With No Entryway Closet to Speak Of, I Asked Pro Organizers to Fix My Coat Clutter

The author recounts her personal struggle with an overflowing and disorganized closet, a common issue stemming from sentimental attachment to clothing and an aversion to parting with items. Her closet had become a chaotic space, making the daily task of getting dressed a frustrating ordeal. Despite her husband's suggestions to declutter, the emotional weight of the task felt overwhelming, preventing her from creating a neat, organized space. This challenge led her to seek the expertise of Rachel Rosenthal, a professional organizer and founder of Rachel & Company. Rosenthal's approach to closet organization is detailed through four key steps, emphasizing not just physical tidiness but also the emotional and practical aspects of decluttering. The first step, "Be Compassionate with Yourself," highlights the emotional component of decluttering. Rosenthal advises against tying self-worth to the tidiness of one's space and encourages self-grace during the organizing process. She emphasizes that organization is a tool to simplify life, not a reflection of personal value, which was a crucial insight for the author who felt overwhelmed by the project. The second step, "Sort Smart," focuses on practical decision-making for each clothing item. The core questions to ask are: When was the last time this was worn? Was it within the past year? Why not? Do I love it? Do I feel good wearing it? This process helped the author confront her changing body image and preferences, realizing that many old clothes no longer suited her current style or made her feel good. This systematic approach allowed her to identify items that truly deserved a place in her wardrobe versus those held onto out of habit or sentimentality. "Think About Your Space and Habits" is the third step, advocating for personalized organization systems. Rosenthal clarifies that effective organization isn't about perfectly color-coordinated displays but rather about creating systems that align with individual routines and the physical constraints of the space. For the author, this meant addressing her narrow closet with high shelves by relocating everyday shoes to accessible shelves and using bins for infrequently worn items on higher shelves, making the space functional despite her height. The final step, "Put Clothes Back with Purpose," underscores the importance of arranging clothes based on frequency of use and outfit assembly routines. The most frequently worn items should be the easiest to access. This involved hanging dresses, blouses, and jumpsuits centrally, while folding jeans and pants on shelves with dividers to prevent them from toppling. This simple reorganization created space for daily essentials like belts and zip-up jackets, significantly reducing the time and stress associated with getting ready. The author reports that her closet remains organized, acknowledging that while not every item unworn in the past year was discarded, sentimental pieces like her grandmother's coat are respectfully stored, demonstrating a balanced approach to organization that honors personal memories. #ProfessionalOrganizer #ClosetOrganization #DeclutteringTips #HomeOrganization #StorageSolutions #EmotionalDecluttering #WardrobeManagement #RachelRosenthal

Organizing clothes in drawers can be a challenge, but creating an effective system is crucial for managing laundry and maintaining an organized home. Unlike hanging clothes or stacking them on shelves, drawers present unique considerations, as items are often out of sight, leading to potential disarray. Professional organizers emphasize the benefits of using drawers for clothing storage, highlighting their accessibility and ability to protect garments from dust and sunlight. Drawers are particularly useful for categorizing smaller items such as socks, underwear, belts, and scarves, with various inserts available to maximize space. They also offer additional storage outside of traditional closets, allowing for compartmentalization, such as dedicating specific drawers to swimwear, athletic apparel, or everyday essentials. The process of organizing clothes in drawers begins with a thorough purge of belongings. This initial step involves reviewing all clothing items to identify and prioritize garments that are regularly worn and enjoyed. Professional organizers recommend donating clothing not worn in over a year, unless it holds significant sentimental value. Duplicates, ill-fitting items, and damaged pieces should also be removed, as they occupy valuable storage space that could be used for current wardrobe items. Sentimental items can be stored separately to keep everyday drawers functional and clutter-free. Once clothing has been purged, the next step involves cleaning and measuring the drawers. Wiping down surfaces ensures a dust-free environment for stored clothes. While