Closet Organization Tips

Custom closet elements can help to create organization. Scott Gabriel Morris/TNS

By Cathy Hobbs From Tribune News Service

If you haven’t done so already, it might be time to swap out the seasonal wardrobe. Why not reorganize the closet in the meantime?

Where to Begin

Before purchasing, plan. Planning is the first place one should begin when it comes to organization. The philosophy of “everything should have a place and be in place” is a good rule to be your guide.

Design Recipes Shortcut:

1. Purge.
2. Take inventory.
3. Decide.

Before getting started on your closet organization journey, toss what you don’t need. If you haven’t worn something in over a year, it’s time for it to hit the donation or trash pile. Then, take inventory of what you want to keep, retaining those items that are your must-haves. Finish by deciding where you want categories of items to go. The items you use or wear often should be front and center and easily accessible.

What to Buy

Depending on your budget there are a host of options to create organization and order.

Modest Budget

If you are on a modest budget, consider just adding shelving and bars for clothing, as cabinets and drawers are more intricate and costly.

Thin "huggable" hangers helps to keep a closet to feel more open. Handout/TNS

Medium Budget

Many retail stores offer various ready-made, off-the-shelf organization and cabinet options. If possible, meet with an in-house professional so that you can take advantage of their design and measuring services.

Specific shelving is incorporated to allow for increased organization. Scott Gabriel Morris/TNS

Bins and baskets help to conceal smaller closet items. Handout/TNS

Ready to Splurge?

If budget isn’t an overwhelming concern, built-ins are the way to go. Built-ins allow you to truly go custom. The process often involves a custom millworker or cabinetmaker creating “shop” drawings and then building cabinetry to order.

Custom built-ins and shelves helps to allow for a place for both long and short hang items. Handout/TNS

Regardless of your budget, aim to create a closet organization plan that will serve your needs for various seasons and as you grow and build your wardrobe.

Cathy Hobbs, based in New York City, is an Emmy Award-winning television host and a nationally known interior design home staging expert and short-term rental/vacation home designer with offices in New York City and The Hudson Valley. Contact her at [email protected] or visit her website at cathyhobbs.com. Copyright 2023 Tribune Content Agency, LLC.