Cleaning & Organizing Organizing Bedroom & Closet Organization

36 Best Closet Storage Ideas for Getting Organized

Front view of an organized closet with the doors open

The Spruce / Meg MacDonald

No matter the size of your closet, there are many ways to maximize your closet storage—you just have to be smart about it. Among the many closet organizers designed to help you create more usable storage space, you can also get creative with bins, hangers, and drawers to make the most of the space. Here are 36 of the best closet storage ideas to help you get organized.

  • 01 of 36

    Use the Vertical Hanging Space

    use of vertical space in a closet

    KhongkitWiriyachan / Getty Images

    Closet organization is all about maximizing space, including vertical hanging space. Most of your clothing won't stretch from floor to ceiling when it's hung, which means you can install rows of clothing rods, one on top of the other, to double your hanging space.

  • 02 of 36

    Store Shoes on the Closet Door

    Shoes on the closet door

    Maria Emberstén / The Waves We Make

    Shoes stored in a pile on the closet floor can be a hassle to sort through, so consider storing your most-used shoes on the inside of your closet door. Achieve this look by installing a simple towel bar on the door and hanging your shoes from hooks that fit over the bar.

    Wardrobe from The Waves We Make

  • 03 of 36

    Hang Accessories and Tank Tops

    Hanging belts from s-hooks on a hanger

    The Spruce / Meg MacDonald

    Small articles of clothing and accessories can be difficult to store in an orderly fashion. Instead of piling them in bins or drawers, consider hanging some of them from a single hanger. Simply attach a set of curtain rings to the hanger and use them for tank tops, scarves, belts, ties, necklaces, and more.

    Clever Tank Top Storage shared by The Storage Geek via Tumblr

  • 04 of 36

    Use Valet Hooks

    Valet hooks in a closet

    Polished Habitat

    Valet hooks can be a game-changer in terms of time management. If you have to be up and ready early in the morning, hang your outfit the night before on a valet hook in your closet. You also can use a valet hook to hang your workout clothes to inspire you to hit the gym or for laundry that's drying.

    DIY Master Closet Before & After from​ Polished Habitat

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  • 05 of 36

    Invest in Quality Hangers

    Closeup of velvet hangers in a closet

    The Spruce / Meg MacDonald

    Suits, blazers, dresses, and shirts each have a different type of hanger that's designated for them, which can become overwhelming and costly. Instead, keep your closet simple with basic wooden hangers. Matching hangers will give your closet a more visually appealing look, which can inspire you to keep it organized.

  • 06 of 36

    Label Your Storage

    Placing hats in labeled bins in the closet

    The Spruce / Meg MacDonald

    A little labeling can make everything in your closet easier to find. It's especially useful for opaque storage bins, as well as bins on a high shelf where you can't easily see what's inside. Use a label maker to get the job done quickly (odds are you'll use it elsewhere in your home after completing this project)!

    How We Organized Our Small Bedroom from Anni via Hometalk

  • 07 of 36

    Add Shelf Dividers

    Closet shelf dividers

    Rue Daily

    Shelf dividers can help to organize limited shelf space. Once you fold a pile of clothing, the dividers will keep everything in place, ensure that the pile doesn't topple over, and keep everything looking neat and tidy. Shelf dividers come in different sizes, so measure your clothes first to get the right dividers for your needs.

    5 Steps to a Streamlined + Stylish Closet from Rue Daily

  • 08 of 36

    Store Items in Small Bins and Baskets

    Bins in the closet

    The View from 5'2"

    Bins and baskets are a great way to keep small articles of clothing and accessories organized by category. You can store items such as belts, hats and gloves, tights, and off-season clothing. When everything has a place, you'll be more likely to return items to their designated spots and keep your whole closet organized.

    Closet Change Up from The View From 5'2"

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  • 09 of 36

    Install a Closet Kit

    empty closet with lots of shelving

    Joe Alfano / Getty Images

    Closet kits are a versatile way to update any closet without the price and hassle of designing and installing a custom closet system. You decide how much hanging space and shelving you need, and all of the rods and shelves can expand to fit your closet. For a larger space, use two or three kits that fit together for a cohesive look.

  • 10 of 36

    Move Off-Season Items to Storage Containers

    Placing off-season items in labeled bins

    The Spruce / Meg MacDonald

    To keep your closet functioning efficiently, move your off-season clothing into storage containers. That way, your closet will have more space for the part of your wardrobe you're wearing regularly, and your off-season clothes will remain organized and protected in the containers.

  • 11 of 36

    Mix and Match Your Shoe Storage

    Closet organization idea with shoe shelf and bins for shoe storage

    @afreshspace / Instagram

    Why stick with a traditional shoe shelf when you can mix and match your storage solutions? This clever closet utilizes a basic shoe shelf for the individual's most frequently used shoes, plus a set of storage bins with vertically arranged shoes for excess storage.

