Easy DIY Closet Organization; Tips and Tricks For Maximizing Your Closet Space

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Are you looking for DIY closet organization? Hometalk TV asked me to host an episode that would include how to easily organize closet space. We all love to have an organized closet free of clutter and finding storage solutions for a small closet can be especially challenging. I’m sharing DIY closet organization ideas with some tricks and hacks along the way. The best part is you can use these storage ideas to meet your exact needs and create your own custom closet without buying an expensive closet system.

DIY Closet Organization

What is the best solution for shoe storage?

You could definitely use a shoe organizer on the closet door to help you, but my closet has a sliding door so that won’t work for me.

I have found a great way to store my shoes with these clear containers. You can get these bins at the dollar store, container store, or department store.

I stack them on a high shelf, this is a great option to create extra storage space, and I can see what is inside the boxes. You can even stack them based on your frequency of use so you have easy access to the pairs of shoes you wear most frequently.

I have a collapsible stool that I keep in my closet so that I can reach it.

How do I hide open storage?

These fabric boxes from the dollar store are the perfect solution for hiding open closet storage so you don’t have a messy closet.

I place a large plastic box inside the fabric box to help them keep their shape.

You could easily go with one or the other if you like.

These boxes help with stackable storage, especially with smaller items like hats or purses.

Fold the back of a hat in, and then stack them. They fit nice and easy into a box.

I roll all of my leggings up and place them in a storage box. This works great for young kid’s pants as well.

How do you store leather belts?

How do you store ties?

How do you store jewelry?

There are great inexpensive hangers out there that you can use for accessories, belts, scarves, jewelry, and tie storage. These are particularly handy in small spaces.

How do you organize too many clothes?

I like to make outfits and store them in my closet. This is an easy way to eliminate 1 of 2 hangers on your clothing rack. Works with pants or skirts and shirt outfits.

What can I put in boots to keep shape?

Measure a pool noodle for how long it needs to be in a boot and cut it with a knife or saw.

Place the noodles in the boots to help them stand up.

How do you prevent hanging clothes from collecting dust?

You can buy garment bags, or you can poke a hole in the bottom of a garbage bag, place the hanger through the hole, and you have an inexpensive garment bag.

You can even cinch up the bottom if you like.

One of my favorite diy closet organizer ideas creates more vertical hanging space without adding additional closet rods. I Use pop tabs to connect hangers together and this generates more space in the entire closet.

What is the proper way to store handbags?

Place adhesive hooks on a door or wall.

Slide the bags onto a tension rod, inexpensive towel bar or dowel, and place into the hooks.

You could also use an s hook or shower curtain rings to hook the bags onto the rod as well.

Here is my closet makeover and I am thrilled with how it turned out!!

DIY Closet Organization Video

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Other DIY Closet Organization Tips include:

• I also like swapping out seasonal items on the top shelf.
• A shoe organizer can work great as it has pocket holes to store many items and can be put on the side of the closet using a tension rod.
• You can also create custom shelving to help with space in a room or closet. Adjustable shelves are great for so many different-sized items.
• This is one way to organize spacious walk-in closets
• You might be interested in seeing how I organize a smaller closet in my kids’ rooms.
• Place small items in a basket to keep them from getting lost
• Built-in closet organizers are great, and if you don’t have something like this you can get a hanging closet organization system for inside your kid’s closets or your master closet. (one example is a hanging sweater cubby)
• A wall-mounted coat rack can be great for jewelry, coats, bags etc.
• If you don’t want to make permanent changes hanging organizers, and command hooks can be a great option.

Learn more about “Why to Deep Clean and Organize Your Home” to save money, function better, and keep your sanity. 

DIY Closet Organization Q&A

How can I organize my closet cheaply?

Organizing your closet doesn’t have to be expensive. There are plenty of budget-friendly solutions that can help you maximize space and keep things tidy. Here are some tips on how to organize your closet cheaply:

1. Declutter: The first step to organizing your closet is to declutter it. Take everything out and sort through your clothes and belongings. Keep only the items you use, need, and love. Donate or sell the things you no longer want.
2. Use what you have: Before buying any organizing tools, see what items you already have at home that can be repurposed. Shoeboxes, baskets, and storage containers can be used to divide and categorize items.
3. DIY storage solutions: Get creative with do-it-yourself storage solutions. For example:
   • Use soda tabs to create double hangers, which save space and allow you to hang multiple items on one hook.
   • Cut cardboard or thick paper to make dividers for your shelves, separating different types of clothing or accessories.
   • Repurpose old drawers or wine crates as shelving units or storage boxes.
4. Invest in affordable organizing tools: Look for budget-friendly organizing tools at discount stores, dollar stores, or online. Some affordable options include:
   • Tension rods: These can create extra hanging space in your closet for scarves, belts, or even extra clothes.
   • Hanging shelves or shoe organizers: They are inexpensive and can help keep your shoes, accessories, or folded clothes tidy.
   • Command hooks: Great for hanging bags, hats, or jewelry on the inside of your closet door or on the walls.
   • Cloth bins and baskets: Use these to keep small items like socks, underwear, or accessories organized.
5. Utilize vertical space: Maximize your closet’s vertical space by installing additional shelves or hooks higher up. This way, you can store less frequently used items up high and keep the most used items within easy reach.
6. Rolling or folding instead of hanging: Some clothes, like T-shirts or sweaters, can be folded instead of hung to save space. Rolling clothes can also help you fit more items in a drawer or on a shelf.
7. Sort by type or color: Arrange your clothes by type or color to make it easier to find what you need and maintain order in your closet.
8. Regularly maintain and clean: Keep your closet organized by making it a habit to put things back in their designated spots and regularly decluttering. Cleaning your closet regularly will help you identify any issues and keep it tidy.

