8 Tips to Make the Most of a Small Closet, According to Professional Organizers

by | Jan 30, 2025 | Cleaning | 0 comments

By: Ashley Chalmers

small closet storage
 Marcus Lindstrom / Getty Images

A small closet can be an incredibly frustrating space to organize. It requires a lot of effort to keep organized because small storage spaces are prone to over-stuffing.

Luckily, even in the smallest of closets, there are plenty of ways you can maximize the space. We turned to two professional organizers for their top tips on making the most of a tiny closet.

Meet the Expert

  • Carol Appelbaum is a professional organizer and the founder of Luxury Pro Organizer. 
  • ​​Diane N. Quintana is a certified professional organizer certified and the founder of DNQ Solutions, LLC professional organizing company.

01. Remove Everything and Measure First

measuring the shelf of a small closet Connect Images / Getty Images

It’s great if you’re starting with a fresh, clear closet, but if you’re starting with a space that’s already full of stuff, professional organizer Carol Appelbaum says your first step should be to clear everything out.

Then measure everything—including the shelves.

“Think about ways to utilize both horizontal and vertical space,” says Appelbaum. “A thorough assessment of the space and your storage needs is the foundation for a successful organization project.”

02. Cut Down the Hanger Clutter

Black velvet non-slip hangers on a rail  Maya23K / Getty Images

One of the biggest problems in a small closet is major hanger clutter. To best avoid this, professional organizer Diane N. Quintana suggests committing to slim line fabric hangers. 

These are better for your clothing, and take up less space. If other hangers try to sneak in, be discerning and edit them back out.

“Recycle wire hangers at the dry cleaner’s,” Quintana suggests.

03. Make the Most of Door Hooks

Close up of four coat hooks mounted on the back of a closet door. bauhaus1000 / Getty Images

Depending on the layout of your small closet, Appelbaum says you should try to incorporate storage solutions to the closet door.

Adding hooks could be an efficient solution for storing items like hats, bags, scarves, and belts. You can also look at over-the-door storage solutions; these are often designed to store shoes and accessories, or you can get a similar function from towel bars attached to the door. 

If done well, this can free up floor or shelf space, but it requires some pre-planning. 

“Before installing anything on the door, make sure the door will close if you add anything,” Appelbaum says.

04. Use Hanging Organizers

small closet with efficient hanging storage solutions Daniel Cortez / Getty Images

If you have more hanging space than you need but are short on shelves, you can add more—no drilling or hammering involved. This can be done with a hanging closet organizer.

“These come in a variety of colors, sizes, and materials,” says Quintana. “Some are made of cloth and others are wire.”

These can be helpful for everything from sweaters to extra towels, and can help free up more of your vertical space.

05. Keep It Stackable

Two white boxes on a shelf for a good organization. lucop / Getty Images

It might be a good idea to either replace or add storage containers. If so, it’s best to invest in stackable solutions.

“Stacking things high makes the most of limited square footage,” says Appelbaum.

If they have lids or will need to be stored up high, these are great options for your seasonal or overflow items that don’t need to be readily accessible at all times.

06. Streamline Your Storage Aesthetic

clean bath towels folded on shelf, wicker baskets with cosmetics bottles and massage brush in wooden cabinet with open door in modern bathroom, storage concept brizmaker / Getty Images

If you’re investing in new storage containers for a small closet, Appelbaum says it’s important to look for uniform containers. Too many mismatched boxes and bins can create a visual mess, and that will only make your small closet feel even more overwhelming. 

“Labeling the containers can also help you quickly locate items when needed,” adds Appelbaum.

07. Make a Plan for Bulky Items

Shoes stored in an over the door rack cerro_photography / Getty Images

While storage bins and containers are great for some things, bulky and awkwardly shaped items can be trickier. Shoe storage, for example, can be a major pain point in a small closet. Appelbaum says the best way to combat this is with some creativity.  

“Consider shoe racks, pockets on the door, or stackable shoe boxes to keep shoes organized,” she says.

Appelbaum also notes that the goal here is not only to maximize your space, but also make it easier to find shoes when needed.

08. Rotate Your Wardrobe

small closet that maximizes space
Khongkit Wiriyachan / Getty Images

To avoid overstuffing your small closet, Appelbaum says it’s a good idea to regularly edit your wardrobe. 

“Periodically get rid of clothing you no longer wear,” she says. “Fewer items are easier to keep organized.”

Along with helping your closet stay streamlined and organized, Appelbaum says a well-curated wardrobe can make getting dressed more enjoyable, too.

“A clutter-free, well-organized space can provide a sense of calm and sophistication every time you open the door,” she says.

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