9 Ideas for Organizing a Utility Closet

Plan From the Bottom Up

Designate a parking spot for the vacuum. Then add a freestanding drawer, which can hold items you need at a moment's notice, like batteries, matches, and a hand-cranked radio.

To buy: Organized Living freedomRail 1 Drawer Double Hang OBox, $126; amazon.com.

Create Eye-Level Access

Keep everyday essentials, like wipes, all-purpose spray, and a whisk broom, within sight and easy reach.

Utilize Overhead Space

Specialty cleaning products, seasonal appliances (like the humidifier), and oddball items (like moving blankets) should be kept up top, with a wall-mounted step ladder nearby.

Use Unique Storage Solutions

The pockets of a canvas shoe organizer are just the right size for spray bottles, cleaning wipes, and small items like grout brushes, which tend to get lost on shelves. Tailor storage to your space and needs.

To buy: 24-Pocket Over-the-Door Shoe Organizer, $18; bedbathandbeyond.com.

Turn a Sweater Organizer Into Shelves

Deep cubbies provide nesting spots for paper towels, recycling bags, and microfiber cleaning cloths.

To buy: Squared Away Arrow Weave 6-Shelf Hanging Organizer, $22; bedbathandbeyond.com.

Get Creative With Shoe Storage

Maintain collections of similar items (lightbulbs, extension cords, rolls of tape) in clear, lightweight containers.

To buy: Medium Clear Shoe Box, $13 each; containerstore.com.

Organize Product Manuals—and Your Mind

Streamline the search for warranties and other paperwork with clear pockets; use tabs to separate appliances and gadgets by room.

Track Important Dates With a Wall Calendar

Let's face it: You won't remember every trash-pickup and donation-collection date. Keep track of them with an adhesive dry-erase calendar.

To buy: UP·DATE! SILICONE MONTHLY PLANNER, $14; shop.threebythree.com.

Keep Phone Numbers Handy

When appliances or fixtures need repair, you'll want backup fast. Next to the calendar, post contact info for household-maintenance pros, like plumbers, electricians, and contractors.