Ways To Add Extra Storage & Maximize Your Closet Space

Tips To Transform Your Closet Into a Clutter-Free Haven

Have you ever dreamed of a bigger closet? Almost everyone has—but sometimes, all you need is a little help to maximize your space. Lucky for you, we’ve created a brief guide with useful tips for this!

Whether you’re dealing with a tiny wardrobe or just want better organization, you can make the most of your closet with these smart tricks. From shelving and dividers to custom-built solutions from an expert AZ cabinet designer, here’s how you can transform your closet into a clutter-free haven.

Storage solutions for a closet with organized shelves, hanging space, and baskets

1. Declutter Before You Organize

Before you even consider adding extra storage, start with this simple step: decluttering. 

Decluttering is key to maximizing storage, especially in closets. Simply put, it means getting rid of items you no longer wear or need.

A simple rule? If you haven’t used it in a year, donate or toss it.

If you find it hard to part with items (no judgment here!), professional organizers Briana and Erica Spruille, founders of Just BE, recommend shifting your perspective. Instead of focusing on what you’re letting go of, think of decluttering as creating space for the clothing you truly love.

Quick Decluttering Tips:

  • Separate clothes into “keep,” “donate,” and “toss” piles.
  • Use storage bins for seasonal clothes.
  • Invest in matching hangers to create a uniform look.

2. Use Vertical Space to Your Advantage

Most closets have unused space near the ceiling, which can be essential for additional storage. 

Many people think their closets have enough space by just focusing on the middle and upper sections of it, but in reality, they tend to forget the space near the ceiling. 

That’s why we recommend exploring how to use every last bit of space, and that includes the higher area. Be it floating shelves or extra hooks, you need to make the most of that area. 

Ideas To Maximize Vertical Storage:

  • Install Extra Shelves for shoes, handbags, or storage bins.
  • Use Hanging Organizers for sweaters and accessories.
  • Add Hooks Or Pegs for belts, scarves, or hats.

3. Invest in Custom Storage Solutions

If your closet feels like a lost cause, it might be time to bring in a cabinetmaker for a custom storage solution. They can design built-in shelves, drawers, and compartments that perfectly fit your needs.

Benefits Of Custom Closet Storage:

✔ Maximizes every inch of space.
✔ Tailored to your wardrobe and lifestyle.
✔ Increases home value with high-end finishes.

4. Double Your Hanging Space

A simple yet effective trick: add a second hanging rod. This instantly doubles your space for shirts, blouses, or pants. You can even use one rod for shorter items and the other for longer garments.

If your closet has only ‘short hanging’ and ‘long hanging’ sections, consider adding a ‘medium hanging’ section to maximize space. You can use this area for skirts, short dresses, and pants. 

In addition to this, remember to reassess your hanger collection. Get rid of broken or damaged hangers, and think efficiently. For example, it’s not practical to hang a thin silk blouse on a thick wood hanger; it’s much more useful to hang delicate clothing on small yet efficient hangers (like the classic velvet hangers). 

5. Add Slide-Out Baskets & Drawers

If you’re short on shelf space, slide-out baskets are a lifesaver. They’re perfect for storing:
✔ Socks and undergarments. 
✔ Workout clothes.
✔ Small accessories.

You can also get some closet organizers or drawers to make the most of your closet space. These items allow you to store folded items that you would regularly hang, including chunky sweaters and tops. 

6. Use The Back Of The Closet Door

The back of your closet door is valuable real estate. Hang an over-the-door organizer for shoes, jewelry, or beauty products.

Other Door Storage Ideas:

  • Install small shelves for perfumes & cosmetics.
  • Use pegboards for necklaces and hair accessories.

7. Get Creative With Shoe Storage

Shoes take up a lot of space, but clever storage can help. Just because you have a lot of sandals or flats doesn’t mean they don’t take up a lot of space if they’re all displayed on shelves. 

You can get a custom ‘double-deep’ solution to store one shoe in front and its pair directly behind, maximizing the depth of your closet space. This way, you keep your closet organized and clean while doubling your shoe storage. 

Here are some other tricks:
✔ Use a hanging shoe rack.
✔ Install a rotating shoe carousel.
✔ Add pull-out shelves built by a Cabinet Maker for a sleek look.

8. Use Clear Storage Bins For Easy Access

Clear bins let you see what’s inside without digging through clutter. They also help keep everything neat and organized.  

Best Ways To Use Clear Bins In Your Closet

  • Store Out-Of-Season Clothing: Keep summer or winter clothes in labeled bins and swap them out as needed.
  • Organize Accessories: Use small bins for belts, hats, gloves, or jewelry.
  • Tidy Up Shoes: Stackable bins keep shoes dust-free while maximizing space.
  • Create a Grab-and-Go System: Use bins for frequently used items like workout gear, making it easy to access them on busy mornings.

Pro Tip: 

Label your bins for even better organization. Use a label maker or write directly on the bin with a dry-erase marker to easily update it when needed.

9. Think Seasonally

Keep your wardrobe organized by rotating items based on the season. There’s no need to have Christmas sweaters taking up space in July! 

We also recommend relocating bulky items like coats to free up closet space. Keep coats in a designated coat closet, or store winter coats under the bed or on a hanging rack in the attic. 

Your closet should house the clothes you wear daily. Viewing it this way makes it easier to find a proper place for everything, ultimately creating more space.

10. Consider a Closet System Upgrade

If your closet is still a mess despite all efforts, a full custom closet system may be the answer. A professional cabinet maker can build a custom storage system with drawers, rods, and shelves that fit your exact needs.

Why Upgrade?

  • Increases storage efficiency.
  • Keeps everything organized and accessible.
  • Makes your closet feel like a high-end boutique.

Get Your Custom Closet With AZ Cabinet Maker

If you want a truly customized solution, consider working with a professional AZ cabinet designer. AZ Cabinet Maker specializes in creating high-quality, custom-built storage solutions to simplify your life. Whether you need built-in shelves, custom drawers, or a full closet makeover, our expert craftsmanship will help you maximize every inch of space.

Maximize your space with a custom-built closet! Contact us today for expert storage solutions tailored to your needs.

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AZ Cabinet Maker
640 N Alder Dr
Chandler, AZ 85226
Phone: 480.800.3512
Email: [email protected]