Remember that organizing your closet is a process, and it’s okay to start small. Gradually implement these tips and find what works best for your space and needs. With a little creativity and resourcefulness, you can achieve a well-organized closet without breaking the bank.

What is the best DIY closet system?

The best DIY closet system will depend on your specific needs, budget, and the size and layout of your closet. There are several popular DIY closet systems available that offer customizable options and can be tailored to suit your requirements. Here are some of the top DIY closet systems:

1. IKEA PAX: The IKEA PAX system is a highly popular and versatile option. It offers a wide range of components, including shelves, drawers, hanging rods, and accessories. You can mix and match these elements to create a custom closet that fits your space perfectly.
2. Easy Track: Easy Track is a user-friendly DIY closet system with various configurations and accessories. The system features adjustable shelves, hanging rods, and drawers, making it easy to customize your closet organization.
3. Rubbermaid Configurations: Rubbermaid Configurations is a budget-friendly option that provides adjustable shelves, rods, and add-ons. It’s straightforward to install and can be modified as your needs change.
4. ClosetMaid ShelfTrack: This system uses a track-based installation, allowing you to easily adjust the height of shelves and rods. ClosetMaid offers a variety of components to suit your storage needs.
5. John Louis Home: If you prefer a more elegant and high-end option, John Louis Home DIY closet systems might be a good choice. They offer solid wood shelving and various design options.
6. Elfa: Elfa, available at The Container Store, is known for its high-quality and flexible closet systems. It offers a wide range of components and finishes to create a customized storage solution.

When choosing the best DIY closet system, consider the following factors:

• Budget: Determine how much you’re willing to spend on your closet system. Some options can be more affordable, while others may require a higher investment.
• Space and Layout: Measure your closet space and consider its layout. Choose a system that fits your closet dimensions and complements its design.
• Storage Needs: Assess what items you need to store and how much hanging space, shelving, and drawers you require. Pick a system that caters to your specific storage needs.
• Quality and Durability: Look for a system made from durable materials that can withstand daily use and last for a long time.
• Customizability: The best DIY closet system should offer flexibility and allow you to adjust the components to suit your changing needs.

Before purchasing, read customer reviews and check for installation requirements to ensure that the system you choose is well-suited to your DIY skills and preferences. Additionally, some companies may offer design tools or consultations to help you plan and visualize your closet organization before making a purchase.

How do I make my closet less cluttered?

Making your closet less cluttered requires a bit of time, effort, and organization. Here are some practical steps to help you declutter and create a more organized closet:

1. Empty your closet: Start by taking everything out of your closet. This will allow you to see all your items and assess what you have.
2. Sort and categorize: Create piles or sections for different categories of items, such as clothes, shoes, accessories, and miscellaneous items. This will make it easier to see what you have and identify any duplicates or items you no longer need.
3. Declutter: Go through each category and decide what to keep, donate, sell, or discard. Be honest with yourself about what you actually wear and need. Let go of items that no longer serve you or bring you joy.
4. Use the KonMari method: Consider using the KonMari method by Marie Kondo, which involves keeping only items that “spark joy.” This can help you prioritize what to keep and what to let go of.
5. Maximize vertical space: Install additional shelves or hanging organizers to make use of vertical space. This will provide more storage options and prevent items from piling up on the floor.
6. Use organizers: Invest in storage organizers such as hanging shelves, shoe racks, and drawer dividers. These will help keep your items separated and easily accessible.
7. Use clear bins or containers: Transparent bins or containers allow you to see the contents at a glance, making it easier to find what you need without creating a mess.
8. Keep frequently used items accessible: Place items you use regularly within easy reach. Store less frequently used items on higher shelves or in the back of the closet.
9. Consider seasonal rotation: If you have limited space, consider rotating your clothes and accessories seasonally. Store off-season items in bins or under the bed to free up space in your closet.
10. Be mindful of new purchases: Before buying new items, think about whether you truly need them and if you have space to store them in your closet. Avoid impulse purchases that can contribute to clutter.
11. Regularly review and declutter: Schedule regular closet clean-outs to review your items and remove anything you no longer need. This will help prevent clutter from building up again.
12. Maintain organization: Make it a habit to put items back in their designated spots after use. Encourage family members or roommates to do the same if it’s a shared closet.

Remember, decluttering and organizing your closet is a process, and it’s okay to take it one step at a time. Be patient with yourself and make adjustments as needed to create a clutter-free and organized space that works for you.

Check out some of my other organization posts!

• Closet Organization Hacks: Easy and Awesome DIYs on a Budget
• Easy and Amazing Organize Entryway Closet Tips with Video
• 9 Super Easy Small Space Organization Hacks for Your Home

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