my-la-closet

Creating a Custom Kids’ Closet for Your Child’s Changing Needs

Mon, 12 Aug 2024 18:47:32 GMT

Imagine walking into your child's room and finding everything perfectly organized – from their favorite toys to their ever-growing collection of clothes. Sounds like a dream, right? With a custom kids' closet built by my team, this dream can become a reality. A well-designed closet can adapt to your child's changing needs – making it easier to keep their room tidy and functional as they grow.

When I work with families, there are several considerations I go through to make sure I’m meeting everyone’s needs with their kids’ closet system:

Assess the current and future needs
Plan the closet layout
Choose the right materials
Incorporate functional accessories
Design for both accessibility and safety
Add personalization
Involve the child in the process
Plan for maintaining the closet over time

At My LA Closet, we specialize in crafting personalized storage solutions that cater to each family's unique needs. With our expertise, you can count on us to design a custom kids' closet that is both stylish and functional now and for the years to come.

Ready to explore the world of custom kids' closets? Let's explore how we can work together to design a space that grows with your child and makes your life a little easier.

Assessing Current and Future Needs

The first step in creating a custom kids' closet is taking a closer look at both your current and future needs. We want to make sure the closet remains functional over time, and that means it should work for your child now and also a decade or more into the future.

Take an inventory of what your child is currently using. This includes clothing, shoes, toys, and anything else they’re keeping in the closet. Take a look at what they actually use, and remove the things they’re no longer using. This will help you decide what types of components you need now.

Next, consider the future. As children grow, their needs change. Clothes get larger, and they start becoming interested in different hobbies and trends. For example, younger children may need more space for toys and dress-up clothes, while older kids may want more shelving for books and school supplies. Teens will have hobbies ranging from cheerleading to music, and your child will need space for these types of items when the time comes.

Planning the Closet Layout

A well-thought-out layout is important if you want to make the most of the space and create a design that will grow along with your little one. Here are some tips for planning the perfect closet layout:

Maximize Vertical Space: Take advantage of the full height of the closet by installing hanging rods at different heights. When your child is young, they’ll use the lower rods, but when they get older, those higher rods will come into play. You can also use shelves above the rods that are currently being used.
Adjustable Shelving: Install adjustable shelves that can be moved as needed. You’ll be able to make the closet adjust to your child’s current needs and height without having to overhaul the entire thing.
Drawers: Include drawers for storing smaller items, like socks, underwear, and accessories. Drawers help keep these items organized and easily accessible.
Pull-Out Bins: Use pull-out bins for toys and larger items. These bins make it easy for young children to reach their belongings and put them away all by themselves.
Hooks and Pegs: Put hooks and pegs on the inside of the closet doors or unused wall space. These are perfect for hanging hats, bags, scarves, and other accessories.

Choosing the Right Materials and Finishes

When we work on your child’s closet, we’ll make some decisions together about the materials and finishes we use to keep the closet looking great and your child safe. Here are some considerations to keep in mind:

Durability: Kids can be tough on their belongings, so choose materials that can stand up to wear and tear. Solid wood, laminate, and high-quality MDF are good options for shelving and drawer units.
Safety: Safety should always be a priority in a child's room. Choose non-toxic finishes and paints to keep little ones healthy. Keep in mind that small children often put their hands and other belongings in their mouths. Additionally, consider materials with rounded edges to prevent injuries. All of our kids’ closets are mounted tightly to the wall to prevent tip-over accidents.
Easy Maintenance: Kids' closets should be easy to clean and maintain. Choose finishes that are stain-resistant and easy to wipe down. Stay away from materials that require special care or are prone to damage.
Aesthetics: While functionality is likely your top priority, don’t overlook kid-friendliness and appeal. Pick finishes and colors that complement the overall design of the room. It’s best to pick neutral colors, so you can update the closet with accessories in your child’s favorite color since it’s likely to change over time.

Incorporating Functional Accessories

Accessories can make your kids’ closets more functional and easy to use. Here are some accessories to think about adding:

Bins and Baskets: Use bins and baskets to organize toys, clothes, and other items. Label them, and encourage kids to put things back where they belong.
Shoe Racks: Install shoe racks to keep your child's footwear organized and off the floor. Adjustable shoe racks can accommodate different sizes as your child grows, and you can always add more shoe fences or racks as their shoe collection grows.
Hanging Organizers: Hanging organizers with pockets are perfect for storing small items, like accessories, art supplies, and even shoes. They can be hung on closet rods or doors.
Dividers: Shelf dividers help keep stacks of clothes neat and prevent them from toppling over. They are especially useful for younger children who may not be as careful when putting things away, but even teens will appreciate the ease of keeping their shelves neat.
Specialized Storage: Consider adding specialized storage for items, like sports equipment, musical instruments, or craft supplies. Custom storage solutions can be designed to fit these specific needs.

