Maximize your small closet with smart, budget-friendly organization hacks
Last week's Modern Farmhouse Boho bedroom transformation was part of the One Room Challenge.
Our initial focus involved finding simple small closet organization ideas that we could execute ourselves, using materials already available to save on expense, time, and effort.
In just a few hours of effort, we managed to double the capacity for clothing storage.
These solutions for small closet organization not only utilize space efficiently but also enhance the aesthetic appeal!
Budget-Friendly Small Closet Organization Ideas DIY
Please note: This post includes affiliate links for your shopping convenience.
1. Implement stacked hanging shelves.
Initially, our closet featured a hanging rod and a shelf on both the left and right sides.
The first action taken was relocating both rods to one side and stacking them; this immediately created room for twice the storage in half the footprint!
My husband's trousers, suits, and shirts are placed on the higher closet rod, making them easily accessible to him.
All my hanging skirts, dresses, shirts, and pants fit neatly below, leaving ample floor space for shoe storage.
- These closet brackets support both a rod for hanging items and a shelf above it.
- User feedback highlights the product's reliable performance, simple operation, sturdiness, and overall quality for this popular closet mount bracket.
2. Install a high, narrow shelf for off-season footwear and scarves.
After precise measurements, we found room to add a shelf above the hanging bars, storing off-season shoes that won't be needed for six months; being 5 foot 2, I can reach this shelf using our 2-step step stool.
3. Utilize a small dresser for folded apparel storage.
With one entire side of the closet now clear, we began strategizing further storage; I reviewed Ikea's closet organization systems and admired their drawer options, making the small dresser we moved from next to the bed a perfect (free) fit.
Which items should be hung versus folded?
While many garments can be hung, I prefer having drawer storage for some items too; the decision of what to hang and what to fold is entirely personal. However, it is advised to fold certain clothing items that might stretch when suspended:
- sweaters
- T-shirts and sweat suits are great for everyday wear
- Undergarments, socks, and pajamas are also essential items
Certain garments drape beautifully
- Coats, Suit Jackets, and blazers hang well
- Blouses maintain their shape nicely
- Dresses look elegant when hung
- Skirts drape attractively
- Dress pants and capris are good hanging choices
Next, incorporate shelves to boost small closet storage capacity
We added three straightforward shelves using brackets previously bought at Ikea above the dresser to utilize extra space
A guide on installing shelves in a compact closet
- Determine your closet width and cut a 2 x 10 board to match that measurement
- Apply paint or stain to the board; ours received a semi-gloss finish using Simply White from Benjamin Moore
- Mount one bracket (our brackets are 7.5 inches deep) at your desired shelf height; if screws miss a wall stud, utilize drywall anchors for secure holding
- Rest the shelf on the first bracket, use a level to ensure it is even, then mark the position for the second bracket, attaching it with drywall screws
- Fasten the shelf to the bracket by driving a screw through the top of the bracket into the bottom of the shelf
Browse shelf brackets suitable for closets
- The black shelf bracket listed here is a top seller, garnering many positive customer reviews; buyers appreciate the simple setup, value, storage capacity, and look of the mount, noting its ease of use, versatility, and load-bearing ability, alongside its quality and appearance
For more shelf setup guidance, review our fixer upper farmhouse shelves or the DIY floating shelves with dowels
Fifth, employ baskets for storing clothing not in season
While folding off-season clothes on shelves is possible, matching baskets prevent the space from appearing messy; I used chalkboard tags from the Dollar Store for labeling
If space is extremely limited, consider compression packing cubes—a fantastic space-saving trick; place off-season items inside, zip to expel air, and the space savings are significant; they are great for travel too, but perfect for a small closet when not on the road
Find baskets for shelving and clothing storage
This hamper collection appears excellent; reviewers praise its quality, look, versatility, size, and value, noting they are durable and attractive.
Before making a purchase, always measure your available area and confirm dimensions, as images can misrepresent actual size.
Place a jewelry station on the dresser surface.
After trying various jewelry storage methods, this approach suits me best; trays lined with soft felt are ideal for organizing earring and bracelet pairs.
A jewelry tree is useful for displaying rings and hoop earrings; see a comparable jewelry tree here.
Suspend long necklaces and belts using wall hooks.
The struggle with tangled necklaces is frustrating; simple wall hooks resolve this issue easily.
We are delighted with our newly organized closet; it operates wonderfully, eliminating morning searches for needed items!
Next week, I will share details about that gorgeous new feature wall color…
Here is the expense and necessary supplies list for this small closet organization system:
Since we aimed to utilize existing materials, much of what we needed was already owned, making the project nearly free! The cost breakdown is as follows:
- For the walls and shelves, we selected Simply White by Benjamin Moore paint, using leftover paint from prior tasks.
- We acquired 3 – 2x 10 boards for shelving; we had enough for 2 already, purchasing wood (with leftovers) for the third shelf at $14.00 for 8 feet.
- Six shelf brackets, similar to these, were needed; we already possessed them from Ikea.
- Four wicker baskets, bought on a local sale for $5 each, totaling $20; similar options are available here.
The total expenditure was $34.
Discovering more ways to organize a small closet:
- Employ space-saving hanger solutions like these to maximize clothing storage within the existing area.
- If building shelves isn't preferred, track shelving units offer a customizable option fitting your closet dimensions.
- Utilize units placed behind the closet door, depending on your door type, to store more items or shoes.
- For dark closets, consider installing LED lighting beneath the shelves to enhance visibility.
This content is part of the One Room Challenge, hosted by Linda from Calling it Home and Better Homes and Gardens.
For the upcoming eight-week period, I will be sharing weekly updates regarding our Modern Farmhouse Boho Bedroom Makeover. To review all prior entries for this cost-effective room transformation, please follow the link provided:
- Featured Walls in Black for Bedrooms
- Schematics for the Modern Farmhouse Boho Master Bedroom Makeover
Visit the One Room Challenge platform to view the diverse array of room makeovers currently in progress. It is truly inspiring to witness spaces undergo transformation!
Do you require assistance with organizing your living space?
