Closet space is often expensive, especially in homes with small closets or limited storage options. Whether dealing with a tiny closet in your bedroom, a cramped hall closet, or even a walk-in closet, making the most of every inch is crucial to maintaining an organised and clutter-free environment.
Fortunately, smart storage hacks can help you maximise closet space and transform it into an efficient storage area for your everyday clothing, shoes, and accessories.
In this article, we’ll cover the 10 best ways to maximise closet space with smart storage hacks, giving you practical tips and closet organisation ideas to save space and create more storage.
Let's get straight to the point
To maximise closet space and maintain an organised, clutter-free environment, start by decluttering and assessing current use. Then, make the most of vertical space by adding shelves and using hanging rods at varying heights.
Slim hangers and double rods maximise hanging capacity, while storage bins, stackable bins, and drawer organisers keep smaller items tidy. For shoes and accessories, use closet door organisers and modular organisers for flexibility.
For shelf space, create sections with dividers, and add a storage bench for extra floor storage. Optimise wall space with hooks, and separate seasonal items to free up room. These simple, smart storage hacks make every inch count in any closet size.
Optimise Closet Space
The first step in maximising your closet space is to assess how you are currently using it. Often, wasted space can be found in the corners, above shelves, or behind closet doors. Here’s how you can optimise your existing closet space:
Start by Decluttering
Before exploring smart storage solutions, it’s essential to start with a clean slate. Decluttering your closet is the first and most important step in optimizing your closet space. Go through your clothes, shoes, and accessories and get rid of anything you no longer wear or need.
This will free up more storage space and make it easier to identify where you can add extra storage solutions.
Use Storage Bins and Storage Boxes
For smaller items such as scarves, belts, or shoes, consider using storage bins or boxes. These help keep everything neat and organised, freeing up precious closet storage space. Label your bins for easier access and stack them on shelves or in drawer space to avoid clutter.
Utilise Vertical Space
Vertical space is often underutilised in small closets. Maximising the height of your closet is one of the most effective ways to increase storage capacity.
Install Wall Shelves
Adding corner or extra shelves on your closet walls can significantly increase your storage capacity. These shelves are perfect for storing folded clothing, shoes, or storage bins. Recessed lighting can also be added to make the shelves more accessible, especially in deeper closet sections.
Use Hanging Rods and Hanging Organisers
Vertical hanging rods can be installed at varying heights to allow clothes to hang while also allowing hanging organisers beneath. Hanging rods can be used to store seasonal clothes or items you don’t use daily.
You can optimise your hanging space using cascading hangers and create more room for everyday clothing.
Maximise Hanging Space
Maximising hanging space is key for those who need to store clothing that should not be folded. Whether you store long dresses, coats, or shirts, there are several ways to use hanging space effectively.
Invest in Slim Hangers
Switch to slim, non-slip hangers that will allow you to hang more clothing items in the same space. This is an easy way to save space and create more room for hanging clothes in your closet. Opt for uniform hangers to help keep your closet feeling tidy and organised.
Use Double or Extra Hanging Rods
For closets with limited rod space, installing a second hanging rod beneath the first can efficiently store shorter items, like shirts and blouses. This gives you double the hanging space without needing more closet real estate.
Smart Storage Solutions
Smart storage solutions are essential for truly maximising closet space. Here are some ideas to help you make the most of every available inch in your closet.
Add a Closet Door Organiser
The inside of your closet door can be a great place to store accessories, shoes, or even cleaning supplies. Use over-the-door organisers with pockets to store smaller items like shoes and bags, making them easily accessible.
This is an effective way to use the often overlooked closet door for additional storage.
Invest in Drawer Organisers for Small Accessories
Organising small items such as jewellery, scarves, or belts can be challenging without the right storage solutions. Invest in drawer organisers that allow you to compartmentalise your accessories.
This keeps everything in its place, reduces clutter, and allows you to easily access items when needed.
Shelf Space Optimization
Shelf space is another area where you can gain extra storage. Regarding shelf space optimisation, a little creativity can go a long way.