Designing for Accessibility and Safety

When designing a custom kids' closet, accessibility and safety are important. Here are some tips:

Child-Friendly Heights: Place shelves, rods, and hooks at reachable heights for your child. This will encourage your little ones to put their things away by themselves, and it will also keep the closet neater.
Rounded Edges: Opt for furniture and accessories with rounded edges to prevent bumps and bruises from sharp corners.
Anti-Tip Devices: Secure larger pieces of furniture, like drawer units and shelves, to the wall with anti-tip devices. This prevents accidents caused by furniture tipping over, which can cause severe injuries. Here are some tips from Healthy Children on preventing these types of accidents.
Sturdy Hardware: Use high-quality hardware that can withstand daily use. Make sure that handles and knobs are securely attached and easy for small hands to grasp. If your children are very small, you might decide to use locks and latches to keep cabinets and other spaces inaccessible if you’re storing small items that can be choked on.

Personalizing the Closet

A custom kids' closet should reflect your child's personality and interests. Making the closet appealing to your child helps them to take pride in their space. Here are some ideas:

Color Schemes: Choose a color scheme that your child loves. This could be their favorite colors or shades that match the room's decor. You can use paint, wallpaper, or fun accessories to add color to the closet.
Themes: Consider adding a theme that makes your child smile. Whether it's superheroes, animals, or outer space, a themed closet can make the space more fun and inviting.
Custom Labels: Use custom labels or decals to identify different storage areas. Labels can add a personal touch to the closet while also making it easier to know where everything goes.
Artwork and Photos : Display your child's artwork or photos inside the closet. This personal touch makes the space feel uniquely theirs.

Involving Your Child in the Process

Involving your child in the design process can make sure the closet meets their needs and also fosters a sense of pride and responsibility. Here are some tips for working with your child:

Ask for Input: Encourage your child to share their ideas, likes, and dislikes. Ask about colors, themes, and specific storage needs.
Decision-Making: Allow your child to make decisions about certain aspects of the closet, such as the placement of shelves or the choice of accessories. Remember that these things can always be changed later if the closet is adjustable.
Interactive Design: Use interactive design tools or apps to visualize different layout options. This can help your child understand the design process and feel more involved.
Hands-On Involvement: Involve your child in organizing and decorating the closet. This can be a fun and educational activity that teaches them about organization and responsibility.

Maintaining the Closet Over Time

A custom closet is a long-term investment that requires regular maintenance, just like any other space in your home that’s used frequently. Here are some tips for keeping the closet in great shape year after year:

Regular Decluttering: Periodically go through the closet with your child to remove items that are no longer needed. When you switch the clothes over each season is a great time to do this and ensures it’s happening at least twice per year. This keeps the closet organized and prevents it from becoming overcrowded.
Organizing Sessions: Schedule regular organizing sessions to ensure everything is in its place. You can pair this with the decluttering sessions, or you might want to do it before your child’s birthday, before school starts, or before major holidays to prepare for any new items that will be going in the closet.
Adjusting the Layout: As your child's needs change, adjust the layout and storage solutions, so they always suit your child. This may involve moving shelves, adding new accessories, or reconfiguring the space.
Cleaning and Maintenance: Clean the closet regularly to keep it in good condition. Wipe down surfaces, vacuum the floor, and check for any damage that needs repair.

Conclusion

Creating a custom kids' closet that adapts to your child's changing needs can seem like a big task, but it will pay off in the long run. I’ve given you lots of tips for designing your child’s dream closet. You don’t have to do it alone, though! My LA Closet is here to help. With our expertise and dedication to personalized storage solutions, we can design a closet that meets your child's needs and reflects their unique personality. Contact us today to get started.

Source

https://www.healthychildren.org/English/safety-prevention/at-home/Pages/Preventing-Furniture-and-TV-Tip-Overs.aspx

How to Transform Your Reach-In Closet on a Budget

Wed, 19 Jun 2024 17:33:46 GMT

As with everything else, home renovations have become more expensive in recent years. It can be frustrating to know that you want to complete various projects around the house while being held back by a lack of funds. When it comes to your reach-in closets , however, I have some tips on transforming them on a budget. I have been upgrading storage spaces in the L.A. area for a decade now, and I have some great tips for you to get started on maximizing the space in your reach-in closet.

