Closet Rehab: Ditch the Clutter & Fix Your Space!
Your closet should be a sanctuary, not a battleground. If getting dressed means digging through piles, wrestling with hangers, or searching for that missing shoe, it’s time for an overhaul. Closet chaos doesn’t just eat up your space - it steals your time, your patience, and your energy. The good news? A few smart strategies can make a big impact. Below you’ll find a handful of steps and ideas that will help you take control of your closet and make the most of every inch.
First (and Most Important): Declutter Like You Actually Mean It
Let’s be honest: this is the hardest part - and the most important. Decluttering is where the real transformation happens, but it’s also where most people get stuck. You’re not just sorting clothes; you’re making decisions about your habits, your identity, and maybe even a few guilt-ridden impulse buys.
Here’s the truth: if everything is important, then nothing is. That top you haven’t worn in three years? It’s not “just in case” - it’s just in your way. That dress you used to love but doesn’t fit anymore? Keeping it doesn’t serve you now. Your closet is not too small, it’s just full of stuff you don’t wear. Sorry to be the bearer of bad news, but I’m bringin’ the heat today, so let’s face reality together.
Instead of focusing on what to get rid of, flip the question: what do I actually wear, love, and feel good in? Keep those. Everything else is just background noise.
Your closet should reflect who you are right now, not who you were five years ago, and not some version of who you think you should be. Aspirational clothes - those items you hope to wear once you lose weight or get that dream job - can absolutely be motivating! It’s perfectly okay to keep a few of those pieces as inspiration. Just make sure they’re the exception, not the rule. A closet packed with ‘someday’ clothes can feel more discouraging than empowering. As a general rule, make decisions based on the life you're living today.
2. Group by Category / Function
When it comes to closet organization, function beats color every time. Start by grouping your clothes based on what they are, not how they look together. This will not only make it easier to find what you’re looking for but also help you see exactly what you have.
Now, let’s acknowledge the obvious: everyone organizes their closet differently. Some people prefer hanging everything, while others fold items neatly into drawers or onto shelves. Either method is perfectly fine! Whether you hang or fold, grouping your clothes by category and function will help keep things streamlined.
Tops: Sort by sleeve length - short sleeves, long sleeves, and tank tops. If you hang everything, this method makes it easy to grab the right item at a glance. If you file fold your shirts (a must for maximizing drawer space), categorize them in the same way. File folding allows you to see every item without having to dig, and it’s much more efficient than a messy pile.
Bottoms: If you prefer hanging your pants, organize by type - jeans, trousers, skirts. For those who prefer folding, keep your pants neatly stacked in drawers or on shelves. File folding works great for pants as well, ensuring you can grab exactly what you need without a struggle.
Dresses & Skirts: These are often best hung to avoid wrinkles, but if you’d rather fold them, it’s definitely possible with a little care. Keep them grouped by occasion (work, casual, formal) or season. If you do hang, consider using padded hangers to keep them in good shape.
Jackets & Outerwear: While true outerwear (like winter coats and rain jackets) may not always live in your bedroom closet, some jackets - like denim or leather - absolutely belong in there. These items are often staples in a wardrobe, especially when paired with everyday outfits. They deserve their own section in your bedroom closet, whether that’s a dedicated rail for jackets or a section of your closet set aside specifically for these go-to pieces. By giving them their own space, you keep them organized and easily accessible, while also ensuring other clothing items aren’t overcrowding them. For other types of outerwear (such as heavier coats or rain gear), you might want to use a separate coat closet or mudroom. If you lack the space for a dedicated coat closet, consider wall hooks or a standing coat rack near your entryway to keep things organized and easily accessible.
Shoes: For the shoe lover who wants to keep their collection visible, clear shoe boxes or storage racks can be a game-changer. Clear boxes let you see exactly what’s inside without having to dig through piles of shoes. Shoe racks are another great option—these come in many styles, from stackable racks to over-the-door hangers, to fit any closet size. If you have limited closet space, consider under-bed storage or vertical storage solutions to keep shoes neat and accessible. For added organization, group shoes by type (sneakers, heels, sandals, etc.) so you always know where to find your favorites. And if you're short on space, consider keeping your most worn shoes on a rack at eye level for easy access, while storing the rest in boxes or bins.
By organizing your closet based on function, you’ll spend less time searching and more time enjoying your clothes. This approach makes it easier to find exactly what you need without digging through piles or shuffling things around. Plus, it helps you assess what you actually wear on a regular basis, making it easier to declutter on the regular.
