How to Organize a Coat Closet

As seasons come and go, a coat closet can serve not only as a storage space for jackets, parkas, raincoats and boots, but it often becomes a catch-all storage space because of its central location, or proximity to entrances. Make the most of your coat closet space with some simple organizational techniques.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Air freshener
• Hooks
• Vacuum
• Storage containers
• Hangers
• Shelves

1. Remove all items from the closet, allowing you to fully see what you're organizing and the space you're working with.

2. Assess your space to determine what items are a priority for a specific coat closet and focus on those items.

3. Don't reserve one small coat closet for storage of an entire family's collection of jackets, coats, scarves, umbrellas and similar items. Store items not being used frequently in separate closets and locations in other parts of the home.

4. Categorize outerwear into groups such as formal/informal, his/hers or kids/adult. Keep categories together, breaking down items between multiple closets if necessary.

5. Donate or sell any items adults or children have outgrown, leaving space for the items that are still in use.

6. Sweep, vacuum and clean everything in the closet, including the floor, shelves and corners.

7. Move remaining items back in, deliberately placing them in functional locations and in proper groups and categories.

Tips & Warnings

• During the holiday season, many communities have "Coats for Kids" programs and similar ones for adults and families. Such programs make it simple to find a new home for your lightly used outerwear.
• For added storage, look to the back side of your closet door. Hang hats, scarves and other items on easy-to-install hooks.
• Place an air freshener in your coat closet to keep items smelling fresh throughout the year.