Here are the steps you should take in order to make the most of your small closet space:

Declutter and assess
Utilize affordable storage solutions
Maximize vertical space
Incorporate multi-functional accessories
Keep it simple and consistent

At My LA closet, we’re very familiar with not only our clientele but also the home layouts in the area. We take great pride in helping homeowners just like you improve their storage spaces. If you’re struggling to get your closet in shape, we encourage you to contact us, so we can talk about budget-friendly options.

In this article, we’ll be talking about the measures you can take to upgrade and update your reach-in closet system. If you’re ready to get started, read on!

Declutter and Assess

Before you begin your reach-in closet transformation, you should take a look at what you have in your closet. According to Shop Your Closet , most of us wear under 30 percent of our wardrobes. Now, I’m not suggesting that you purge nearly three-quarters of your clothing! However, it makes sense to take everything out of the closet and really take a good look at how much you’re storing and ask yourself if it’s all really needed.

Benefits of decluttering:

Creating more space: By removing items you no longer use, you’ll find that your closet is more functional and less cramped.
Reducing clutter: If you’re not using something in your home, then by its very nature, it’s clutter. Those shoes you haven’t taken out of their box in 10 years? They’re just collecting dust, and your closet will be neater without them.
Easier organization: The fewer items you have, the easier it will be to keep your belongings organized.

Tips for implementation:

Set aside time: Taking everything out of your closet and going through it isn’t a project you can accomplish while also doing your daily chores and attending to your responsibilities. Designate a full afternoon or even a full day to work on this.
Sort items into categories: Group similar items together (shirts with shirts, shoes with shoes) and have a box ready to fill for things you’d like to donate.
Assess each item honestly: Look at each piece of clothing or accessory, and ask yourself if you use it and if you really like it. If not, into the donation box it goes! The exception here might be highly nostalgic items or outfits you only wear on special occasions, such as weddings.

How a professional can help:

At My L.A. Closet, we provide a free consultation. While we can’t go through your items for you, we can give you some tips on decluttering. If you need additional expertise, you might consider hiring a professional organizer, who will actually go through the process with you of going through your clothing, shoes, jewelry, and other wardrobe essentials.

Utilize Affordable Storage Solutions

There are plenty of affordable ways you can store your items. Some examples are bins, baskets, and hanging organizers. They’re practical, easy to use, and also easy to find if you’re DIY-ing your reach-in closet system.

Benefits of using affordable storage solutions:

Cost savings: Affordable storage solutions can allow you to organize your closet without a significant financial investment.
Improved organization: Using bins, baskets, hanging organizers, and other budget-friendly closet accessories can help you reduce clutter – allowing you to find what you need when you need it.
Versatility: Inexpensive storage solutions are versatile and can be used for a variety of items. If your tastes or wardrobe necessities change over time, you’ll still be able to use the same organizers.

Tips for implementation:

Measure your space: You’ll want to know how much room you have to hold your new closet organizers, so you don’t over- or underbuy.
Label anything that isn’t transparent: If you’re using clear bins or hanging organizers with clear pockets, you can see what’s inside. Otherwise, though, consider labeling each section, so you know where your items are.
Choose high-quality materials: If you can avoid it, don’t settle for the most inexpensive organizers, as these are more likely to break over time. You want durable materials that will stand up to everyday use.

How a professional can help:

While affordable closet components that you buy and install yourself can enhance your closet’s overall organization, professional closet specialists, like the ones at My LA Closet, can provide more customized options that are tailored to your specific needs. You won’t have to figure it all out on your own, as the measuring and planning will be done for you.

Maximize Vertical Space

While you might be focused on the horizontal surfaces in your closet, such as the shelves and drawers, it’s equally important to consider the vertical space. By using the full height of your closet, you can create more storage opportunities and keep your items easy to access. This is particularly important in a reach-in closet, where space is limited to begin with.

Benefits of maximizing vertical space:

Increased storage ability: Using vertical space frees up floor space, gives you more options for storing your items, and makes your closet more functional overall.
Better organization: By arranging items vertically, you’ll be able to keep your belongings from crowding each other – making it easier to see and organize each section of the closet.
Increased accessibility: Keeping frequently used items in the middle of your closet and placing items you don’t use as much overhead or down by the floor makes it easier to reach what you’re more likely to be using on any given day.