3. Use the “Right” Hangers (Oh Yes, It Matters)
One of the most common things I hear from my clients after working in their closets is how amazed they are by the difference the “right” hangers can make! Swapping hangers isn't just about improving the aesthetic appeal - although your closet will look ten times better. They also keep your clothes hanging evenly and save precious inches of rail space. Slimline velvet hangers are a great choice in my book - you can usually grab a bunch for an affordable price at your local Costco, Home Goods, Target, or the like. They help everything to fit better and stay on the hanger (instead of constantly slipping and falling on your floor).
4. Look Vertically
When it comes to maximizing closet space, vertical storage is your best friend. Utilizing the height in your closet can make a big difference. Look up and you’ll often see blank wall space above your closet rod or your top shelf. That’s prime real estate!
Installing L-bracket shelves or adjustable shelving designed specifically for closets can be a game-changer, as they can keep things you need on the daily (like purses and shoes) very accessible. But these solutions can also hold items like bins of extra linens or seasonal clothes if you’re short on space (which, hey - a lot of us are) and it helps to keep the floor clutter-free.
5. Rethink Your Closet Door
Let’s talk about that closet door. Swinging, sliding, bi-fold - it’s taking up real estate and offering nothing in return. It’s time it pulled its weight.
If you’ve got sliding doors, one of my absolute favorite things to do with clients is to remove the doors entirely. Pop them off, stash them in the garage, on the back porch, or under a bed for safekeeping. You can even install a rod and maybe some cool curtains to really take it up a notch! Suddenly, you’ve got a fully open closet that feels bigger, more accessible, and more stylish. No more shuffling panels to get to the one shirt you actually want. Give it a test drive. If you hate it, you can always pop them back on their tracks. But chances are you’ll love how open and inviting your closet suddenly feels.
If you’ve got a standard swinging door, don’t waste that vertical space. Over-the-door racks or hooks are great for housing belts, scarves, hats, or even lightweight bags. Just be sure the items aren’t too bulky.
6. Add Some Style: Make Your Closet Look as Good as It Works
Hang in with me here, because this does actually matter. A visually pleasing closet isn’t just about aesthetics - it’s a maintained space that encourages you to keep it organized. When your closet looks good, you’re more likely to keep it that way. A little bit of style can transform your closet from a chaotic storage area to a space you enjoy walking into.
We already mentioned matching hangers as a simple way to streamline your closet, but let’s build on that. Adding a decorative touch like wallpaper or a fresh coat of paint can completely elevate the space. Whether you go for bold patterns, calming neutrals, or something in between, these changes make your closet feel intentional, not just functional. Paint and wallpaper add instant personality, and they’re an easy upgrade that doesn't require a complete renovation. (PS - thediyplaybook.com has a great DIY tutorial for how to wallpaper a closet!)
Another great option is incorporating a mirror into your closet design. Not only does it serve a functional purpose (helping you put together outfits), but it also makes the space feel bigger and brighter. A strategically placed mirror can add depth and reflect light, making your closet feel more open and airy.
For accessories and smaller items, consider decorative bins or boxes that can both store and display. If you’re a sneaker collector, clear shoe boxes are a great way to showcase your Jordans or other prized kicks while keeping them protected and easy to grab. Not only does this make your collection part of the decor, but it ensures your shoes stay organized and easily accessible.
Add a little flair with something like beads hanging from the door (if that’s your vibe) or a bold, colorful curtain. These small touches help give your closet a unique personality, and they can make the space feel more like an extension of your style rather than just a storage area.
Lighting is another key element. A good light fixture or some under-shelf lighting can transform your closet into a well-lit, inviting space. Good lighting makes it easier to see your wardrobe choices and also sets the tone for the entire space.
In the end, making your closet visually pleasing doesn’t mean it needs to be extravagant - it’s about creating a space that feels maintained, functional, and a little bit of fun. When it looks good, you’ll be more likely to keep it that way.
7. Drawer Dividers: Because Chaos is So Last Season
Okay, I know we're talking about closets, and many of you may not have drawers inside your closet - but stick with me here. No matter where your drawers are - whether they’re in a dresser, under your bed, or tucked away somewhere else - if they hold clothes, this is for you. Drawer dividers are about to become your best friend in the battle against drawer chaos.
Think about it: you’ve got a drawer full of socks, scarves, or even your collection of t-shirts and jeans. Without dividers, they all end up in one giant heap, making it impossible to find what you need without digging around. But with dividers? Everything has a home. No more sock-searching or “where did I put that shirt?” moments.
Dividers help keep everything separated, neat, and easy to find. You can either buy them or get creative and make your own using inexpensive materials (cardboard, foam board, or even shoe boxes work wonders). The secret is grouping similar items together - think socks by season, t-shirts in one section, and jeans in another. Personally, I like the spring-loaded variety, but there are many kinds out there, so just look around for what works well inside your dresser drawers and makes you happy.
