DIY A High-End Closet Storage System Using Affordable Dollar Tree Supplies

Organizing a closet is no easy task. You are dealing with clothes, shoes, bags, accessories, cleaning supplies, linens, coats, out-of-season items, and random clutter. No matter which closet you are attempting to organize, if you do not have a good enough closet organization system, you are bound to run into a bunch of small items that you will have to place randomly on a shelf or deep in a drawer or bin. With a proper organization system, you will be less likely to lose items, be able to see what you already own, and better use your existing space. Once you find out how a modular closet could change the way you think about organizing, you will likely want to find one that works for you. Unfortunately, purchasing a custom closet organization system can be prohibitively expensive for many people. If you are willing to put in some work, though, you can create a DIY organization system while sticking to your budget by using Dollar Tree items.

One style of DIY closet organization system involves securing a series of plastic crates in a configuration of your choice. Before you purchase supplies, consider the space you are working with and your storage needs, and record measurements so you know how much of each item you need to buy. For a smaller space, these mini collapsible storage baskets from Dollar Tree are a good example of the type of storage bins you will want for this project. They do not taper in at the bottom, so they will be easier to connect, but you can also look for different sizes and shapes. 

Along with the crates, you need E6000 glue, zip ties, spring clamps, and spray paint. Start by trying out different configurations of the crates before cleaning and drying them. You can do a horizontal row on top and bottom with two vertical columns of crates connecting them for a simple design. The open area in the middle can be used for hanging clothes. Or, get creative with a different crate configuration that fits your closet space and the items you want to store.

Then, you can begin gluing them together along the sides using E6000 glue. After applying glue to the side of one basket and sticking another one to it, ensure that they are perfectly lined up before using a spring clamp or two to hold them together while the glue dries. E6000 takes 24 hours to fully cure, so clamping the containers together is important. Leave the final connection spot of your configuration in an inconspicuous place, and use zip ties to connect the two baskets in that area. Once your base has been created, you can spray paint the whole project and enjoy your new closet shelving system, or you can make some upgrades.

The main upgrade is to create doors for some or all of the sections. This can be done using Dollar Tree picture frames and hinges. You simply find frames with similar dimensions to the opening of your containers, remove the back from the frames, glue hinges to both the frames and the containers, and spray paint the result. You can then glue the frame's glass back in place for a clear door or glue mesh over the opening for a unique look. Solid doors made from any material can also replace the frames.

Depending on the size and style of your containers and the particular configuration you choose, you might also be able to add a curtain rod and gain some extra hanging space. If you use large containers and leave an empty space in your configuration, you can either insert a rod through existing or created holes in your containers, glue a rod in place, or, if you plan to store only lightweight items, use a tension rod. On a smaller system, a thin rod could be used to store small, lightweight accessories like scarves or jewelry.

Another important part of customizing your DIY storage system is choosing the right spray paint color. For a cohesive look, spray paint your system in the same color as the interior of the closet. Closet interiors are often white to help the space look larger, brighter, and cleaner. The light color also makes it easier for you to find the items you need. Combine white spray paint with clever lighting tips that will make your small closet feel bigger, and your closet organization system should prevent you from losing items in your closet.

Overall, this DIY project can give you a more structured and intentional closet space that will help you keep your items and budget in order. While the plastic components might mean that it is not the most durable system, it is a great project for the price, and it is highly customizable. Just be sure to avoid the mistakes everyone makes when organizing their closet as you design and fill the organizer.