get your closet organized

How many times have you stuffed an unwanted item in the back of a closet? Eventually those little rooms in our houses start busting at the seams and next thing you know, a simple outdoor excursion that requires a coat turns into a heap of stuff on the floor. So here are a few tips for updating closets without spending a ton of money:

Tip #1: Tackle one closet at a time and take everything out. Sort through things and throw out or give away what you haven't used or will never use in the future. Donate the stuff that doesn't fit anymore!

Tip #2: Figure out how you're going to use the closet space. Is it going to be just for coats and umbrellas or does the vacuum cleaner need to go in there too? This will help you determine which accessories you'll need to make everything fit properly.

Tip #3: Once you've figured out what needs to go in the closet, add accessories and shelves to make the space more efficient. Extra shelves, a shoe pocket hung on the inside of any door and clear storage bins are a huge help.

Tip #4: Get wire shelf dividers for your linen closet and group together sheet sets and towel sets rather than having a pile of pillow cases all mixed together or a pile of wash cloths.

Tip #5: Accessories make a big difference in the closet. For one thing, get rid of wire hangers and buy a set of uniform hangers, be they plastic or wood.

Tip #6: A collection of purses always seems to make a bedroom or coat closet an utter mess. I love every single one of mine yet they're piled on top of each other on a few hooks in my closet. A large basket is one way to keep them all together and out of the way.

Tip #7: If a trip to the Container Store or Target isn't going to solve your closet problem, consider a shelving system that can easily be changed. You'll want to be able to reconfigure shelving and storage spaces as the family grows. Some of these systems are easy enough to install yourself.

Tip #8: For a kid's closet, consider using baskets or hanging shelves rather than having kids try to hang up clothing themselves. You want to give them a one-step process so they can put stuff away easily. Simple is best when it comes to kids.

Tip #9: As much as I love the Container Store, only go there for the unique items. Plastic bins and hangers are much cheaper at places like Target and Wal-Mart.