Use Stackable Bins
Stackable bins are excellent for storing items like shoes, seasonal clothes, or accessories. They allow you to stack and organise your belongings neatly and easily. Labelling each storage bin lets you quickly identify what’s inside, saving you time when searching for specific items.
Create Separate Sections
When using shelves, it's a good idea to create separate sections for different clothing or accessories. You could use dividers, baskets, or storage boxes to keep things organised and easily accessible.
DIY Closet Organization Ideas
Sometimes, a little DIY closet organisation can work wonders for creating more storage space. If you’re dealing with a small closet or tiny closet, here are some simple and cost-effective ideas:
Install a Closet Rod with Multiple Functions
Consider installing a closet rod that serves multiple functions, such as a pull-out or retractable rod. This allows you to maximise your rod space when needed while creating more floor space when not in use.
Build a Custom Closet System
Consider building a custom closet system that fits your specific needs for a more permanent solution. Whether adding extra shelves, shoe storage, or a second hanging rod, a custom closet can be tailored to fit your space and storage requirements.
Closet Organization Systems
A well-planned closet organisation system can be the key to making your closet more functional. Organising your closet is essential whether you have a walk-in closet or a smaller space.
Use Modular Organisers
Modular organisers are flexible, adjustable storage solutions that can be configured to fit your specific closet layout. These systems allow you to create multiple functions within your closet, such as dedicated spaces for storing shoes, folded clothing, and accessories.
Maximising closet space with modular organisers is ideal for large and small closets.
Maximise Floor Space with a Storage Bench
Adding a storage bench at the base of your closet can help you store items like shoes and bags while also providing a place to sit when getting dressed. This solution works particularly well for hall closets or laundry room areas.
Final Tips
Maximising closet space is all about being strategic with your storage and making the most of what you already have. Here are a few final tips to help you create a clutter-free closet and save space:
Make Use of Wall Space
Remember the walls of your closet. Install wall hooks or racks to store items like bags, hats, or belts. This will free up valuable shelf and drawer space for other essentials.
Keep Seasonal Clothes Separate
Consider moving seasonal clothes into storage bins or a separate section of your closet to make room for everyday clothing. You can store these items in storage boxes or under-bed storage to save space during the off-season.
Think Outside the Closet
If your closet is too small to fit everything, consider adding shelves or a shoe rack in a nearby area of your bedroom or hallway. This extra storage will help keep your closet uncluttered while giving you more storage space.
Implementing these ten smart storage hacks to maximise closet space can transform your closet into a highly functional storage area, regardless of size. Whether you make better use of vertical space, install a second closet rod, or invest in storage bins, every change will help you create an organised and efficient closet.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Are the Best Ways to Create More Storage Space in a Small Closet?
To create more storage space in a small closet, use vertical space with extra shelves or hanging organisers. Add a second hanging rod for shorter items like shirts and blouses, and use stackable storage bins for shoes and accessories. Using slim hangers and drawer organisers also helps maximise space.
How Can I Use Vertical Space Effectively to Maximise My Closet Storage?
Adding shelves above the hanging rod and near the closet's ceiling is a great way to use vertical space. Wall-mounted hooks or organisers can hold small items, and hanging organisers can free up floor space. Use stackable bins or baskets on these shelves to keep items organised and accessible.
What Types of Smart Storage Solutions Are Ideal for Keeping Closets Organised?
Modular organisers are flexible and can be reconfigured to fit your changing needs. Hanging shoe organisers keep shoes off the floor, while drawer organisers help separate items like accessories or folded clothes. Door-mounted racks and hooks add extra storage for items like belts, scarves, or jewellery.
How Can I Keep a Closet Clutter-Free and Maximise Space at the Same Time?
Regularly rotating seasonal clothes and removing items you no longer wear are key to a clutter-free closet. Designate specific storage areas for each type of clothing or accessory, and use bins or baskets for small items. Consider cascading hangers to stack items vertically, creating easy access while saving space.
Are There Any DIY Closet Organisation Ideas That Can Help Save Space?
Yes. DIY ideas like adding corner shelves for unused corners, installing a pegboard for small items, or using a curtain rod as a hanging rod for scarves can add more functionality to your closet. You can also create your drawer dividers or install simple hooks to hang purses and hats, making every inch count.
