Small Changes, Big Impact: Custom Closet Habits That Work

Embrace the Seasonal Switch

Getting your closet organized starts with a simple trick: switching out your clothes based on the weather. Just like the seasons change, your clothes should, too. Whenever a new season begins, spend some time looking through your closet and evaluating your wardrobe. Put away the clothes that aren't right for the current weather conditions and bring out the ones that are. This doesn't just make more room in your closet, but it also lets you think about what clothes you really like and need.

Follow the One-In-One-Out Rule

Here's a simple custom closet organization trick that works well: the "one-in-one-out" rule. Whenever you add something new to your closet—like a new shirt or shoes—remove something old that you don't wear anymore. This helps keep your closet from getting cluttered with items you no longer want or wear.

Categorize and Color-Code

An organized closet is all about efficient categorization. Separate your clothes into categories like tops, bottoms, dresses, and outerwear. Within each category, take it a step further by color-coding. This not only makes finding clothes easier but also adds a visually pleasing aspect to your closet.

Invest in Quality Storage Solutions

Customizing your closet doesn't necessarily mean a complete overhaul. Consider investing in storage solutions like hanging shelves, hooks, and bins. These can help maximize your closet space and keep everything in its designated place. Shoe organizers, for instance, can free up floor space while keeping your footwear easily accessible. According to Better Homes & Gardens, over-the-door and hanging shoe organizers are a great option if you’re low on floor space and have plenty of shoes to store.

Perform the Five-Minute Tidy

Incorporate a five-minute tidy into your daily routine. Before you head to bed or as you're getting ready in the morning, take just five minutes to put things back in their designated spots. Hang up clothes that ended up on the chair, fold any clothes that got tossed aside, and arrange your accessories neatly. This small habit prevents clutter from building up over time.

Embrace Regular Purging Sessions

Schedule regular purging sessions throughout the year. Every few months, set aside time to go through your closet with a discerning eye. If you haven't worn an item in the last six months to a year, it's probably time to let it go. Donate or sell items that no longer serve you, and you'll create more space for the pieces you truly love.

Plan Outfits in Advance

Mornings can be hectic, but you can eliminate the stress of choosing an outfit by planning ahead. Take a few minutes each evening to decide what you'll wear the next day. Pull out the clothes, accessories, and shoes you'll need and have them ready to go. This not only saves time but also prevents you from creating a mess as you rush to put together an outfit.

Keep Your Surfaces Clear

The top of your dresser and any other surfaces in your closet area should remain clutter-free. It's easy to let items pile up on these surfaces, but doing so can quickly turn your organized closet into a chaotic mess. Make it a habit to keep these spaces clear and only place essential items there, such as jewelry or frequently worn accessories.

Hang Wisely

Not all clothes need to be hung on hangers. Items like sweaters, knitwear, and certain types of dresses can lose their shape if hung for too long. Use hangers for items that truly benefit from being hung and fold the rest neatly on shelves or in drawers.

Remember That Consistency Is Key

Finally, the key to maintaining an organized closet is consistency. Once you've implemented these custom closet habits, make a conscious effort to stick with them. Over time, these habits will become second nature, and your closet will remain a haven of organization and functionality.

Conclusion

The journey to an organized closet begins with small changes that yield significant impact. By adopting proactive organization habits, you can create a custom closet that not only houses your clothes but also streamlines your daily routine. Remember that an organized closet isn't just about the physical space—it's about cultivating mindful habits that reflect in other aspects of your life too.

Source

• https://www.bhg.com/decorating/closets/walk-in/walk-in-closet-organization/