Closet Storage Solutions to Stay Organized Each Season
In an organized home, there are some spaces that require more maintenance than others. Closets are certainly one of them! The contents of closets - especially those containing clothing - often change on a seasonal basis, so it can be challenging to implement systems that are adaptable for your evolving needs. However, it is not impossible. An organized closet can make you feel happier, less stressed, and more efficient in your daily routines. If you currently feel like crying as you close your closet door each season, you need to take a look at the closet storage solutions below!
Take Stock of Your Current Systems
To maintain an organized closet all year long, organization systems should be revisited at the start or end of each season. Take some time to understand how you plan to use the space. If the purpose of the space or its contents vary from winter to summer, be sure to take that into account as you are planning. My previous blog on closet organization explains what kinds of questions you should ask yourself before jumping into a complete organization overhaul.
Don’t Keep What You Don’t Need
The start of a new season is the perfect time for a reset, so purging is another important part of the closet organization process. After you have determined how you plan to use your closet, consider whether you really need everything that is currently in it. Be sure to remove any items that don’t belong in the space, such as memorabilia, linens, toys, or files.
If clothing is worn, no longer needed, or covered in a thick layer of dust, it is time to let it go. Consider donating it to a charity. Not only will the item help someone in need, but it will also help to generate jobs for others. If the article of clothing is in excellent condition, a consignment store is another promising option. Just keep in mind that consignment stores typically have very strict guidelines to determine what they will sell. Do not be offended if your item does not meet these requirements. You can always look to a donation center or give the item to a loved one who will cherish it instead.
Sort by Season
With a purpose for your space and the clutter cleared away, it’s finally time to sort the remaining contents of your closet. Your main closet should be used first and foremost for clothes that are currently in season.
That may be all you can fit in a small closet, and that’s okay. You can rotate the articles of clothing in your main closet based on the seasons. For example, you can use your main closet for shorts and T-shirts in summer, and replace them with coats and sweaters in winter. Store out-of-season items in a guest bedroom closet, or in vacuum-sealed bags under the bed, to save space (just be sure that you have decided how much room your guests will need before you transfer your wardrobe to a guest bedroom closet).
If you are lucky enough to have a large walk-in closet, you may find that your entire wardrobe fits in one place. Items should still be organized and rotated according to season to keep the space from feeling too crowded and chaotic. Nobody wants to hunt through 20 sweaters in the middle of summer to find their favorite T-shirt! In-season clothing should be stored in the front of your closet to make it easily accessible.
Double hang closet rods are a helpful space-saving solution. If there’s enough room, consider installing one in your closet and hanging clothing that you wear most often on the rod that is at eye level. Be sure to use sturdy hangers, too. This will help keep heavy items from sagging or falling to the bottom of your closet, especially when clothing is bulky in winter.
Shelving can also make your closet more practical and attractive. You can use high shelves to store out-of-season clothing and shoes, as well as accessories that are worn infrequently. Storing sweaters on shelves will help them keep their shape and avoid becoming stretched out. You can also store out-of-season shoes, handbags, and accessories, such as hats and gloves, on shelves. I recommend putting these items in stackable clear plastic bins with lids, so that you can keep them protected and still see the contents easily.
As you can see, creating an organized closet is a simple process that involves assessing your current situation, anticipating seasonal needs, and planning accordingly. However, even if you are a conscientious planner, we know that old habits can be hard to break. If you need some help getting started, we would be happy to show you how to develop closet storage solutions that will meet your needs year-round. Reach out to us to schedule a consultation today!