A cluttered closet can slow down your morning routine and cause you to lose track of clothes. With a few simple tools and some creativity, you can create a custom closet system that maximizes space and keeps your belongings organized. Below, we explore some effective and budget-friendly do-it-yourself (DIY) closet organization solutions. In the video above, This Old House contractor Tom Silva and host Kevin O’Connor demonstrate several of these easy-to-install options for creating additional storage.
Assessing Your Closet Needs
Before buying anything or starting any projects, evaluate your current closet situation to see which type of solutions you need. Take inventory of your belongings, identify items you use frequently versus those that are more seasonal, and determine what needs to be readily accessible.
While you’re at it, separate out things that you’d prefer to donate or store elsewhere so you don’t continue taking up closet space for what doesn’t need to be there.
Then, measure your closet’s dimensions. You’ll need these when you buy and install organizers. You may want to also sketch a rough idea of what you’d like your closet to look like and how you’d like things to be grouped.
DIY Closet Organization Solutions
With an idea of what you want in mind, there are numerous ways to organize your closet without breaking the bank. From shelf racks to wire shelving, these solutions are designed to easily improve your closet’s functionality.
Shelf Racks and Standards
One of the most versatile and affordable options for closet organization is using shelf racks and standards. These systems allow for easy adjustability and can be customized to fit your needs. They’re perfect for creating layered storage, helping you store items of different shapes and sizes.
To install shelf racks, you just need to locate the wall studs in your closet using a stud finder. You’ll mount the shelf standards to the studs using screws, then insert shelf brackets into the standards at desired heights and place shelves on the brackets.
Silva demonstrates how these standards can be mounted directly to the wall or used with special brackets that allow for horizontal adjustability.
Wire Shelving Systems
Wire shelving is another popular option for DIY closet organization. These systems are lightweight, easy to clean, and provide ventilation for your clothes, which can help reduce musty smells.
To install wire shelving, measure and mark your desired shelf height, then install mounting brackets into wall studs. Cut wire shelving to the appropriate length if necessary, and attach the wire shelving to the mounting brackets.
Wire shelving systems often come with additional accessories such as hanging rods and baskets, providing even more storage options. These added compartments can help you keep small items organized.
Custom Wood Shelving
If you want a more traditional look, you can create custom wood shelving for your closet. While this option requires more work, it allows for complete customization. Custom wood shelving looks professional but may cost slightly more and is permanent as opposed to the adjustable options above.
To create custom wood shelving, you’ll measure your closet and plan your shelf layout. You’ll need to cut wooden boards to size and sand and finish the boards as desired. Then, install cleats or brackets to support the shelves and secure the shelves to the supports.
Custom wood shelving can include drawers, compartments, or personalized decorative elements.
Baskets and Bins
Baskets and bins are versatile storage solutions that can be used on shelves or the floor. They’re great for storing small items such as socks and underwear, organizing scarves and belts, and keeping seasonal items together. They can be as plain or as decorative as you prefer.
Drawer Organizers
If your closet includes drawers, organizers can help keep the contents tidy. Use small boxes or dividers for jewelry and small accessories. Opt for expandable drawer organizers for larger items. Vacuum-sealed bags are helpful for bulky items such as sweaters.
Hangers
The right hangers can make a big difference in your closet’s capacity. Use slim, nonslip hangers to maximize rod space. Go with cascading hangers for pants or skirts. Use hanging organizers for shoes, sweaters, or accessories. Specialized hangers and organizers can also prevent your clothes from becoming wrinkled or misshapen.
Shelf Dividers
Shelf dividers are another budget-friendly accessory that can help keep items neatly stacked and prevent them from toppling over. These can be particularly useful for sweaters, towels, or bags, providing an organized and visually appealing setup.
Maximizing Vertical Space
One of the keys to effective closet organization is making use of all available space, especially vertical space that often goes unused. Using vertical space well can significantly increase your storage capacity without the need for more square footage. Below are some ideas.
Over-the-Door Storage
Using the back of your closet door can provide additional storage without taking up valuable floor or wall space. Options include over-the-door shoe organizers, hanging pocket organizers, and hook systems for bags or accessories. These options make it easy to store items that you need access to on a daily basis without cluttering your main closet area.
Floor-to-Ceiling Solutions
Don’t let the space near the ceiling go to waste. We suggest adding high shelves for seasonal or rarely used items that you can store in tubs or boxes. You can also use tall, narrow shelving units to maximize corner spaces. These solutions help you keep seldom-used items out of the way but still easily accessible when needed.
Pegboards for Accessories
Another way to maximize vertical space is by installing pegboards. Pegboards can be mounted on closet walls to hang a variety of accessories. Hooks, baskets, and shelves can be attached to pegboards, making it a versatile option for items such as jewelry, ties, and belts.
