Small Closet Storage

Get started by surveying what you have to work with:

1. Think like a department store and inventory your clothes by type. Have a good sense of how many pants, skirts and shirts you need to hang; how many shirts, sweaters and jeans you need to fold and stack; and how many accessories you need to keep close at hand.
2. Take your closet's measurements and record them on an index card. Keep the index card in your wallet so you have this information both at home or on the road.
3. Search your home for storage solutuons you can re-purpose like cubbies, bookcases, shoe racks and shelving. Will any of these work in your space?

It's vital to have a plan before you begin buying stuff. 

It might make sense to move the shoes you don't wear too often outside of your closet and utilize the floor for a combination of off-season storage, accessories and shoes. The best storage option is a low-lying cubby.

Make sure you use one that really fits the space so you can maximize every inch of the floor. Follow my guide to the best cubbies for one that fits into your budget and decor scheme: Guide to Cubbies

Nothing will transform your closet as quickly and dramatically as a double hang. More hanging space is much more efficient than shelving space, so if you have to choose between the two, choose hanging. Keep in mind this may mean you have to hang things you would normally fold and stack.

• Double Hangs
• Hooks & Hangers

There’s really no point in storing things higher up a wall or closer to the ceiling unless you can reach that high. If you’re not 6-feet-plus, a good step stool will help you reach the top of your bedroom closet, and can also be used in the kitchen, attic and garage. Choosing one that compliments your decor and fits your space is a snap with this step stool guide. I’ve featured basic, budget-friendly options and some additional luxury options.

Step Stools

Hangers aren’t just for suit jackets anymore. You can now hang all manner of accessories and even boots:

• Blankets
• Boots
• Coats
• Dress shirts
• Handbags
• Pants
• Suits
• Scarves
• Ties

Use your hangers to hold clothes of the same type (examples: scarves together, pants together, ties together) so when you pull a hanger out of the closet you know exactly what you’re getting.

My small closet recommendation are Huggable or Slimline Hanger. These are less-bulky and about 1 inch thinner than a traditional wood hanger. You may not think this is worth the 1-inch, but think about 1-inch multiplied by a 30 inch-wide closet. It adds up.

Hooks & Hangers

Closet door shoe racks are the best option here, as they aren't just for shoes anymore; they’re a super functional way to store all sorts of clothing items and accessories.

• Belts
• Gloves
• Handbags
• Hats
• Jewelry
• Scarves
• Socks
• Undergarments

Use your closet door for the things you wear and grab the most often. Example: If you’re a scarf-wearer, tuck your most-worn scarves at eye level in the shoe rack pockets. In the summer, swap out scarves, gloves and tights for tank tops.

Closet Door Shoe Racks