  • 12 of 36

    Purchase a Set of Handbag Hangers

    Hanging handbags on hangers in the closet

    The Spruce / Meg MacDonald

    There are a variety of options for storing your handbags, but you're particular about purses, consider a set of handbag hangers. This investment into your closet organization will protect the straps of your purses and make them easier to grab and go.

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  • 13 of 36

    Sort Shoes in Individual Storage Bins

    Shoe storage solutions for closet organization

    @breathing.room.home / Instagram

    A classic and cohesive way to improve your closet organization is with a set of stylish bins for shoe storage. These gorgeous fabric bins are practical and aesthetically pleasing. They also protect your favorite pumps from dust and debris.

  • 14 of 36

    Color-Coordinate Your Closet Storage

    Using color coding to organizing a closet

    The Spruce / Meg MacDonald

    For closets that are especially prone to clutter, kids' rooms and nurseries in particular, pick a single color for your storage solutions. This will create a cohesive look and feel that can also help motivate you to keep everything in its place.

  • 15 of 36

    Create Custom Closet Storage

    Custom closet storage idea with shelves, drawers, and bins

    @joanna_organize / Instagram

    For the exceptionally stylish reader, a couple of extra bins and wooden hangers may not sufficiently create the closet of your dreams. Instead, take some time to build a custom design for your closet, installing shelves, drawers, and rods to match your unique storage needs.

  • 16 of 36

    Choose Quality Storage for Quality Goods

    Decorative storage boxes for expensive handbags and accessories

    @laura.cattano / Instagram

    If you have a collection of expensive handbags and vintage accessories, make sure your storage solution matches the quality of your items. Skip the grocery store plastic crate and opt for an upscale storage bin. Some possessions deserve a little extra attention and care.

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  • 17 of 36

    Use Dividers for Clutches and Handbags

    Using plastic dividers for handbag storage

    The Spruce / Meg MacDonald

    If the previous suggestions for handbag storage can't keep up with your collection, this tip is for you. Consider using a set of clear shelf dividers for your clutches, pouches, and purses. Step up the organization and coordinate your handbags by color.

  • 18 of 36

    Create Zones for Closet Storage Needs

    Creating designated "zones" for closet storage

    The Spruce / Meg MacDonald

    Another way to elevate your closet organization is by establishing clear zones for your possessions. This particular closet combines many of the previously mentioned ideas to create a complete and cohesive storage system, where everything from tall boots to petite purses have a proper home.

  • 19 of 36

    Install Cubbies for a Clean Look

    Closet with cubbie storage system for sweaters, shoes, handbags, and more

    @nycneat_louisa / Instagram

    When it comes to closet organization, focusing on clean, minimal lines can make a world of difference. The rows of cubbies in this particular closet, for instance, create a simple and tidy look. The addition of fabric bins only adds to the aesthetic.

  • 20 of 36

    Make the Most of Every Inch

    Closet storage system utilizing floor space and backs of closet doors

    @nycneat_louisa / Instagram

    We see a rod in a closet and a pile of hangers and know exactly what to do. But, the reality is there is so much additional space available for use. This closet utilizes all the space underneath hanging clothes for tidy shoe storage and then adds a shoe organizer and hooks on the closet doors for additional storage.

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  • 21 of 36

    Use the Front of Your Closet Door

    Handbag storage for the front of a closet door

    The Spruce / Letícia Almeida

    Speaking of making the most of all of your closet space, why not use the front of your closet door as well as the back? Especially if you have accessories that match your decor style, consider displaying them outside your closet to give yourself a little extra storage space.

  • 22 of 36

    Use Magazine Holders for Closet Storage

    Closet storage hack using magazine holders for clutches

    The Spruce / Letícia Almeida

    Some storage solutions work well in multiple areas of the home, and magazine file holders are among them. This clever hack uses a pair of wooden magazine holders for storing colorful clutches. Set these on a closet shelf or on top of your dresser for pretty and practical storage.

  • 23 of 36

    Opt for Attractive Organizers

    Minimal fabric shoe organizer in closet wardrobe storage

    The Spruce / Michelle Becker

    If you've every spotted a hanging shoe organizer at your local thrift store, you may wonder if these organizers are obsolete. Not only are hanging shoe organizers still very practical, but there are more stylish options available than the crinkly clear plastic pouches you're used to buy.

  • 24 of 36

    Leave Room for Little Ones to Grow

    Closet organization for little girl's room with baskets

    @breathing.room.home / Instagram

    If you're organizing a closet for your little one, be sure to create a storage system that allows for growth. There is plenty of open space in this child's closet, including an upper shelf for items they outgrow and a whole empty rod with more room for new "big kid" clothes.

