If you’re anything like me, you’ve spent hours organizing your closet only to find it in disarray a few weeks (or even days) later. A well-organized closet is not just about aesthetics—it can save you time getting ready in the morning, help you keep track of your belongings, and even reduce stress. However, achieving and maintaining a neat and tidy closet is easier said than done. After many failed attempts, I’ve finally identified the 14 mistakes I was making when organizing my closet and I want to share them with you, along with my newfound solutions.
1. Not Having a Clear Plan
In my early organizing days, I used to dive right in, pulling everything out of my closet and then feeling overwhelmed with the mess I created. I realized that without a clear plan, organizing can quickly turn into a frustrating and unproductive task.
Now, I start by visualizing how I want my closet to look and function. I consider what I need most frequently and what can be stored away. I also set realistic goals about how much time I can devote to the project. Having a tangible plan not only makes the task less daunting, but it also helps me stay focused and motivated to complete it.
2. Buying Storage Solutions First
I used to rush to the store to buy all sorts of bins, boxes, and hangers, thinking that they would magically solve my closet chaos. However, I often ended up with storage solutions that didn’t fit my space or needs.
Now, I first take inventory of what I have and then decide what kind of storage I need. I measure my closet space to ensure that whatever I buy fits perfectly. Buying storage solutions is not the first step to an organized closet—it’s a way to enhance an organization system that already works.
3. Not Decluttering Regularly
I used to declutter my closet once in a blue moon, and unsurprisingly, it would quickly become cluttered again. Holding on to items I no longer needed or used was not only taking up valuable space but also making it harder for me to find what I actually needed.
Now, I make it a habit to declutter my closet every season. I follow the one in, one out rule—if I buy something new, something old has to go. Regularly decluttering keeps my closet from overflowing and helps me stay aware of what I own.
4. Ignoring Vertical Space
In the past, I used to focus only on the hanging rod and shelves in my closet, completely ignoring the potential of vertical space. This led to a lack of space and a cluttered closet floor.
Now, I take full advantage of vertical space by adding extra shelves, using stackable bins, and hanging hooks on the closet doors. Utilizing vertical space not only provides extra storage but also keeps items off the floor, making the closet look neater.
5. Keeping Out-of-Season Clothes Front and Center
I used to keep all my clothes—irrespective of the season—in the same area. This not only made my closet look stuffed but also made it harder to find what I needed.
Now, I rotate my clothes seasonally. I store out-of-season clothes in vacuum-sealed bags at the top of my closet or under the bed. This makes my closet less crowded and helps me easily find what I need.
6. Not Categorizing Items
In my less organized days, I used to put items wherever there was space. As a result, I would often waste time searching for items and sometimes even forget what I owned.
Now, I categorize my clothes by type (pants, tops, dresses) and then by color. I also group similar items, like scarves and belts, together. Categorizing items not only makes my closet look neat but also makes it easier for me to find what I’m looking for.
7. Not Making Use of Closet Doors
I used to treat my closet doors just as doors, completely ignoring their potential as an extra storage space.
Now, I make use of the inside of my closet doors by hanging hooks or over-the-door organizers. This is a great place to store accessories, shoes, or even laundry bags. Making use of closet doors is a clever way to maximize space, especially in small closets.
8. Keeping Everything at Eye Level
I used to keep everything at eye level for easy access, but this led to a cluttered and disorganized look.
Now, I store less frequently used items, like formal wear or heavy winter coats, at the top or bottom of my closet. This opens up the middle section for the items I use daily, making my closet more efficient and easier to navigate.
9. Ignoring the Importance of Good Lighting
I never considered lighting as a factor in closet organization, but a poorly lit closet made it difficult to find items and colors.
Now, I’ve installed good lighting in my closet. This not only helps me find items easily but also makes the space feel more inviting. If installing a light fixture is not an option, battery-operated stick-on lights are a great alternative.
10. Not Using Matching Hangers
I used to use a hodgepodge of hangers—wire, plastic, wood—which not only looked messy but also took up unnecessary space.
Now, I use uniform, slim hangers. They not only give my closet a neat and streamlined look but also save space. Velvet hangers are my favorite as they prevent clothes from slipping off.
11. Not Folding Clothes Properly
I used to fold my clothes in a way that took up too much space and made it difficult to see what I had.
Now, I use the KonMari method of folding clothes—it saves space and allows me to see all my clothes at a glance. It takes a bit of practice, but the result is worth it.
12. Neglecting Maintenance
In the past, I used to organize my closet and then forget about it until it became a mess again.
Now, I spend a few minutes each day maintaining my closet. I put away clothes immediately after laundry, return items to their designated space, and quickly scan for any items that can be decluttered. Regular maintenance is key to keeping a closet organized in the long run.
13. Not Making Use of Unused Spaces
I used to ignore the unused spaces in and around my closet, like the top of the closet or the space under the bed.
Now, I use these spaces for storing out-of-season clothes or less frequently used items. This not only frees up space in my closet but also keeps my items clean and dust-free.
14. Trying to Achieve Perfection
I used to get frustrated when my closet didn’t look like the ones I saw in magazines or Pinterest. But I realized that the goal of organizing is to create a functional space that works for me, not to achieve picture-perfect aesthetics.
Now, I strive for functionality and ease of use rather than perfection. I’ve learned to accept that my closet will get messy from time to time, and that’s okay. The important thing is to have a system in place that makes it easy to get back on track.
Organizing a closet can be a daunting task, but learning from past mistakes can make the process smoother and more effective. I hope my experiences can help you avoid these common pitfalls and create a closet that’s not only tidy but also truly functional. Remember, the goal is not perfection, but a closet that works for you.
