Maximize Closet Space
Whether you have a walk-in that is filled to the brim with junk, or a small cupboard-style closet that just needs some TLC, there are a few simple steps to follow to make your closet go from cluttered to organized, and make the most of the space you've got. Does this Spark an idea?
Instructions
1. Gut it! In order to get the most out of your closet space, the very first thing you'll have to do is take everything out and separate it into piles. I personally like to write down an inventory for larger closets, as you're apt to lose yourself amongst the vast amounts of junk you pull out. But if you're confident that you can stay organized by just making piles, then more power to you.
2. Ditch it. If your closet is a real mess, then the problem is probably that you have too much stuff. Take a good look at what has come out of your now-barren closet. Generally you'll want to get rid of 5 to 10 percent of your stuff about once a year, just because you'll probably increase what you put in there by the same amount. However, most people don't have these annual rituals, so you may have to thin what you have in your closet by 30 to 40 percent Of course it is very hard to let go of some old things, but think of donating them to a local charity or having a yard sale to put the items to good use.
3. Install shelving. If you already have shelving, then you can skip this step. Shelving in a closet is probably the most vital step in maximizing space. Of course you don't want it to be cluttered, but you want double shelves on each wall for clothing, and if you use your closet to house shoes and accessories, you'll definitely want four or five short shelves for those. For those of you who are not budget-conscious, there are custom shelf builders who will come and build shelves to suit your needs. However, installing basic shelving (like the one in the picture) is generally just as effective as custom shelving
4. Put in several containers. Because closets normally hold more than clothes, I find large plastic containers to be the way to go for all your extra storage needs. Plan for how many bins you want in your closet first, and then work out what you want to keep in them.
5. Put everything back. After placing your bins and installing your shelves, the easiest part is going to be putting everything back. You'll find that with the shelves and bins in place, you'll have a lot more room, and your closet will look a whole lot cleaner. But in the unlikely even that all of your stuff still doesn't fit in your closet, you may want to take another look at your possessions and see if there isn't anything else you can throw out.
Tags: your closet, Closet Space, everything back, Maximize Closet, Maximize Closet Space, your stuff
