How to Organize Closets on a Budget

Imagine opening up the closet door on an ice-cold winter's morning in search of the perfect thick sweater, wool coat, long scarf, warm hat and leather boots and not being able to find any of it. If that doesn't bother you, imagine opening up the linen closet in search of your favorite pillowcases and finding only one case and one sham. A messy closet can be tamed, even on a budget.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Hooks
• Storage bins
• Closet organizer
• Shoe rack
• Hangers

1. Start by putting inexpensive hooks over the top of your closet door. This allows extra space to hang clothes. These hooks come in plastic or metal and can be found at discount stores.

2. Use plastic storage bins to store purses, book bags, accessories and seasonal clothing. The bins come with lids and can be stacked on top of each other. You may find complete storage systems or units and small storage boxes in the same aisle. They can be purchased at Wal-Mart, Target, the Home Depot and other large retailers.

3. Organize your closet by adding a shelf. They help create more space in an unorganized closet and can be added from wall to wall, directly over the clothes rod.

4. Compare prices for complete closet organizing kits. Typically, the component is adjustable and can be easily installed to fit the entire closet. These kits usually have a place for hanging clothes and coats, storage for shoes, and shelves for folded shirts and pants. Most closet kits also have a space at the top for placing more folded clothes. You can purchase a fairly inexpensive closet organizer kit from the Home Depot or Lowe's.

5. Save space with shoe racks. Over-door shoe racks and tier shoe racks are great ways to organize your closet while leaving the floor free of clutter.

Tips & Warnings

• If you can't afford over-the-door hooks, securely install two screws 3 to 4 inches from the top of the closet door. Leave at least ¾ of an inch of space to hang a bath robe or a few articles of clothing. This is an effective way to organize if you are on an extremely tight budget. Do not throw away shoe boxes, unless you have a place for your shoes. Shoe boxes can be filled and placed neatly under the bed. The best way to organize a closet is to place the least-used items far away. For instance, tuck a sewing machine or carpet cleaner the farthest away. Price and purchase the following items if need be: Hangers Multidrawer cabinets Adjustable pants organizer