9 Closet Hacks to Organize Your Space

Jodi Helmer,

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Before you cram another item into your overstuffed closet, consider this: A survey conducted by a closet-organizing company found that 1 in 4 women thought their closets were disorganized

and almost half admitted they could not find items in their closet at least once a month.

“The closet is the first and last place you go in your day,” says Shaniece Jones, founder and chief organizing officer at One Woman Army Management. “When you open your closet and can’t find

things, not only are you wasting time, but there is a sensor going off in your brain that says Chaos.”

Whether you have a tiny closet or a spacious walk-in, these nine hacks will help you create more room; bring order to your clothes, shoes and accessories; and (finally) get your closet

clutter under control.

Before you buy a single basket, drawer divider or shoe rack, take the time to complete a thorough closet edit.

“Editing your belongings before organizing is crucial,” says Jamie Hord, cofounder of Horderly Professional Organizing.

You may be surprised to find a long-forgotten sweater, dress or pair of shoes. You’ll probably also find unworn items with the tags still attached and pieces that haven’t fit — or been

fashionable — since Friends was airing new episodes.

Toss articles that are stained, ill-fitting or outdated. Your reorganized closet should be filled with garments and accessories you wear and love.

Joan Crawford isn’t the only one for banishing wire hangers. Jones isn’t a fan, either. She advises replacing both wire and plastic hangers. “Velvet hangers are the number one choice,” she

insists. Thanks to their slimmer profile, the velvet kind saves a lot of space, and the fabric helps keep clothes where they belong, so no more finding your favorite silk shirt in a puddle

on the floor. Note, however, that velvet hangers are too slight for bulkier items like blazers. Jones suggests using wooden ones for heavier clothing.