A small closet can easily become a cluttered mess if you’re not intentional about how you use the space. But the good news is that with the right organization strategies, you can maximize every inch of your closet, transforming it into a well-organized, functional area that makes getting ready a breeze. Whether you’re trying to make your closet more efficient or simply tidy up, these small closet organization ideas will help you take full advantage of your limited space.
For more expert advice, be sure to read our Ultimate Custom Closet Inspiration Guide!
Small Closet Organization Ideas: Things to Add, Things to Subtract
1. Remove Items That Don’t Belong
The first step to any successful closet organization is decluttering. Over time, closets tend to accumulate items that don’t belong, such as things you only use once a year or objects that are too large for the space. For example, a suitcase that’s only used when you travel annually might not need to be taking up valuable space in your closet all year round.
The key here is to assess what you actually need and use regularly. Items like seasonal clothing, extra blankets, or large storage boxes can often take up a lot of space in a small closet. Removing these items or relocating them elsewhere will instantly create more room for the things you wear and use more often.
2. Use Hooks Behind the Door
One often overlooked area in a small closet is the back of the door. While it may seem like wasted space, it’s a prime area to add hooks or pegs that can hold frequently used items. Think about those items that always end up on a doorknob, like a hoodie or scarf. Instead of letting them pile up on the floor or clutter the closet, simply hang them on hooks behind the door.
This simple solution not only clears up space on the floor and shelves but also helps keep your most-used clothing items within easy reach. It’s a practical and effective way to make the most of your closet without adding extra furniture or taking up too much room.
3. Add Drawers to Your Closet
When organizing a small closet, maximizing vertical space is crucial. Adding drawers inside the closet can be a game-changer for keeping smaller items neat and tidy. Drawers provide a place to store socks, underwear, accessories, and even shoes, making it easier to keep things organized and within reach.
Installing drawers inside your closet also reduces the need for extra furniture in your room, helping to free up space in the rest of the area. With custom closet systems, you can choose the size and configuration of the drawers to suit your needs, whether you want a few shallow ones for small accessories or deep ones for bulkier items.
4. Install Shoe Shelves Within the Closet
Shoes are often one of the biggest culprits when it comes to cluttering up a closet. If you’re dealing with a small space, piles of shoes on the floor can quickly make your closet feel even more cramped. The good news is that with a bit of planning, you can create a neat and functional shoe storage system right inside your closet.
Shoe shelves are an excellent solution. You can install adjustable shelves within the closet to store shoes neatly and accessibly. These shelves can be positioned at various heights, allowing you to store different types of shoes, from boots to flats to sneakers, without taking up floor space.
If your closet is particularly tight, consider using over-the-door shoe racks or hanging organizers that don’t take up any shelf space but still keep your shoes tidy and visible.
Small Closet Organization Ideas: Space Magic
5. Slim Hangers to Maximize Space
In a small closet, every inch counts, so it’s crucial to use hangers that allow you to fit more clothing without overcrowding the space. Slim velvet hangers are a great option as they take up less space than traditional wooden or plastic hangers while also preventing clothes from slipping off. The thin profile of these hangers ensures you can fit more items on a single rod, helping maximize closet space without creating a cramped, disorganized mess.
Additionally, uniform hangers give your closet a neat and cohesive look, making it easier to find what you need quickly. When everything matches and hangs at the same height, your closet will feel more streamlined and spacious.
6. Use Sliding Doors Instead of Swinging Doors
If your closet has traditional swinging doors, you might be wasting valuable space. Swinging doors take up room when open, which can be an issue in small spaces. If you’re looking to save space, consider replacing the swinging doors with sliding doors, which don’t require additional clearance to open.
Sliding doors can be installed easily and offer the benefit of more accessible closet space without any additional steps or swinging motion. You can choose from a variety of designs to match your room’s aesthetic, and you’ll gain a few extra inches of usable space in the process.
7. Maximize Vertical Space
One of the best ways to make the most of a small closet is to use vertical space. By installing shelves or additional rods higher up in the closet, you can store items that are used less frequently, such as off-season clothing or special occasion outfits. This allows you to reserve the lower space for items you need more often, like daily wear or shoes.
If you’re tight on space, consider adding a second rod for shorter items like shirts, dresses, or jackets. This double-rod setup maximizes closet space without making it feel overcrowded. Use bins, baskets, or labelled boxes to store smaller items on higher shelves.
8. Incorporate Adjustable Shelving and Modular Systems
When organizing a small closet, flexibility is key. Adjustable shelving systems allow you to configure the space according to your needs, making it easier to store different types of items. Modular systems can be customized to include shelves, drawers, hanging rods, and even shoe racks, all designed to fit your closet’s unique dimensions.
By using modular systems, you can ensure that every inch of your closet is used effectively, no matter how small the space. The versatility of these systems means that you can adapt them as your needs change, whether you need more hanging space for clothing or more drawers for accessories.
Small Closet Organization Ideas FAQ
How do I decide what belongs in my closet?
When deciding whether an item belongs in your closet, ask yourself: “Do I use this item often?” If the answer is no or “only seasonally,” find a better place for it. For example, off-season clothing can be stored in bins under the bed or in a storage area, freeing up valuable closet space.
How do I install hooks behind the door?
Installing hooks behind the door is easy and affordable. You can buy adhesive hooks or a small rack that attaches to the top or bottom of the door. Choose hooks that are sturdy enough to hold your most-used items, and place them where they’re easily accessible but out of sight when the door is closed.
Can I install drawers in any closet?
Yes, many closets can benefit from the addition of drawers. If you’re working with a particularly small closet, consider modular drawers that fit into a customized system. If you’re going the DIY route, you can also use shallow, stackable storage bins that fit neatly into your closet’s existing shelves.
How do I organize shoes in a small closet?
For small closets, the key is to keep shoes elevated and accessible. Use narrow shelves to store shoes in an organized manner, or consider clear bins for shoes you don’t wear daily. For a minimalist approach, opt for a shoe rack that stores shoes side by side, which maximizes available shelf space.
Are velvet hangers worth the investment?
Yes, velvet hangers are often more durable and space-saving than traditional hangers. Their slim design allows for more efficient use of your closet’s hanging space, while the non-slip coating ensures that your clothes stay put. They are a great investment if you want to maximize your closet’s potential.
Are sliding doors easy to install?
Yes, sliding doors are relatively easy to install and are available in many styles and materials, from mirrored to frosted glass. If you’re not comfortable installing them yourself, you can always hire a professional for a seamless fit.
What should I store on higher shelves in my closet?
On higher shelves, you should store items that aren’t used as frequently, such as seasonal clothing, holiday decorations, or spare bedding. The higher shelves are also ideal for storing extra shoes or handbags that are rarely used.
Can I install adjustable shelving myself?
Yes, adjustable shelving units can often be installed by homeowners with basic tools. Many systems come with easy-to-follow instructions, and they allow you to create a custom storage solution for your closet.
Bringing Your Small Closet Organization Ideas to Life
Maximizing every inch of a small closet is all about being intentional with your storage and using the space wisely. By removing items that don’t belong, using hooks, adding drawers, and implementing shelving for shoes, you can keep your closet organized and clutter-free. With the right strategies, even the smallest of spaces can be transformed into an efficient and functional area for your wardrobe.
If you’re ready to take your closet to the next level, Closet Envy is passionate about serving our Southern Ontario communities like Burlington, Guelph, Hamilton, Milton, Mississauga, Niagara, Oakville, and Waterdown.
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