How To Plan An Organized Closet Makeover

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Planning an organized closet makeover can be a daunting task, but with the right approach, it can be both efficient and rewarding. A well-organized closet not only enhances the aesthetic appeal of your home but also provides a functional space that makes your daily routine easier. In this article, we will guide you through the steps to plan and execute a successful closet makeover, ensuring that your new space is both organized and tailored to your needs.

Step 1: Evaluate the Space

Before you begin any makeover project, it's crucial to evaluate the space you are working with. This involves understanding how your closet is currently being used and identifying the problems that need to be addressed.

Assessing Usage

Start by observing how you use your closet. Consider the types of items you store there, such as clothing, accessories, shoes, and storage supplies. Think about the frequency with which you access these items and whether they are easily accessible.

Identifying Problems

Next, identify the problems with your current closet setup. Common issues include:

• Limited Storage: If your closet has limited storage options, it can lead to clutter and disorganization.
• Cluttered Floor: Stacked items on the floor can make it difficult to move around and find what you need.
• Disorganized Shelves: Shelves that are not organized can lead to items getting lost or damaged.
• Inefficient Use of Space: If the space is not utilized efficiently, it can result in wasted potential.

Step 2: Planning the Space & Setting a Goal

Once you have evaluated the space and identified the problems, it's time to plan how you want to use the space. This involves setting clear goals for what you want to achieve with your closet makeover.

Setting Clear Goals

Your goal should be to create a space that is both functional and aesthetically pleasing. Consider what you want to achieve:

• Clutter-Free Space: Aim for a clutter-free environment where everything has its designated place.
• Efficient Storage: Ensure that you have enough storage options to keep all your belongings organized.
• Easy Access: Make sure that frequently used items are easily accessible.

Categorizing Items

To plan effectively, categorize the items you store in your closet. Common categories include:

• Clothing: This includes tops, bottoms, dresses, outerwear, and undergarments.
• Accessories: This includes jewelry, hats, scarves, belts, and bags.
• Shoes: This includes all types of footwear.
• Storage Supplies: This includes bins, baskets, and other storage containers.

Step 3: Choosing a Storage System

Choosing the right storage system is crucial for an effective closet makeover. You need to select solutions that fit your budget and meet your specific needs.

Budget-Friendly Options

While custom-built closet systems can be expensive and time-consuming, there are many budget-friendly options available:

• Wire Shelving Units: These are versatile and can be easily installed in most closets. They provide ample space for storing items like bins, baskets, and boxes.
• Adjustable Shelves: These allow you to customize the height of your shelves according to the items you need to store.
• Drawer Organizers: These can be added to existing drawers or used as standalone units for storing smaller items like socks or accessories.

Custom Solutions

If budget allows, custom solutions can be highly effective:

• Built-In Shelves: These can be designed to fit perfectly into your closet space, providing ample storage without taking up too much floor space.
• Drawer Systems: These include multiple drawers that can be customized to fit different types of items.

Step 4: Decluttering and Donating

Decluttering is an essential step in any closet makeover. It involves getting rid of items that are no longer needed or useful.

Sorting Items

Start by sorting items into three piles:

1. Keep: Items that are still useful and bring joy or serve a purpose.
2. Donate/Sell: Items that are still in good condition but no longer needed by you.
3. Discard: Items that are damaged beyond repair or no longer serve any purpose.

The KonMari Method

Consider using the KonMari Method for decluttering:

1. Hold Each Item: Hold each item and ask yourself if it sparks joy.
2. Keep Only What Sparks Joy: If it does, keep it; if not, consider letting it go.

Creating a Capsule Wardrobe

If you find it difficult to decide what to keep and what to discard, consider creating a capsule wardrobe:

1. Curated Collection: Select a curated collection of coordinating pieces that make getting dressed easier.
2. Edit Down: Edit down your belongings to only what is essential and brings joy.

Step 5: Setting Up the System

Once you have decluttered and chosen your storage solutions, it's time to set up the system.

Emptying the Closet

Start by emptying everything from the floor of the closet, grouping similar items together:

1. Vacuum the Floor: Vacuum the floor thoroughly before starting any organization process.
2. Group Similar Items: Group similar items like clothing, accessories, shoes, etc., together.

Assembling Storage Units

Assemble your chosen storage units according to their instructions:

1. Measure Each Shelf: Measure each shelf carefully before placing items on them.
2. Place Heavier Items First: Place heavier items like sewing machines or photo boxes on lower shelves for stability.

Organizing Categories

Organize each category within its designated space:

1. Clothing: Organize clothing by type (e.g., tops, bottoms), then by color within each type.
2. Accessories: Organize accessories like jewelry or hats in designated containers or on hooks.
3. Shoes: Organize shoes by type (e.g., heels, flats) and color within each type.

Step 6: Maintaining Your Closet

Maintaining your newly organized closet is crucial for keeping it clutter-free over time.

Regular Tidying

Set aside time each month for quick tidying sessions:

1. Put Away Items: Put away items that are out of place.
2. Check for Clutter: Check for any signs of clutter or disorganization.

Revisiting Your System

Revisit your system periodically (at least twice a year) to ensure it remains effective:

1. Assess Your Needs: Assess whether your current system meets your evolving needs.
2. Make Adjustments: Make adjustments as necessary to keep your space organized and functional.

Additional Tips for Closet Organization

Organizing by Color

Organizing by color can make finding items easier:

1. Group Similar Hues Together: Group similar hues together within each category.
2. Face All Items in Same Direction: Face all items in the same direction to create a streamlined look.

Using Vertical Space

Make use of vertical space by installing shelves or hooks:

1. Maximize Height: Maximize height by using shelves or hooks that go up to the ceiling.
2. Utilize Wall Space: Utilize wall space for hanging items like jackets or bags.

Labeling Everything

Labeling everything helps in quick location of items:

1. Label Drawers & Containers: Label drawers and containers so you can easily locate what you need.
2. Use Clear Labels: Use clear labels so they are easy to read from a distance.

By following these steps and tips, you can create an organized closet makeover that enhances both functionality and aesthetics of your home. Remember to stay consistent with regular tidying sessions and periodic assessments to maintain your newly organized space over time.