Easily Organize Your Closet By Taking Advantage Of This Overlooked Real Estate

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We suspect, if studied, it would be revealed that closets actually prove to be miniature clutter magnets. Okay, maybe not, but keeping a closet tidy is a universal problem. But instead of throwing out your entire closet organizational system in frustration, try putting a rarely-used organizational space to work: your closet floor.

There are lots of tricks to organize your closet: the file fold to keep folded garments tidy, creating zones, and even turning your closet doors into extra storage. But when it comes to storage, the closet floor is rarely considered. In fact, it's usually covered in kicked-off shoes, dirty laundry, and garments that accidentally slipped off the hangers. But this underused space can actually house more than shoes and laundry. With the right storage solutions, it can actually help tackle the clutter.

But what are the right storage solutions? It comes down to two things: how much floor space is available and your preferred storage style. First, notice the shape of your closet. Is it the long, slim closet common in bedrooms or a smaller, square linen closet? Then, think about your preferred storage style. Do you like items tucked away in boxes or in open baskets? Would you rather have labeled or see-through storage? Yes, it might seem like an extra step when all you want to do is head to Target's storage aisle (no judgment), but taking a moment to figure out your space and preferences will help you create lasting organization that works.

Now that you know your preferences and space limitations, let's narrow down the right storage. For long, rectangular closet floors, we love a low shoe rack, like Kitsure Shoe Rack. Not only are they are a budget-friendly space-saving hack to make more room in your closet, but because they can easily store pretty much everything. For example, you can arrange your handbags on the top shelf, then line your shoes on the bottom rack. If you need storage for smaller items, like scarves, mittens, or whatever else is cluttering your closet, slide slim storage bins on each shelf so everything now has a home. The one downside of using a shoe rack is everything is out in the open. If you prefer closed storage, try a short chest of drawers, like BOLUO Stackable Storage Drawers.

If your closet has less floor space, don't worry: fabric storage boxes, like StorageWorks Fabric Storage Bins, are a clever solution to keep your closet organized. They tuck away everything from extra pillowcases to dog leashes, can stack on top of each other for even more storage, and can easily be labeled to find exactly what you're looking for. Want to make it easy to grab what you need? Place a big basket on the closet floor. This works especially well for bigger or bulkier items like extra sheet sets, towels, or blankets. Oh, and bonus? Rolling and stacking linens vertically in the basket creates an organized look.