Spring Cleaning and Organizing Solutions for your Closets!
10 Apr 2018
Spring Cleaning and Organizing Solutions for your Closets!
Spring is finally here which means it’s time to clean out all of those bulky coats, sweaters, hats, scarves and boots. Trust us, your closets will appreciate it! Winter wear and gear takes up so much more space. It’s time to free up some space and let your closets breathe again!
As our Professional Organizer’s always say…declutter first. As you put away your winter gear, don’t assume that just because you stored it means you’re going to use it again next season. Maybe your job or lifestyle has changed; maybe your weight or style have changed. Or maybe you put away something you really had no intention of wearing again – it happens. Take the time to do a quick review before each item earns a place in your off-season storage area. Reviewing items for next season also gives you the chance to consign or donate items that are in great condition, but aren’t right for you.
Organize your Spring items before putting them into the closet and create a plan for the space. Do you need hanging space? Could you use shelving or storage for small items? Do you need a place for shoes? Assess the space and get what you need to organize it before you start putting things away. Be sure to measure the space as well to make sure you get the right size solutions.
Depending on the size of your bedroom or hallway closet, you can really get creative with all of the containers and options out there. Let’s start with the basics. Here are five of the most functional (and versatile) organizing solutions for your closets.
1) Drawers
Freestanding drawer systems make great storage solutions for loose items, such as light scarves and hats. If you have a large enough closet, have a drawer for each member of the family. If not, you can use drawer organizers or dividers to give everyone their own space. If you don’t want to go out and buy something new, consider repurposing and old dresser. Children’s dressers work great in these typically smaller spaces.
2) Cubbies
If you prefer open space to closed drawers, cubbies are a great option. They come in a variety of sizes, so chances are you can find some that will fit your space and your stuff. Put them on the floor, or up on a shelf to get more out of the vertical space in your closet. As with the drawers, try to assign one or more per family member. You can use baskets or bins within the cubby to corral loose items. Label them for easier identification.
3) Hooks
We have a motto: “A hook for the back of every door.” Hooks are a great solution for hanging bags, purses, umbrellas, backpacks, jackets, dog leashes; really just about everything. Fill the back of your closet door with hook (unless you have a hanging organizer there – see below). You might also have room to hang hooks on a wall in the closet. If you have an odd-shaped closet, hooks can be the perfect solution for otherwise dead space. Even if you only have a few inches of wall space, a hook will fit there.
4) Hanging Organizers
Hanging organizers are great for small items such as accessories. Pocket organizers are perfect for child-size items. You can also use an over-the door shelving unit or utility rack for storage of larger items, such as bags. Hang one over the door, or mount one on a wall. If you need a little more space, hang one on the front of the door, or on a wall next to the closet.
5) Shoe Racks
Line them along the floor, stack them, or put them up on a shelf. Shoe racks or shoe cubbies will give you a lot more space than just lining your shoes up on the floor. To keep mud and dirt at bay, set up a boot tray or shelf liner underneath the shoe racks.
If you are tight on hall closet space, then think outside the closet. Look at other areas where you can create storage solutions. Hang hooks along a wall by the door for coats and bags and stack shoe racks underneath. Place a dresser or cubbies in your entryway for accessories. Buy a storage bench with baskets underneath. You can also make the most of a dead-end hallway by creating storage space there.
With these solutions and a little organizing work, you’ll be able to easily grab your Spring essentials and enjoy the season!
Need a little help getting started? Contact Organizing Boston today at 617-893-9242 to book your first session!
