The Common Feature That Is Seriously Outdating Your Closet (& What To Do About It)

It seems like there are so many little details within a home that can date it and make it feel less modern. Luckily, there are plenty of simple upgrades that can really elevate a dwelling. When it comes to your closets, it's easy to forget that they need a little refresh from time to time, especially since they are so rarely used by anyone but you and those you share it with. And there's one small element that could be dating your closet: carpet floors. Not only that, but they create more dust and dirt, which your clothing and accessories then collect. Between having to vacuum one more space in your home and worrying about keeping it free of dander and other allergens, carpeting can really pull a closet down.

If you have the budget or time to get rid of the carpet in your closet, swapping it out for harder flooring can have a number of benefits. Investing in hardwood, vinyl, tile, or any other similar material makes your closet much easier — a big perk that makes it worth the investment. These options will also give your storage the overhaul it needs for a more modern, stylish finish.

Whether you want to upgrade your closet or are working on a new build, picking the ideal flooring is just as important a task as it is for any other room. Closets come into contact with a lot of the same dust, dirt, hair, dander, and other particles that collect on carpets, and they typically aren't cleaned as regularly either. Not only that, but the wear on this material can also make it come across as dull and flat, putting a damper on your area's aesthetic. Unless you want to pay to get your carpet steam cleaned or deep cleaned, it's tricky to get out the bacteria and dirt that can be ground down into the carpeting's fibers. Dust and dirt particles also contribute to poor airflow, and in such a confined space this could be detrimental.

For the most cost-efficient and easy-to-clean flooring, laminate or vinyl can give your closet the vibe of a high-end finish. These materials create the effect of expensive hardwood without the high price tag or the maintenance needs. Since these flooring types come in so many different finishes and colors, you can really get as stylish with your closet designs as you want. Daily maintenance only requires a broom to remove dust and hair, and then you can use the Swiffer to do a deep clean once a week or less. If your closet also resides just off of your bathroom, these materials — or even tile or porcelain — will help protect against mold and mildew from the moisture, too.

You don't have to sacrifice comfort for style when you remove the carpet in your closets. In fact, by adding a small rug or even a runner rug for larger areas, you can still add a softer element that provides protection for the flooring. On top of this, rugs are usually easier to clean than installed carpet, so you can throw them in a washing machine every couple of weeks to remove all the dirt and dust. The fabric doesn't need to cover the whole floor — just enough to add a little grip and protect the material underneath. Since laminate wood flooring is one of the best options for the bedroom, it's a good choice for your closet, and paired with a rug, it can be just as cozy as a carpeted design.

Use shoe racks to elevate your shoes and make sweeping and mopping easier, and utilize shelves on the walls to make the most of vertical space. This will help keep your vinyl, laminate, or hardwood in good condition. Just by swapping this one element out, give your closet a stylish finish that will last whether you stay in that home or want to sell down the line. This is just one more perk of updating carpet.