Maximize Closet Storage In 4 Easy Steps

You can be sure that each and every inch of your home is being utilized by maximizing your closet storage. Storage in many homes' closets can be very limited, making it important to use all of the space that you have.

Use these 4 easy tips for ultimate organization.

1. De-clutter. You'll be surprised at how much bigger your closet will look after a de-cluttering. The easiest way to eliminate clutter is to empty the space completely, so that you can put back only what you're sure to use. 

Separate your clothing and accessories into four piles: to keep, to sell or donate, to throw out, and to put into storage. If you haven't worn it in the past year, give it away. If it has too many holes or stains for charity, toss it. If it is 90 degrees outside, put that fur coat in a storage bin. Make sure that everything left in the "keep" pile, is something that you'll use often, and in the near future. 

2. Install storage. Just because your closet came with one metal rod and a rickety shelf, doesn't mean that you're out of luck. Wooden shelves are inexpensive and fairly easy to install. Hang one about 1 foot above the floor; it give you another layer to stack shoes on. Get plastic, adhesive wall hooks to attach to the back or side walls of your closet. They'll hold belts, scarves, and purses.

If you don't have a lot of built-in storage, plastic bins or photo boxes can be extremely useful for organization. They are inexpensive at any craft store, and can hold hats, gloves, scarves, and even shoes that you may want to keep nice. Label each box with a sticker, or even a photo of what is inside. Stack them on a shelf, in cubby holes if you have them, or on the floor.

It can be helpful to hang two shorter rods rather than one long one. Hang one up high for longer articles of clothing like dresses and shirts. The other one should hang lower for shorts, folded pants, and skirts. 

3. Regroup. When you are ready to put your clothes back, be sure to group them together according to style. It will be easier to keep your closet neat and organized when shirts hang with shirts, and pants with pants. You can organize them further by color, length, and fabric if you want. Group your shoes on the floor and shelf according to type. The more meticulously you organize, the more pleasant your closet will look, and the easier you'll be able to keep it looking organized. 

4. Keep it clean. We all know how quickly a closet can go from spick and span, to chaotic and disorganized. Be sure to know what is allowed in each closet. Know exactly what bin it belongs in, or what bar or shelf it belongs on. Keep a hamper in closets with clothing, and make sure that all dirty clothes end up in the hamper with the empty hangers kept together.