Tips for implementation:

Use stackable bins: Stackable bins let you store items going up the wall, and you can take advantage of your closet’s full height -- or at least as high as you can reach. Consider storing shoes, accessories, and other small items in these bins.
Install hanging shelves: Hanging shelves can be used to open up more space – allowing you to store folded clothes without crowding your hanging rods.
Use high shelves: The high shelves might seem inconvenient, but if you’re using them for out-of-season clothing or seldom-used outfits and shoes, you won’t need to access the area very often. Keep a step-stool in the closet to make accessibility easier.

How a professional can help:

Our design professionals can offer you expert advice on how to best use the vertical space in your closet. We have the experience and knowledge to design customized solutions that make the most of all of your space. We’re happy to talk about how we can maximize your reach-in closet during a free in-home consultation.

Incorporate Multi-Functional Accessories

Using accessories that are multi-functional is a great way to save space and improve your closet’s organization. Various accessories that can perform more than one function, such as over-the-door racks or storage benches, offer you a lot of versatility in your closet, so you’ll be able to keep up with it as your wardrobe evolves over time.

Benefits of incorporating multi-functional accessories:

Versatility: One of the best aspects of using multi-functional accessories is that they can be used in a variety of different ways – letting you adapt your custom closet system to your changing needs.
Space-saving option: You’ll be able to make the most of your closet space by choosing accessories that can do double-duty.
Cost-effectiveness: When you can combine functions into one product, you won’t need to purchase multiple single-function accessories – saving you money in the long run.

Tips for implementation:

Use over-the-door racks with hooks and baskets: These racks can provide storage for items, like hair accessories, socks, and shoes, and they take advantage of the back of the door, which is often overlooked.
Combine a shoe rack and storage bench: A shoe rack that doubles as a bench gives you a place to sit down while putting on your shoes.
Try hanging organizers with multiple pockets: If you have pockets on your hanging organizers, you can store a wide range of items – keeping everything accessible and easy to see.

How a professional can help:

Our professional closet designers have the expertise needed to recommend some of the best multi-functional accessories based on your specific needs. We provide creative solutions that you might not have considered. The result will be a well-organized, efficient closet that exceeds your expectations.

Keep It Simple and Consistent

One of the best ways to maintain your closet’s organization is to keep it simple and consistent. The goal is to keep your space clutter-free and fully-functional, so taking a straightforward approach will make it easier to keep up with it. I recommend keeping your routines practical to make them easier to stick to over time.

Benefits of keeping it simple and consistent:

Ease of maintenance: Simple organizational systems are easier to keep tidy – reducing the amount of time and effort you’ll need to expend on maintenance.
Long-term organization: Staying consistent with your system will help ensure your closet stays organized over the long term.
Less clutter: If you keep on top of your closet maintenance, you’ll have less clutter accumulating over time.

Tips for implementation:

Stick to a color scheme: Use a consistent color scheme for bins, hangers, and even your clothing to create a cohesive look and make the closet look and feel more organized.
Declutter regularly: Set aside time each week to tidy up your closet and each month to take out items that are no longer needed. This will help minimize the seasonal stress of doing a full wardrobe overhaul.
Limit your storage options: When you have too much going on, it’s easy to get overwhelmed. Avoid overcomplicating your closet by sticking to the most versatile and essential items to keep it simple.

How a professional can help:

My team can create simple and effective closet systems tailored to your specific needs. We can design streamlined solutions for any challenge, and we’re able to match our approach to your lifestyle, preferences, and even decorating style.

Conclusion

Transforming your reach-in closet on a budget is achievable with the right strategies. When you start with decluttering and then slowly add in organizers that take advantage of vertical space, multi-functional accessories, and a streamlined plan for keeping your space in good condition, you’ll be able to create a closet that meets your needs and looks great. If you would like to meet with a member of my design team, give us a call to schedule a free in-home consultation.

Source

https://shopyourwardrobe.com/shopping-clothes-emotions/how-much-do-you-wear-and-waste/

Closet Organization Hacks for Common Walk-In Closet Problems

Wed, 24 Apr 2024 14:40:06 GMT

Many of my clients find having a walk-in closet to be a dream come true – it gives them the space and solutions needed to tackle some common problems. I’ve compiled a list of these frequently seen closet woes as well as some of my best advice for handling them within your walk-in closet.

In this article, we’ll go over some of my best closet hacks:

Take control of your footwear
Tame your tangled jewelry
Sort your small accessories
Un-cramp your clothing

Let’s get started! Before you know it, you’ll be enjoying a clutter-free walk-in closet.

