How to Get the Most Out of a Small Closet
Updated: Mar. 10, 2022It's time to get creative with your small closet.
Closet Nook Shelves
There’s more space than meets the eye when it comes to your small closet. To really utilize space, and therefore make room for more things, you can take advantage of the hidden areas at the recessed ends of your closet. All you need to do is add a set of wire shelves. Check out these closet storage ideas , which show you how to install the wire shelves yourself.
Shoe Storage Booster Stool
Shoes can take up a lot of space, and it’s not to easy to keep them tidy. But, you can build this shoe storage solution in just an hour. It doubles as a stool to reach the high shelf too! Check out this list of Saturday morning projects that will show you how to build this easy storage option.
Two-Story Closet Shelves
Just because your closet doesn’t have a lot of width or depth doesn’t mean there isn’t room above the shelf. You can make use of this space by adding a second shelf above the first one. Since it’s not the easiest to access, use the space for seldom used items. Here are some useful closet storage hacks, including instructions for how to make these two-story closet shelves.
Double-Decker Closet Rod
Another great way to get the most out of a small closet to gain extra space is utilizing two metal closet brackets and a length of closet rod. You’ll just want to make sure your existing closet rod is at least 66 inches from the floor in order to ensure you have enough space for a second rod to hang clothes. Check out these 30 closet designs made to clear the clutter, including instructions for how to install a double-decker closet rod.
Add-On Clothes Rod
If you have clothes that don’t require a tall space, hang a second clothes rod from the upper rod using a lightweight chain. You simply need to attach the chain to screw eyes, or use S-hooks. You can use carabiners too, which make it extra easy to adjust the height of the rod. Check out these 11 clothing storage ideas for more small closet organization tips.
Closet Door Storage
Don’t forget about the door! For small closets, the door can make a big difference. You can hang a shoe rack over the door to free up floor space in your closet. If you opt for an organizer with clear pockets, you can store scarves, ties and other small accessories along with your shoes. For more organization in your mud room, you can build these super simple wall-mounted shoe organizers.
Buy this organizer on Amazon now.
Photo: Courtesy of Simple Houseware/Amazon
Build Your Own Melamine Closet Organizer
Your small closet may not offer a lot of square footage, but the more organized you are, the more things you can store. Building your own melamine closet organizer allows you to have an intricate system for storing your clothing, shoes and accessories. You’ll be able to see everything you need, and keep things separate. Here’s how to build your own.
Take the Door Off
If you’re not interested in using the back of your door for storage, then get it out of the way! Taking it off will give you a few extra inches to work with. It can also make reaching in to grab things a whole lot easier. Use your closet doors to make this privacy screen!
Photo: Courtesy of IKEA
Soda Can Tab Hooks
A clever way to repurpose! Use those empty soda can tabs to help your cramped closet by looping them on hangers. This allows you to slip an additional hanger through the tab’s hole so you can double the number of garments you can hang! Here are more closet hacks made to help clear the clutter.
Photo: Courtesy of Purewow
Hanger Chain
For those bulky bags that take up too much room in your small closet, try a hanger chain. You can make a bag hanger chain for your closet using a sturdy plastic hanger or large S-hook from which you hang plastic or metal links. Ready to extend your closet? Here’s how to build a wall-to-wall masterpiece.
Create a Sliding Storage System On the Ceiling
You might not have a ton of ceiling space, but you can certainly utilize what’s there! Find appropriately sized storage baskets to turn this DIY project originally meant for the garage into something perfect for freeing up space in your small closet. Here’s what you need to know about the project.
Shower Ring Hooks
If you want fewer hangers but more clothing hung up, simply clip plastic shower rings on a hanger. Now you can hang multiple articles of clothing, like these tank tops, that drape downward instead of taking up space on the closet rod.
Check out these 18 inspiring inside-cabinet door storage ideas.
Photo: Courtesy of The Budget Makeover
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