35 Best Closet Organization Ideas to Improve Your Morning Routine
Here's how to maximize even the smallest of spaces.
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From small wardrobes to spacious walk-in closets, a cluttered space makes it nearly impossible to find what you need — especially when you're already stressed about showing up to work or making a dinner reservation on time. Without organization systems in place, clothes, shoes and accessories will quickly pile up and turn to clutter. But, don't worry: If you're not sure where to start, we've rounded up clever closet organization ideas that'll streamline your space.
Before you begin hanging shelves, labeling baskets or color-coordinating clothing, we suggest editing your growing wardrobe and shoe collection. Then, it's time to assign every item a home. You can't go wrong with a closet organization system, but they can get pricey. For renters and homeowners on a budget, we've included plenty of DIY hacks — think dividers for handbags, hooks for hats or jewelry and decorative bins to corral accessories.
Below, find a mix of interior design inspiration and professional organizer tips that'll help you add style, while tackling bedroom clutter. And while most of these ideas work best in the primary bedroom, we've sprinkled in genius ways to tackle chaos in your kids' spaces.
First Things First, Purge Your Closet
There's no point in organizing clothes or accessories you never wear. Make a donation pile and as you organize, add items you haven't worn or used in the last year! Here's a great example of a minimal collection on display from designer Anastasia Casey of The Interior Collective.
Swap in Matching Hangers
Streamline your closet with all matching hangers (personally, I prefer velvet hangers). Professional organizers Danna Bitton and Shira Rom Bitton of Organize Dwell suggest grouping like items, so it's easy to find exactly what you need.
Use Dividers for Handbags
Adjustable clear shelf dividers (which are super affordable on Amazon) instantly refresh this walk-in closet and give each purse a home. Added bonus? This setup will also help your handbags keep their shape.
Use a Mix of Storage Solutions
For a newborn baby, Laura Kinsella of Urban OrgaNYze installs clothing racks, drawers and shelves, then adds various bins to accommodate more than just clothing.
Group Clothing by Color and Style
Separate clothing by type (think dresses, short-sleeve tops, long-sleeve tops and pants) and colors, or honestly whatever system works best for you! And if you've got at least five sequined outfits, feel free to give them their own section.
Incorporate Comfortable Seating
If you've got the space, reserve a comfortable place to sit — it's helpful for trying on shoes. In this modern setup, designer Nicole Hirsch opts for a curved bench.
Install Recessed Lighting
Brighten up your everyday items by adding small LED lights on each shelf, just as Organize Dwell does here. This way, you can properly see every color and detail, and can ensure matching fits.
Keep Small Accessories in Drawers
Those small items you tend to misplace, like socks, sunglasses or cuff links, can be neatly organized in drawers. This keeps your must-haves within reach, while freeing up much-needed counter space.
Add a Dresser
For added storage and style, design firm K Interiors brings a wood dresser into this luxe walk-in. Use the drawers for small articles of clothing, like under garments and socks, and accessories, like scarves.
Try a Closet System
Organizing on a budget? Save yourself the hassle and price tag of built-in shelving by mounting a closet system. Most can be customized or adjusted to fit your space.
Build in a Pull-Out Pants Rack
Men who regularly wear dress pants will love a pull-out rack to keep them wrinkle-free. And to make the most of vertical space, hang tiers of shelves to the ceiling — just keep a stepping stool handy for that top shelf.
Store Seasonal Items Up High
You may not be able to reach these tall shelves on the daily, but that's OK. Swap out your closet seasonally — tucking your winter wardrobe up high when spring arrives and vice versa.
Arrange Baskets
Keep bulky sweaters and shoes out in the open, so you can pull outfits together in an instant. Corral the rest of your accessories and off-season wear in designated baskets to give the shelving unit a cleaner look.
Add Smart Lighting
Lighting can work wonders in a compact space. Blogger Lauren placed a battery puck light inside a wall sconce and installed it above her makeshift vanity's mirror. The simple lighting solution is just what she needs to apply makeup without any issues.
Fold Sweaters in Clear Boxes
Blogger Karen decided to keep her sweaters in linen boxes with transparent fronts after noticing moths were damaging her clothes. They're especially great if you're not a fan of mothballs (Karen isn't either), and their drop-front openings make it easy to see pieces without pulling them out every time.
Organize Makeup in Drawers
Use drawer organizers to group makeup products by type. Lipsticks, makeup brushes, foundations and concealers can have their own sections, so everything is easy to find when you create your look for the day.
Consider an Over-the-Door Shoe Organizer
An over-the-door shoe rack is an effortless solution to keep your floor clutter-free, especially if you're not a fan of drilling holes into the walls for storage. Plus, they're typically sturdy enough to hold a decent amount of weight.
Store Belts in Drawers
Let's face it: You're bound to miss a belt or two if you have a grand collection of similar designs. Keep them safely tucked away in drawers so you have a clear view to pick the one you want to wear on any given day.
Put Baskets on the Door
An over-the-door rack makes every square inch count in a small closet. Put everyday items, like muslin cloths and spare onesies, in the baskets for easy access.
Utilize Clothing Racks
A freestanding closet organizer is sleek, stylish and more budget-friendly than built-in systems. Plus, since it's portable, you can easily move it from room to room when necessary.
Alyssa Gautieri (she/her) is the associate lifestyle editor for Good Housekeeping, where she covers all things home and interior design. Prior to joining GH in 2022, she wrote for publications including ELLE Decor, Chairish, BobVila.com, Unique Homes Magazine and LODGING Magazine, in addition to crafting product copy for home brands like BrylaneHome and VIGO Industries.
Mariah Thomas (she/her) is an assistant editor for Good Housekeeping, where she covers home and lifestyle content. Mariah has more than four years of editorial experience, having written for TLC, Apartment Therapy, Women's Health and Avocado Magazine. She received her master's degree in journalism at the Craig Newmark Graduate School of Journalism and published her first book, Heart and Soul: Poems of Thoughts and Emotions, in 2019. She's also the founder of RTF Community, a platform for creatives of color to connect, learn and showcase their work.
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