I’m a fan of file-folding - this is when you fold items into rectangles so they stand up in the drawer, giving you a clear view of everything at once. You can quickly see your options without making a mess, and when everything has its own little space, it’s far easier to keep things organized.
8. Add a Valet Rod
A valet rod is a small but mighty tool in your closet organization arsenal. Think of it as your personal assistant for keeping your outfits ready to go, especially for those busy mornings when time is tight. A valet rod is typically a retractable or foldable bar that can be installed on the inside of your closet or even the back of the door. It’s perfect for hanging your clothes for the next day, or for prepping outfits ahead of time.
Not only does it give you a dedicated spot to hang your outfit, but it also helps you visualize the entire look, making it easier to assess whether everything works together. It’s an ideal spot for hanging a dress, suit, or even a bag that complements your outfit.
In addition, a valet rod is a life-saver for those transitional clothes - things going back into your closet. Don’t toss it on the chair if it’s not “all the way dirty yet.” Hang it up and air it out on the valet rack, and have a section in your closet for those types of clothes (you all know what I’m talking about… the ones that we’ve worn but they’re not ready for the wash. They’ve got a wear or two left in them.)
If you find yourself often rushing or scrambling to pull together outfits, a valet rod can streamline your morning routine and keep your closet feeling more organized overall. Consider it a simple investment in making your closet work a little harder for you. Here are a few options, but look around to find one that’s just perfect for you. But just make sure you can tuck it away! Choose a foldable or retractable version to keep it out of the way when not in use.
9. Rotate Clothes Seasonally (But Only If You Need To)
People always talk about rotating your clothing seasonally, but I’m not so quick to jump into that camp. Plenty of clothing items can span multiple seasons - think sweaters for chilly summer mornings or that versatile jacket that works in both fall and spring. I wear many of my tanks under warm hoodies in the winter. And the thing is, it’s a pain to constantly be swapping clothes in between each season. Many people forget or are just frustrated by the whole thing.
So if you can, just remove the entire process from your to-do list. If you have the space, keep everything in your closet and enjoy easy access year-round. Just make sure it’s grouped by category like we talked about in Section 2 above - that way the warm stuff is together and you can find it easily.
But if space is limited and you’re constantly battling a cramped closet, rotating your clothes by season might be a game-changer. It’s all about smart storage: when the weather shifts, swap out those heavier sweaters, sweatshirts, scarves, etc. for your lighter tanks and summer tees. Keep a few key transitional pieces (like that cardigan you can throw over a t-shirt on a chilly evening), but store the rest of your off-season clothes in bins, under-bed storage, or on high shelves. The goal here is to reduce clutter while still having access to what you need for the current season.
10. Consider a Capsule Wardrobe
A capsule wardrobe isn’t for everyone, but don’t rule it out so fast! I used to roll my eyes at the idea, but then I tried it, and things changed. I’ve known many people who have done the same have been amazed at how wonderfully it simplifies their entire life. Not just the ease of getting dressed, but also the lower volume of laundry and clothing hanging out all over the house, too. It’s a fun experiment to try, and if you’re able, I’d encourage you to give it a whirl at least once in your life.
A capsule wardrobe can be wonderful if you really want to simplify. It can have as many or as few clothes that work for you, but I’d suggest you pare it down by half. The general consensus is that people have an average of 30-50 pieces in a capsule collection (tops, bottoms, outerwear, dresses, and shoes combined). Raid your closet and curate a small collection of versatile, high-quality pieces that can be mixed and matched. Less clutter, more style. It’s magic.
Capsule wardrobes can be as casual or as dressy as you’d like - have fun, and curate them to fit whatever lifestyle you’d like!
Final Thoughts
Organizing your closet is a bit like starting a workout: it’s hard to get going, but once you do, you’re glad you did. So roll up your sleeves, turn on some tunes, and imagine the future you, standing in front of a great closet that is EXACTLY what you need.
Just remember: the system only works if you work it. Keep up with the habits, adjust as your needs change, and don’t let the clutter creep back in.
Happy decluttering and organizing! And PS - if you need a little help, I’m always down for a virtual organizing session. Just hit me up!
Hey there! I’m Kerry, and I’m a professional home organizer in the Northwest, specifically the Portland, Oregon / Vancouver, Washington area. I also travel up to the Mat-Su Valley region of Alaska (Anchorage, Palmer, Wasilla) a few times a year - going everywhere clearing clutter from people’s homes. I’ll meet you where you're at, zero judgment (and will bring along a sense of humor).
We can declutter, organize, and create spaces that support the life you want to live!
If you’d like, you can learn a bit more about me here.
Want to schedule a no judgment, complimentary consultation? I’d love the opportunity to meet you, hear your story, and learn how I can help.
