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Closet Organizing Tips
Closets come in many sizes and shapes. Decide what the purpose of the closet is - Linen, Utility, Storage, Daily Clothes, Off Season Clothes, or Entry/Hall Closets.
PURGE: Have a large trash bag for items you will be tossing out, a box for items you will donate, and perhaps another container for items you will give away or sell. Start by removing each item in your closet and decide whether it will stay in your closet. If it does not belong in the closet you are working in, does it belong in another area of the house? If so, remove and put in its proper location. Eliminate clothes that don't fit or are soiled or simply do not look good on you anymore.
SORT: Make piles on the bed or floor for all "like items" pants, tops, jackets, belts, shoes, tools, lightbulbs, paper goods, toiletries, etc. This is a good way to see just how many of one category you have and how little for another. It is also a good time to see what gaps you have in your clothes wardrobe - a good time to make your shopping list.
PLAN: OK, now you know what needs to go back into the closet, so consider your space and how best to arrange and place them. Put "like items" together and arrange by color - light to dark. To distinguish between blue and black, I separate by red or you can put a ribbon on the hangers for blue items. Use shelves or the closet floor for shoes and again put in order by category or use and then color. Consider the closet door for hanging ties and belts or robe and PJ's.
CONTAINERIZE & LABEL: My favorite containers are clear plastic, square or oblong - easier to see what is in them. Place off season items like sweaters or perhaps all ski wear and store under a bed or closet floor or shelf. Use fabric boxes or baskets for things like socks or underwear or stockings. Floor baskets for laundry or dry cleaning. Don't forget to label or maybe put a polaroid picture on the front end.
Wow, take a look at your closet now! The nice thing about organizing a closet is that you can do them quickly giving you the feeling of satisfaction and encouragement to tackle your next organizing project.
Happy Organizing!
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