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  • 25 of 36

    Fold and Display Sweaters on Shelves

    Sweaters folded and stacked on a closet shelf

    The Spruce / Meg MacDonald

    If you've ever seen a trendy, upscale closet with neatly arranged shirts, sweaters, and such, consider applying the same concept to your own closet. However, keep in mind that your items should color-coordinate where possible, and only display solid-colored clothes for a minimal look.

  • 26 of 36

    Use Drawers and Bins for Kid's Closets

    Closet storage organization for a kid's room

    @neatbymeg / Instagram

    Kid's rooms, perhaps more than any other space, are particularly prone to clutter. In preparation for the inevitable messes, choose storage solutions that will conceal the chaos. Baskets, bins, and drawers are all excellent options.

  • 27 of 36

    Avoid Overstocking Open Shelving

    Keeping closet shelves uncluttered

    The Spruce / Meg MacDonald

    Open shelves in a closet can be an eye-catching addition among hangers and rods, but they too can become cramped if you're not careful. Make sure you avoid stacking clothes as high as your shelves will allow. Alternating between clothes and shoes can also help create some visual appeal.

  • 28 of 36

    Arrange Folded Clothes Vertically

    Closet storage organization with drawers with vertically folded clothing

    @nycneat_louisa / Instagram

    If you aren't already storing your folded clothes vertically in drawers, today's the day to start! This is not only an efficient way to arrange your clothes so you can easily find what you're looking for, but it's also so pleasing to the eye!

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  • 29 of 36

    Arrange Accessories with Drawer Dividers

    Using dividers and drawer organizer for small items

    The Spruce / Meg MacDonald

    If you have the space to store your accessories in a shallow drawer, pick up some drawer dividers to keep everything neat. Like the vertically folded clothing idea, this tip will also make accessing what you need quick and easy.

  • 30 of 36

    Label Your Storage Bins and Baskets

    Placing labels on storage baskets

    The Spruce / Meg MacDonald

    Whenever you choose to fill your closet shelves with baskets and bins, make sure you also label each storage container accurately. This will save you and other family members time both when it finding items and when returning them to their proper homes.

  • 31 of 36

    Roll Ties in Closet Drawers

    Closet organization for men's ties

    @nycneat_louisa / Instagram

    Vertical folding is a clever hack for anyone looking to improve their closet organization, but rolled clothing is another attractive alternative. One great item to test this idea on is a collection of ties. Be sure to pair this one with some slender drawer dividers.

  • 32 of 36

    Add a Dresser to Your Closet

    Closet organization ideas for little kid's closet

    @nycneat_louisa / Instagram

    Not every closet is a fancy walk-in with stunning shelves and dresser drawers of varying depths. However, if you're a little envious of those closets, simply add a tall dresser to your own closet and use tension rods between the new addition and the wall.

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  • 33 of 36

    Alternate Shoe Direction to Save Space

    Alternating shoe direction to save space

    The Spruce / Meg MacDonald

    When your shoe collection is quickly consuming your available storage space, there's an easy way to add a little extra room. Simply alternate the direction your shoes face, and you'll create space for more.

  • 34 of 36

    Hang a Mirror to Dress Up Your Closet

    Closet organization with a mirror

    Laura Cattano Organizational Design

    For those lucky enough to have a walk-in closet, this tip is for you. Hang a mirror—a glitzy one if you feel like it. Not only will this serve a practical purpose, but it'll create the illusion of additional space.

  • 35 of 36

    Hang Hats on the Wall

    Closet organization with hats hanging on the wall

    @afreshspace / Instagram

    For the hat lovers out there, consider this hot organization tip. Instead of stacking your fedoras in a bin or tossing your caps in a drawer, try displaying them on the wall. It'll add a little visual interest and will make it easy to accessorize your outfit.

  • 36 of 36

    Keep Shirts Up Top and Shorts Below

    Closet organization with shirts, shoes, purses, and more

    @afreshspace / Instagram

    To make the most of your closet space, add a tension rod below your traditional, eye-level rack. Sort your shirts, sweaters, and such on the upper, established rod, then arrange shorts and pants on the bar below.

FAQ
  • Do closet organizers really work?

    Organizing your closet with shelving, storage bins, shoe racks, and other organizing tools can maximize the use of the space that you have.

  • How often should you go through your clothes closet?

    Try to go through your clothes closet twice a year and purge clothing, accessories, and shoes that you don't wear any more. This gives you a chance to reorganize and straighten your closet back up, too.

  • How do you know which clothes need to go from your closet?

    Any clothing that doesn't fit, you haven't worn for a while, is out of style, is uncomfortable, or you don't like it and wonder why you even bought it needs to go in the donate pile. If it has stains, holes, or pilling, those clothes need to go in the trash or be recycled at a location that accepts clothes (not in your own home recycling bin).

  • What should you do with clothing you don't want anymore?

    If the clothing is gently used and in good shape, donate it to charity organizations, churches, shelters for unhoused people, or you can place it with consignment shops to sell.