Assessing your closet for a new organization system is a straightforward process that, if done correctly, will maximize your space, take better care of your belongings and make getting dressed every morning less of a challenge. Before deciding what type of organizer to invest in, evaluate your needs based on the type of items stored. Is there a single rod where shelves would work more effectively? Whether you have a standard reach-in closet or a larger walk-in space, the most important piece is this: Measure twice, and be sure your numbers are accurate before ordering your supplies. Does this Spark an idea?
Instructions
1. Clear out the closet completely. Sort items into groups so you'll know what kind of organizing system you need. If you're working with clothing, make the pieces you wear most often the easiest to access. When you consider what you're storing, you can start to envision the best use of the space.
2. Carefully measure the empty closet space, rounding each measurement down to the nearest 1/8th of an inch. As accurately as possible, measure each dimension at least twice to be sure. Write down the numbers as you go. Measure the width between the two inside walls across the back. Measure the depth by marking the inside of the left and right walls to the back. Measure the height from the floor to the ceiling and from the front and back to be sure they are the same. Take the measurement of the width of the doorway from frame to frame. Don't forget to take the height of the doorway. Record the position of any built-in fixtures, too.
3. Draw a mock-up of your closet space to illustrate its shape and ideal function. Indicate on the diagram what kind of doors are in use. Sketch out a few options in which standard-size storage units add up close to the width, depth and height of the closet. Experiment with different placement of rods, shelves and shoe racks. Make full use of vertical space for long-term storage.
4. Depending on the size of the space, your budget and the items being stored in the closet, consider the different types of storage solutions available. There are lower-priced covered wire shelving units or built-ins with a mix of rods, drawers and shelves. Every option comes in standard dimensions of 18 inches, 24 inches, 27 inches and 48 inches. Add the widths of the units you choose to equal the width available in your closet space. If you have a four-foot-wide reach-in closet, you will need two 24-inch units to build into the closet. If you have a walk-in closet, you can design the space more like a room, including seating and plush carpeting. With a walk-in closet, you can choose from a larger array of options, including custom freestanding or built-in cabinetry and shelving. A home improvement store closet specialist can assist you with choosing adequate and dimensionally accurate storage units.
Tags: closet space, inches inches, your closet, back Measure, inches inches inches
