How to Maximize Space in A Small Closet

Start With A Clean Slate

Once you decide you want to reorganize a space, the first step is to start with a clean slate. Begin by removing everything in the closet. That way, you can really assess the space (or lack thereof).

Whether you’re making piles in a different room or tossing items on your bed, try your best to group like items together. For instance, if it’s a closet filled with clothes, make a pile for all shirts, pants, etc. If it’s a linen closet, make groups for sheets and towels.

After it's empty, take some time to go through each pile and decide if there’s anything you can get rid of or donate. The standard rule is usually if you haven’t used it, worn it, or needed it in one year, you don’t need it. For small closets especially, it’s important to be conscious of hoarding any excess that isn’t necessary.

Use The Top and Bottom of The Closet

Oftentimes, people focus only on the middle section of a closet, as that's where the hanging rod is located. The space above the rod and below seemingly gets labeled as wasted space. However, when you’re trying to make the most of a small closet, you need to make use of every inch of space you have access to – including the top and bottom.

Installing a top shelf is a great storage solution. This section can be used to hold an array of bins and containers with as-needed items. You may need a step stool to fully access it as well.  At the bottom of your closet, you can put stackable cubbies, drawers, and shoe racks.

Since it’s probably easier to access the bottom of your closet than the top, you can use this space to organize things you use more frequently. Don’t be afraid to go the extra mile and label bins, drawers, or cubbies with exactly what’s in them. By labeling storage, you not only help yourself when you’re in a hurry, but you keep yourself accountable for putting items back in the correct spot(s).

Use Storage You Can Hang Up

Whether your small closet is for clothing, coats, or linens, there are still ways to personalize it to best fit your needs. Maybe having a hanging rod isn't beneficial, but cubby space would be more valuable to you. Fear not, you don’t have to completely redo your closet; you just need to get the proper hanging solutions. 

There are a variety of storage solutions that can be hung up in your closet. Think outside the box (or the cubby) when you’re figuring out what will work best for you– hanging cubbies, hanging drawers, hanging shoe racks, or a combination of all of the above.

Remember, you don’t have to follow instructions and use products the way the manufacturers suggest. For instance, a hanging shoe rack could also be used to store cleaning supplies. The options are endless, and the space you gain is crucial.

Don’t Forget to Accessorize

Regardless of how small your closet may be, there’s always room for accessories. While you can’t exactly accessorize with a chaise or closet island, you can still add little touches that will make a big difference – both in storage space and in looks.

Use Slim Hangers

Big, bulky hangers take up more space than you think. The Spruce recommends Huggable Hangers to not only maximize space but store your clothes effectively. Some are lined with velvet to reduce the likelihood of clothes slipping from the hangers onto the floor.

Add A Secondary Clothing Rod

If your small closet is being utilized for only clothing, you may not need stackable bins or drawers at the bottom. Maybe more hanging space is all you need? In this situation, add a second clothing rod to the bottom half of your closet.  

Over-The-Door Storage

Behind the door of your closet is prime real estate, so don’t let it go to waste. Purchase an over-the-door storage piece to make your closet more functional. You can choose from over-the-door shoe organizers or over-the-door hooks for handbags or coats.

Add Light

Prevent your closet from becoming dark and dreary by adding some light. Aside from the light making your closet appear bigger, it can also decrease the likelihood of mold. Closet Solutions & Organizers goes into further detail on this topic in 7 Ways to Fend Off Mold in Your Closets.

Maintain Your Space

Now that your closet is organized and you are using the space more effectively, you need to be conscious of keeping it that way.  If you know you’re near max capacity with clothing, try to donate or toss older items whenever newer ones are purchased. Perform frequent checks in your closet and practice the one-year rule. 

Conclusion

A small closet is not the end of the world; it just requires strategy, patience, and some creativity. So roll up your sleeves, use these tips, and admire your newly found space in your small closet.  

Sources

• https://www.closetsolutionsandorganizers.com/avoid-mold-in-your-closets
• https://www.hartvillecustomclosets.com/organizing-your-custom-closets
• https://www.thespruce.com/best-closet-organizers-4110238