Few homes have enough space for everyone’s things – especially all the clothes that pile up from season to season. If your closet looks like an out-of-control mess, it’s time to do some decluttering.
This guide will show you how to maximize closet space and store seasonal clothes.
Remove Seasonal Clothes
Look in your closet. If your hangers have clothes that span the four seasons, that’s the first problem. You don’t need to access your wool sweaters in the heat of summer or heavy coats when spring arrives.
If you’ve run out of closet space, remove those out-of-season clothes and place them on the bed. Now look at your closet — voila! Instant additional storage for your in-season wardrobe.
Sort Out-of-Season Clothes
Look at your out-of-season clothes. If you’ve never organized your closet, there may be years — even decades — of clothes you’ve stored and forgotten. There’s a good chance many items no longer fit or suit your taste. If you never plan to wear something again, place it in a donation box.
You may be surprised how fast the donation box fills up. Go through each item and ruthlessly remove clothes you’ll never wear again. If you’re unsure, ask yourself when you last wore it. If it has been over a year, chances are you don’t need it. Donating gently used clothes is a great way to declutter while benefiting those in need.
For the remaining out-of-season clothes, inspect them for damage. Set aside anything that needs mending or alterations before being stored.
Box Them Up
Now, look at the out-of-season clothes you have left. You may have half the number you started with, but the items still need to go somewhere: inside boxes.
Maximize closet space by using shelves to store currently unneeded items. Visit a home and garden center or big box store and purchase clear plastic storage containers for folded sweaters, shirts, and shoes you don’t need in the current season. These storage containers are practical and inexpensive, and because they’re clear, you can always find what you’re looking for if you need it.
You also can use cloth boxes or bags for a designer look. Pack up those clothes neatly and stick them wherever you have shelf space. You can decide how to shift the overall closet organization later.
Tips for packing out-of-season clothes:
Fold clothes neatly to maximize space and prevent wrinkles
Label boxes by season and type so you can easily find needed items later
Store delicate fabrics like silks in breathable garment bags
Use cedar blocks or sachets with scents like lavender to keep clothes fresh
Store Clothes Under the Bed
Have you maxed out on overhead storage? Then go low instead — like under your bed.
Under-bed storage is perfect for items you don’t need daily. You can tuck sweaters away in containers (or custom drawers attached to the bed frame). Out of sight, out of mind. That’s the point of decluttering, and you’ll feel better.
Under-bed storage tips:
Add drawers if you want enclosed, dust-free storage
Make sure bins and boxes slide easily
Store items you won’t need frequently
Use containers with wheels for easier access
Enjoy Your Well-organized Closet
Now, you’ve maximized closet space and stored out-of-season items out of view. Enjoy your decluttered closet! Buy new in-season clothes, build a shoe rack for more footwear, or use the space however you want. It doesn’t have to be for clothes or shoes — it can accommodate anything you want out of view. After all, it’s your home and should meet your unique needs — there are no rules.
Ideas for the newfound space:
Add a jewelry armoire or stand for small items
Create a dressing area with a mirror, chair, and lighting
Designate an area for laundry sorting and supplies
Install more shelves or racks to display accessories
So, Is Closet Organization Worth the Effort?
Organizing your closet takes time and effort, but the payoff is enormous. You’ll eliminate clothes you don’t wear, free up space for purchases, and find items faster when needed. A decluttered closet also reduces stress and makes getting dressed easier. The key is maintaining the organization system once it’s in place. Make decluttering and reorganizing your closet a semi-annual ritual, and you’ll reap rewards year after year.
If you’re inspired to tackle additional organization projects, check out easy ways to reorganize your kitchen and increase bathroom storage space.
FAQs About Closet Organization
How often should I declutter my closet?
Declutter your closet at least twice a year when switching seasonal clothing. Doing a deep clean semi-annually prevents accumulation and ensures you reevaluate your wardrobe.
What's the best way to store sweaters?
Fold sweaters neatly and store them in breathable containers, not plastic bags. Doing this rather than hanging them prevents stretching and maintains their shape.
How can I add more closet storage?
Add shelves above rods or install a second rod for double hanging space. Use ottomans, stackable shelves, or slide-out drawers under hanging clothes to use floor space. Creating a custom closet system helps you use storage space to its full potential.
What are signs it’s time to declutter your closet?
It’s time to declutter if you have limited space, clothes not worn in over a year, or frequently can’t find what you need. Overflowing shelves, packed rods, and floor clutter show your closet needs organizing.
What should I do with clothes to donate?
Look for local charity drop-off bins or schedule a pickup. For excellent-quality, higher-end items, consignment shops and resale sites are other options.
