don’t wait until frost blankets the ground to dig out your warm layers and cozy sweaters. here’s our guide to making your closet work for you each and every chilly day.
Still haven’t gotten around to changing up your closet from tees and capris to sweaters and scarves? Not to worry: These are the seven essentials you need to make the swap-out, organize your closet, and speed up your getting-dressed routine.
over-the-door shoe and boot rack
Look at your closet door(s) as untapped storage space, says home organization expert Bonnie Dewkett of The Joyful Organizer. It’s the perfect spot for a hanging rack to keep shoes from hogging the floor and boots from flopping over.
hanging shelves
Sweaters and jeans take up valuable closet rod space. Get some of that real estate back by adding hanging shelves for bulky items. “Instead of folding those clothes, roll them,” says Dewkett. “You’ll avoid creases and fit more in each cubby.”
shelf dividers
Clip-on separators keep piles of sweaters, towels, and T-shirts from toppling over. Be sure to purchase the right kind for your closet shelf (some won’t work with wire shelving). Another idea is to maximize the under-the-shelf space for additional storage, with a hanging basket for odds and ends like belts, ties, umbrellas, and lightweight accessories.
collapsible bins
Not just for laundry day anymore, these pop-up storage bins are ideal for small spaces because they hold more than you can imagine and fold flat for easy storage when they’re not needed.
stick-on hooks
Put empty wall space to work with 3M Command™ hooks. These stay put with adhesive strips (no hammering needed). They also hold up to five pounds—enough to support scarves, hats, wet towels, and most bags.
wall-mounted baskets
These containers look chic in a closet and keep accessories, socks, important documents, and more within easy reach.
underbed bins and bags
You don’t need a spare closet to get off-season stuff out of the way. Just pick up some underbed storage pieces. Choose clear vacuum-sealed bags or clear storage bins, so you can quickly find what you need if the weather warms up unexpectedly.