Smart Storage Solutions: Closet Systems for Small Spaces

Frank Erardi • Dec 27, 2023

In the course of my time working with homeowners to minimize their household clutter, I’ve encountered my fair share of small closet spaces. These pose a challenge to the people trying to fit too many belongings into a space that isn’t optimized for the job. However, with the right tools, your cramped closet systems can be transformed into the well-organized haven of your dreams.

Here are some of the ways my team and I often work with small closet systems:

Make the most of vertical space
Take advantage of adjustable components
Use pull-out accessories
Double-hang clothing rods

If you’ve got a small closet system you’re hoping to overhaul, keep reading for some of my best suggestions.

Make the Most of Vertical Space

When dealing with a small closet without a lot of floor space, you’ll want to think vertical. Custom shelving units can reach up as high as the ceiling, which is likely overkill. Still, you can use shelves that are higher than average; use a stepstool in the closet or ask about pull-down options.

Using wall space is an excellent way to maximize the available storage, and wall-based organizers can be used on any wall of the closet; they can also sometimes be used on the closet door. For example, hooks give you a place to store scarves, purses, and other accessories. Wall-mounted racks are great for hanging items that you wouldn’t normally be able to put on a hanger, such as belts or ties.

Of course, mirrors attached to the doors or the walls of the closet are a great way to not only use some of your vertical space but also make the closet appear larger – thanks to reflecting light. House Beautiful recommends putting mirrors on the doors to boost both function and style, and they also have other good organization tips to recommend.

Take Advantage of Adjustable Components

When you have a small closet, you need to give yourself every chance to make the space adaptable and versatile. One way is to use as many adjustable components as make sense for your situation.

For example, you may need a different closet setup in the winter than you do in the summer. Being able to adjust your shelves can give you more room for sweaters and jeans when you need them; then, in the summer, you could remove a shelf, add a hanging rod, or otherwise make the closet more amenable to holding a hot-weather wardrobe.

Hanging rods can also be moved depending on your needs. Move a rod down in a child’s closet to make it easier for them to reach, then move it up as they grow. This cuts down on wasted space, which is vital when dealing with small spaces.

Use Pull-Out Accessories

In any closet, there’s often more than meets the eye. Sure, you see clothing hanging neatly on rods and the drawers and shelves, but did you know that many custom closet systems also have pull-out accessories that push back out of the way when they’re not being used? These allow you to save on space when you aren’t using the components or accessories.

A telescoping valet rod can hold your outfit for the day, then it pushes right back in, so it’s not blocking your access to necessary items later. You can pull out a mirror, an ironing board, and even your shoe rack – allowing you to use what you need before pushing it back into place.

Double-Hang Clothing Rods

One of my best tips for literally doubling your storage potential is installing two hanging rods. Your existing rod would be moved up a little higher, then a second rod installed a few feet underneath. This allows you to store twice the number of separates you’re currently storing. You can hang your tops on the top rod and bottoms on the lower rod.

This might be a good strategy for the entire closet, or you might choose to only do it for either the left or right side – leaving the other side with just one rod for longer items, such as dresses, coats, suits, or pants hung by their cuffs. It really depends on exactly what type of wardrobe you have and the types of clothing you wear most often.

Conclusion

I enjoy the challenge of fitting everything a homeowner needs into their small closet system, and I have a lot of suggestions to make it easier. Using the wall space, installing adjustable shelving, remembering to use pull-out accessories, and double-hanging the clothing rods are just a handful. Talk to me or a member of my team about how we can best help you make the most of your small space.