the drawers are empty, measuring their height, width, and length is essential for selecting appropriate drawer dividers and organizers. Simple solutions that maximize vertical storage, prevent snagging, and keep categories separate are recommended. After cleaning and measuring, categorize the remaining garments. This can be done by color, category (e.g., jeans with jeans, sweaters with sweaters), or a combination, depending on personal preference. The goal is to create a system that is intuitive and easy to maintain. With everything categorized, the final step is to put the clothes away systematically. Folding clothes consistently and stacking them vertically within drawer dividers is key, as this method allows for quick visual access to all similar pieces. Using a folding board can help maintain consistency for larger items. It's important to avoid overstuffing drawers; every item should have its designated place. Garments worn frequently, such as jeans, socks, and underwear, should be stored in top drawers for easy access, while lesser-used or off-season items can be placed in bottom drawers or alternative storage. Maintaining an organized drawer system requires consistent effort. Professional organizers suggest several tips for long-term organization, including labeling drawers, especially in shared spaces, to aid in decision-making and prevent excess. Regular, short tidying sessions are encouraged to address misplaced items immediately, preventing overwhelming build-ups. Additionally, adopting a “one in, one out” mentality helps prevent drawers from becoming overpacked, ensuring that the storage system remains functional and works with one's lifestyle rather than against it. By following these steps, individuals can achieve a sense of organized peace every time they open a drawer. #HomeOrganization #ClothingStorage #DrawerOrganization #Decluttering #ProfessionalOrganizers #WardrobeManagement #HomeImprovement #LaundryCare

A well-organized coat closet is more than just a place to store jackets; it’s a streamlined space for all out-the-door essentials like umbrellas and snow boots. The key to achieving this is establishing an effective system where everything has a designated place, making maintenance easier. Before diving into organization, a crucial first step is decluttering. This involves going through every item in the coat closet and making decisions about what to keep, discarding unworn clothing, old linens, or shoes that haven't been used in years. Once decluttering is complete, prioritizing frequently used items is essential. The most accessible areas of the closet, often referred to as "prime real estate," should be reserved for items needed regularly for quick trips. This might necessitate pulling everything out and sorting items into categories to determine what deserves priority placement. Items used less frequently can then be stored on upper shelves or in lower drawers. Maximizing every inch of the coat closet, including door and floor space, is also vital. Over-the-door storage solutions are excellent for hats, scarves, umbrellas, and touch-up items like lint rollers, providing easy access as one leaves the house. Similarly, the floor space can be utilized effectively with shoe racks or baskets. For smaller items such as mittens and seasonal accessories, investing in baskets and bins is a game-changer. Labeling these containers is highly recommended, especially in households with children, to ensure everyone knows where items belong. A sturdy shoe rack at the bottom of the closet can prevent messy piles of footwear at the entryway. Alternatively, extra-large sturdy baskets can serve the same purpose, or individual baskets can be assigned to each family member for their belongings. Wall space should also be leveraged by installing hooks, which are particularly useful for children's items, oddly shaped objects like long umbrellas, or pet leashes. Hooks can be stacked vertically or horizontally depending on available space and the height of users. If the coat closet lacks built-in shelving, incorporating a short storage unit with drawers can provide much-needed organization for small accessories like scarves, earmuffs, and gloves, ideally with dividers to keep things tidy. Organizing coats by length is another strategic tip; since longer coats demand more space, dedicating specific sections ensures efficient use of hanging areas. For instance, creating a double-hang section for shorter jackets and reserving a smaller section for longer coats allows for storage of shoes and boots underneath the longer garments. Protecting off-season coats from moths is important. Storing them in breathable cotton garment bags with cedar planks as a natural repellent is effective. Vacuum storage bags can compress off-season items, maximizing space for current seasonal gear. Preventing dampness and dirt is crucial, so wet coats and shoes should be