How to Organize a Closet With Lots of Clothes

Organizing a closet bursting with clothes can feel overwhelming, but with a thoughtful approach, it can become a manageable and even enjoyable task. Whether you’re looking to create more space, find your favorite items more easily, or simply bring order to chaos, these simple steps will guide you through the process of how to organize a closet with lots of clothes effectively.

Step 1: Empty and Assess Your Closet

Start by taking everything out of your closet. This step allows you to see the full extent of what you own and provides a clean slate to work with. Lay all your clothes out on your bed or a large surface, grouping similar items together. This way, you can easily assess the volume and types of clothing you have.

Step 2: Sort and Declutter

Go through each item and decide whether to keep, donate, or discard it. A good rule of thumb is to let go of anything you haven’t worn in the last year, items that no longer fit, or pieces that are damaged beyond repair. This step helps reduce clutter and makes it easier to organize the remaining items.

If you are like me, this is the hardest step. I tend to want to keep everything! This is not a good thing, but the older I get, I do realize I don’t really need that many clothes. I tend to gravitate to having more of a capsule wardrobe. A capsule wardrobe is collection a of a few key pieces that can be used to make a variety of outfits.

Tips for Decluttering:

• Ask Yourself: Do I love it? Do I wear it often? Does it fit well?
• Consider the Season: If you’re organizing in the summer, put winter clothes aside for seasonal storage.
• Be Honest: It’s tempting to hold onto “just in case” items, but if you don’t see yourself wearing something soon, it’s best to let it go.

Step 3: Categorize and Group

Organize your remaining clothes into categories such as tops, bottoms, dresses, outerwear, accessories, and shoes. Within each category, further sort by subcategories like casual, formal, or workwear. This makes it easier to locate specific items and maintain order.

Step 4: Choose the Right Storage Solutions

Invest in storage solutions that suit your space and needs. Here are some ideas:

• Hangers: Use matching hangers for a cohesive look. Choose slim, non-slip hangers to maximize space. My favorite are the velvet nonslip hangers.
• Drawers and Shelves: Install extra shelves or drawers for items like sweaters, jeans, and accessories. Consider drawer dividers to keep small items organized.
• Storage Bins: Clear or labeled bins are perfect for off-season clothes or less frequently used items. Place these on high shelves or under the bed.
• Shoe Racks: Keep shoes organized with racks, shelves, or over-the-door organizers. This not only saves space but also keeps your footwear easily accessible.

Step 5: Maximize Closet Space

Make the most of your closet space with these techniques:

• Double Hanging Rods: Install a second rod to hang more clothes, especially shorter items like shirts and skirts.
• Hooks and Racks: Use wall-mounted hooks for bags, scarves, or hats. Over-the-door racks can hold shoes, belts, or accessories.
• Under-Shelf Baskets: These under-shelf baskets can provide extra storage for items like handbags or scarves without taking up much space.

Step 6: Create a System and Maintain It

Establish a system that works for you. This could be organizing by color, season, or outfit type. Label shelves or bins if needed, and make sure everything has a designated spot.

To maintain your organized closet, do a quick tidy-up regularly. Rotate your wardrobe seasonally, and continue to declutter periodically to prevent build-up.

Step 7: Personalize Your Closet

Add personal touches to make your closet an inviting space. This could include:

• Lighting: Good lighting helps you see everything clearly and makes the space feel more pleasant.
• Decor: Mirrors, artwork, or a small rug can make the closet feel more like a boutique.
• Aromatics: Keep your closet smelling fresh with candles, diffusers, or an air freshener.

Conclusion

Organizing a closet with lots of clothes may take some time and effort, but the results are well worth it. With a systematic approach, you can transform your closet into a functional and aesthetically pleasing space that makes getting dressed a joy. The key to a well-organized closet is to keep it maintained, so make it a habit to tidy up regularly and reassess your clothing collection periodically.