Big Ideas for Small Closets

Tips and tricks for making the most of limited space

When it comes to a small clothes closet, the key to making it work starts with maximizing every inch of space. That way, you can find exactly what you’re looking for without digging through piles of stuff (and stressing yourself out in the process).

First, though, you’ll need to pare down the items you already own. Start by taking everything out and sorting it into a pile to keep, a pile to donate, and a pile to toss. Remember, if an item doesn’t spark joy or you can’t remember the last time you wore it, it’s time to say goodbye.

Then consider the following space savers and create a plan based on what will work best for you.

Store items seasonally. Because space is at a premium, you’ll save yourself some headaches by only keeping what you need in your closet per season. Store out-of-season clothes and shoes under your bed in garment bags or in a closet elsewhere in your home.

Take full advantage of the top shelf. If you have a shelf in your closet, add storage baskets for smaller items like gloves, scarves, belts and other accessories.
Utilize the bottom of your closet, too. If you have space under your clothing rack, add a small chest of drawers, mesh pull-out drawers or a shoe rack/stacking shoe shelves.
Double up. Consider adding a second hanging rod, if the length of your clothes allows.
Swap out hangers. Padded, fabric-covered hangers look nice, but all that padding takes up a lot of valuable real estate. Swap them out for slim, velvet, no-slip hangers.
Don’t forget about the back of the door. An over-the-door organizer works great for storing sneakers, jewelry and sunglasses. Or try mini-hanging baskets for belts and clutches. You can even hang larger bags on the back of the door using adhesive hooks.

Install a dimmer. Soft, dim light is comforting, relaxing and perfecting for kicking back on a fall evening. Switch out a standard light switch with a dimmer and you’ll have an easy way to create the perfect mood for dinner with friends.

Light some candles. The warm glow of candlelight exudes serenity. Arrange candles of varying heights on a tray, then place the tray on a coffee or side table (of course, make sure you don’t leave lit candles unattended).

Bring the outdoors in. Feathery, dried grasses and flowers straight from your garden (or your local farmer’s market or craft store) in a ceramic or clear glass vase complement a tranquil vibe.