allowed to dry outside the closet before being put away. Simple tools like binder clips can help keep wellies upright without requiring bulky boot shapers. Upgrading to quality, coordinating hangers is a small change with a big impact. Matching sturdy hangers maximize rod space, with cedar hangers offering durability and pest, mildew, and odor repellent properties. Slim, non-slip velvet hangers are ideal for heavier garments while saving space. Ensuring every family member has a dedicated space within the coat closet, even if it's just a small bin for personal items, promotes organization. Finally, for homes where the vacuum cleaner resides in the coat closet, a wall-mounted organizer for the hose and attachments can prevent it from becoming a tangled mess, making it easier to access and maintain the closet's overall tidiness. #CoatClosetOrganization #HomeOrganization #Decluttering #StorageSolutions #ClosetDesign #SeasonalStorage #EfficientSpaceUtilization #ProfessionalOrganizerTips #HomeImprovement

The article presents 12 professional organizer-approved closet storage solutions aimed at transforming cluttered closets into organized, boutique-like spaces. These solutions, ranging from $16, offer practical ways to maximize space and protect clothing and accessories. The recommendations come from Laura Ellis, CEO of Los Angeles-based Organized by Ellis, who emphasizes that not all storage solutions are equally effective and that strategic upgrades can significantly improve closet functionality. One key recommendation is the use of Hayden Hill Luxury Cotton Sweater Storage Bags, particularly for delicate items like cashmere. These breathable, 100% cotton bags come in a two-pack with transparent panels, allowing for easy identification of contents while protecting garments from dust and damage, thus extending their lifespan. For smaller or less delicate fabrics, StorageWorks Storage Bins are suggested. These bins feature a metal frame for structure and a soft, linen-like material, functioning like drawers on shelves. Ellis also advises pairing these bins with clip labels for clear organization, stating that this combination is ideal for effortlessly tidy closets. Drawer organization is addressed with Utoplike 4-Piece Bamboo Drawer Dividers. These spring-loaded dividers, typically associated with kitchen use, are presented as versatile tools for any closet drawer, turning chaotic items like socks and leggings into neatly organized sections. Their adjustability and reusability are highlighted as smart, long-term upgrades. For accessing high shelves, the Woa Woa 4-Step 10-Foot Ladder is deemed essential, especially for closets with significant vertical space. This ladder is praised for its aesthetic appeal, stability, and wide, non-slip steps, ensuring safe access to out-of-season or hard-to-reach items. A Songmics Mirror Jewelry Organizer offers a dual function as a full-length mirror and a hidden storage solution for jewelry and accessories. This wall-mounted or over-the-door organizer saves space and makes jewelry visible and accessible, encouraging more frequent use. For clutches and small purses, the HeZone Acrylic Organizer, a four-compartment unit, keeps items upright and easily retrievable. It includes a transparent bottom drawer for miscellaneous accessories, allowing for quick visual identification. The Kdsksc Acrylic Belt Organizer provides a dedicated space for up to six belts, preventing tangles and ensuring they are visible and easily selected. The BaiNong 12-Inch Valet Rod is a practical addition for temporarily hanging planned outfits or dry-cleaned clothes, preventing wrinkles and keeping them visible. This simple rod helps maintain neatness and reduces the need for re-ironing. The Simple Houseware Adjustable Closet Hanging Rod is presented as a genius solution for doubling hanging space. Its easy assembly and sturdy design make it suitable for various users, including children, by making clothes more accessible and visible. Beyond clothing and accessories, the Engpow Fireproof Document Bag is recommended for safeguarding important documents such as passports, titles, and insurance papers. This fire-resistant bag provides a secure, grab-and-go solution for essential papers, offering peace of mind. For versatile storage, the Max Houser 3-Tier Rolling Utility Cart is highlighted for its ability to create vertical storage and its mobility. It can be used for accessories or garment care items like steamers and lint brushes. Finally, the Neakasa Magic Vacuum Steamer, while not a traditional organizer, is included for its role in maintaining wrinkle-free clothes. Its gentle suction and lightweight design make it efficient for keeping garments fresh and presentable, complementing an organized closet. #ClosetOrganization #StorageSolutions #HomeDecor #ProfessionalOrganizer #SpaceSaving #WardrobeCare #AmazonFinds #HomeImprovement #Decluttering