Take Control of Your Footwear

If you have piles of shoes cluttering up your closet floor, you are not alone. You might find it difficult to find a matching pair of shoes, and even if the rest of the closet is in good order, having shoes scattered around on the floor makes the space look unkempt.

The best way to keep your shoes organized is to first go through them and see which pairs you are actually wearing. Many people have shoes that they haven’t worn in years or even decades. Purge these if you can. If you are still wearing them occasionally or they’re for special occasions, consider putting them in labeled bins or under the bed in storage containers to keep them out of the way and dust free but still accessible.

The shoes that are part of your regular wardrobe should be on a shoe rack of some sort. We have several options to choose from at My LA Closet.

Tame Your Tangled Jewelry

If you have a collection of jewelry, whether it’s valuable or costume, you may experience tangled necklaces, jumbled bracelets, and lost earrings. Even if the pieces aren’t expensive, this is frustrating, particularly when you’re trying to get ready in the morning.

We have jewelry organizers, trays, and drawers that will keep your pieces in order. A velvet or satin lining will prevent tangling, and having a dedicated place to put your jewelry will keep everything in one place – reducing loss and breakage.

Sort Your Small Accessories

Items, like socks, ties, and belts, are important to your outfits, but it can be a challenge to keep them in good order. Ties and belts often slide to the floor if hung or become uncoiled or wrinkled if put in a drawer.

The answer here is to find smaller organizers for these items. We carry tie and belt racks that will keep them in place and won’t allow them to end up in a pile on the floor. Drawers built into the custom closet system will give you plenty of space for socks. You can also use labeled bins for these items; just make sure you know where you’re storing each item, so you’ll know exactly where to look.

Un-Cramp Your Clothing

When you have too much clothing on your hanging rods, everything gets crushed and can become damaged. You may not be able to find what you’re looking for, and buttons and zippers can get snagged on adjacent items.

First, prevent overcrowding by purging unworn clothing. This can be a drawn-out process; it’s best to work on it when you’re rotating your clothes for the seasons. Once you have pared down your wardrobe to what you’re wearing currently, use two rods, one below the other, to store your separates. This doubles your hanging space and lets you leave plenty of room between each item, so the fabric can breathe, and you can see what you’re looking at.

Reader’s Digest has some great tips on how to organize your closet, including the best way to arrange your clothing, how to fold clothes well, tips on hanging them well, and other space-saving techniques.

Conclusion

Using space-saving hacks to keep your walk-in closet in good condition is something my team and I specialize in! We’d be happy to come to your home and take a look at what you’re storing to provide even more tips and tricks. We’ll also create a free 3D design of your ideal closet, so you can decide whether you’d like to invest in a new closet system. Please reach out to us anytime to learn more and to schedule a free in-home consultation with a professional closet designer.

Source

https://www.rd.com/article/how-to-organize-your-closets/

Clever Custom Closet Space-Saving Hacks You Need to Know

Wed, 14 Feb 2024 15:06:44 GMT

In my line of work as a home organization professional, I’ve seen a lot of people struggle when it comes to finding enough space in their custom closet . Whether the closet in question is a small reach-in or a large walk-in, the items stored tend to expand to fill the space – making it difficult to make the most of every inch. I have the tips and tricks you need to transform your cluttered closets into streamlined works of art.

Here are some of the ways you can improve the storage in your custom closet system:

Double your hanging space
Incorporate pull-out accessories
Choose the right hangers
Use the inside of cabinet and closet doors

If you’re ready to make the most of your closet space, keep reading, as I’ll expand on these ideas further.

Double Your Hanging Space

If you have one hanging rod in your closet, you might notice lots of space below it. This is particularly true if you’re hanging mostly separates; if you have dresses, full suits, or other long items, it won’t be the case. I have found that most people do have a large number of separates to hang, so adding a second clothing rod can effectively double your hanging space.

The way I like to do this is to raise the current rod a bit, depending on the height of the person or people using the closet. Remember, in a custom closet system, everything is built to order, so your height is a consideration! Then I’ll install the lower rod a few feet below the top one. This allows for plenty of clearance under both rods.

You can hang tops on the top rod and bottoms on the bottom, or you might choose to hang one partner’s clothing on top and the other’s on the bottom. Do whatever works best for your specific situation.

Incorporate Pull-Out Accessories

Another way to save space in your custom closet is to install accessories that pull, fold, or telescope out as needed. I like these a lot, as they aren’t really visible unless they’re being used, so it cuts down on visual clutter in the closet.

