Long, narrow closets can pose a problem when it comes to finding enough room to store things without cluttering up the space. The most effective method for dealing with a long, narrow closet involves identifying what you want use the closet for and then getting things organized. There are many tools and methods of organization you can utilize when trying to create a functional closet. Does this Spark an idea?
Organizational Tools
Julie Morganstern, a professional organizer with House Beautiful, recommends a variety of organizational tools to maximize space in a long and narrow closet. For hanging options she recommends using multiple rods hung at different levels, one high for longer items and one lower rod for shorter items. Also use multi-item hangers that can hold more than one piece at a time and fold down when not in use. For purses and other accessories, there are a variety of shelf boxes/dividers in materials like wood, plastic and fabric. Hang or place these boxes over shelving to maximize vertical space and separate purses, shoes and totes. To hang belts, purses or hats attach hooks to an open wall or the ceiling of your closet; they will be easier to find and will not get cluttered or lost.
Closet Layout Options
Before choosing a layout, you need to decide how you need to use the space. Do you need to fit everything in your space, from hanging and folded clothes to shoes and accessories? Or do you only need room for hanging items? There is an optimal layout for each need.
If you want to store everything in your closet, hang a rod close to the ceiling but where you can easily reach it, directly in the center of the longest wall of the closest. Leave room on either side of the rod and place a shelf above it to use up all the vertical space. On one side of the rod install open shelves for hats and shoes. On the opposite side insert a tower of drawers to store folded clothes. If you need more hanging space, install a second rod halfway between the first rod and the floor. This rod can be used for shorter clothes.
If you only need room for hanging clothes simply hang one long rod across the longest wall of the closet near the ceiling and a second rod half way down the vertical line of the wall.
These layout recommendations will allow you to customize your closet to your particular needs.
Tags: your closet, everything your, folded clothes, long narrow, long narrow closet