bins. This keeps them organized while ensuring they’re easy to find when needed. As noted earlier, you may not prefer this at first, but after seeing the way it can reduce decision fatigue when trying to locate clothing items, you will definitely appreciate you did this. Closet organization is about adding value to your life, and reducing the time it takes to locate items will add time and space to your morning routine.
Label Storage Containers
Use labels to make it easy to identify what’s inside each bin. Schedule seasonal transitions for you and your family.
Stackable Bins for Closet Storage
Opt for stackable bins to make the most of your storage space. Stick with a bin system. Again, we are not falling into the leaning Tower of Pisa trap.
Time Frame: 1-2 hours
Step 9: Optimize Drawer Space with Dividers
Use drawer dividers to separate small items like socks, underwear, and accessories. This prevents them from becoming a jumbled mess. Be intentional with this. Properly measure the drawer spaces and understand the specifications of the solution you are purchasing, especially when buying online.
Rolling Clothes to Save Space
Roll soft items to save drawer space and make it easy to see everything at a glance. Please note, stay away from items that will easily wrinkle. Things like undershirts, underwear, sweatpants are all on the table.
Use Small Bins for Accessories
Place small bins inside drawers to store accessories like belts, scarves, or jewelry. Don’t let your closet drawers turn into the catch all junk drawer. Remember, we want to bring value through efficiency.
Time Frame: 1 hourTime Frame: 2-4 hours to add aesthetic elements.
Step 10: Develop a Maintenance Routine
Closet organization is an ongoing process. Simplifying life can be about developing habits to maintain order over time. Schedule monthly checkins. Consider other opportunities like pre/post school starting, after Christmas, Birthdays, or other events where you may receive unexpected items.
One-In, One-Out Rule
Whenever you buy something new, remove an old item to maintain balance in your closet. This is hard, but it will serve you well. Try the assess before the mess rule: examine your closet before making a purchase to see what you are willing do get rid of. If there is nothing there you are ready to separate from, maybe you should reconsider the new item. Lastly, don’t be afraid to return or exchange gifts of clothing. You’ll feel guilty for about 5 minutes, but these items need to add value. If they do not, don’t let them in.
Seasonal Closet Refresh
Plan a seasonal declutter every three months to keep your wardrobe in check. Put this on your calendar, your family calendar, or write it backwards on your forehead. Do not passover this value add opportunity.
Time Frame: Ongoing
FAQ: Creating an Efficient, Aesthetic Closet
Q: How long does it take to organize a closet using this guide?
A: You can complete the entire process in 3-4 days, with an additional 1-2 days of planning if needed.
Q: What is the best way to maintain closet organization?
A: Stick to a one-in, one-out rule and schedule regular seasonal refreshes to prevent clutter buildup.
Q: How do I optimize a small closet space?
A: Use vertical storage, drawer dividers, and over-the-door organizers to maximize space efficiently.
Q: What hangers are best for closet organization?
A: Non-slip hangers help maximize hanging space and create a uniform, streamlined look.
Q: Should I invest in custom closet systems?
A: If your current closet isn’t meeting your needs, custom closets or modular closet systems can offer additional storage and improve functionality.
Summary: A Closet That Combines Efficiency, Functionality, and Aesthetics
By following these 10 steps, you’ll simplify your life by transforming your closet into a space that is not only efficient but also aesthetically pleasing. With a focus on intentional living and practical storage solutions, you’ll reduce clutter, simplify home life, and create a system that’s easy to maintain.
This process can be completed in just 3-4 days, with a couple of extra days for planning if needed. Whether you’re working with a small closet or a walk-in wardrobe, these closet organization ideas will help you make the most of your space while keeping everything neat and accessible.
Embrace the decluttering lifestyle today and enjoy the benefits of a closet that makes getting ready a joy, not a chore.
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