One example of this type of accessory is the telescoping valet rod. When it’s not in use, it folds into itself and doesn’t catch your eye. When you want to hang a particular outfit, say, for work the next day or for a special occasion coming up in the next few days, you simply pull out the rod, and it will be ready to hold your clothes. When you’ve put on the outfit, simply slide the rod back into place.

Other examples include slide-out mirrors, fold-down ironing boards, and pull-out hampers. All of these have their place in the closet when they’re being used, but when they’re not, there’s no reason for them to stick out and take up space.

Choose the Right Hangers

Something many of my clients forget about is choosing the right hangers. You can get hangers for your clothes in a wide range of sizes and styles; you might look for large wooden hangers for a heavy coat or padded hangers for delicates.

If you’re trying to save space in your closet, consider slimline hangers. These come in a variety of materials, so you will be able to find slim wooden hangers, non-slip velvet hangers, and low-profile plastic hangers. If your clothes are small, you may even be able to get away with kids’ hangers, which take up even less room.

Better Homes & Gardens has a piece on choosing the right hangers, and they include links to where you can buy them.

Use the Inside of Cabinet and Closet Doors

While your closet comes with a set amount of floor space, incorporating various accessories can help you make the most of vertical space. Using both the back of the closet door and also the insides of opaque cabinet doors within the closet opens up storage space you might not have thought of.

If you have a typical non-folding closet door, you can use a rack or organizer to maximize your storage space. Think about adding storage for shoes, belts, scarves, and other accessories.

I often install cabinets in custom closets, and these also offer additional storage potential just inside the doors. Small items, like jewelry or neckties, can be arranged on the inside of the cabinet doors. Simply install hooks inside the doors to hold these smaller belongings.

You could also install a whiteboard or cork board for reminders or even your paper calendar. While these aren’t traditionally stored in the closet, you’re in there every morning getting dressed anyway, so it might make sense to use that time to remind yourself of what you need to do that day.

Conclusion

By looking carefully at ways to maximize space in your closet, you’ll be able to store more items and minimize clutter both in the closet and in the rest of the room. My team is always standing by to help. Give us a call if you’d like to schedule a free consultation to learn more about how custom closet systems can work for you.

Source

https://www.bhg.com/best-clothes-hangers-7501841

New Year, Fresh Space: Start the Year with a Neat Custom Closet

Mon, 18 Dec 2023 14:15:16 GMT

As a home organization professional, I often find I’m quite busy around the start of the new year. Why? This time of year always brings about a surge of enthusiasm and motivation to create fresh, organized spaces. My clients often set a resolution to “get organized” or “clean out the closets,” and they’re eager to purge clutter once and for all. If you’ve got a space that needs some organization, I’ve got some custom closet organization tips that will help.

To achieve the neat and tidy home of your dreams, here are the steps I recommend you follow:

Assess and purge your closet system
Group remaining items by category
Invest in custom closet organizers
Plan for seasonal rotation

If you’re ready to start the new year off on the right foot, organizationally speaking, let’s begin!

Assess and Purge Your Closet System

The first thing you’re going to need to do if you want to take control of your closet in the new year is to empty everything from the space. Just pile it up on your bed or anywhere else in the bedroom. Once everything is out, give the closet a quick vacuum and dust, then direct your attention to the pile of clothes, shoes, and other items you’ve pulled out.

Briefly pick up each item and decide if you need or want it. Some items will be easy to discard or donate. If you haven’t worn it in a few years, if it doesn’t fit, or if you have always hated it, just let it go. Other items might take a little more time to think about. You can set up a “maybe” pile to go through later, if needed. Just don’t let it get too big! Most items need to be in either the “keep” or the “discard” pile.

Group Remaining Items by Category

Once you know what you’re keeping in the closet, sort them by category. You can put all of your tops together and all of your bottoms together, then separate them from there. Put blouses in one pile, t-shirts in another, and sweaters in a third. For your bottoms, you might put jeans in one category, work pants in another, capris in a third, and shorts in a fourth.

Now, decide where each of these items will go in your closet. Many of my clients like to hang tops on a top rack and bottoms on a bottom rack, but others like to do the opposite. If you have dresses, pants hung by their cuffs, or long jackets, you will need to put those on a top rack with nothing below it. InStyle discusses ways to style the closet as you put items away – using neutrals and colors strategically.

Some items, of course, will need to be folded. Sweaters are a prime example; jeans and t-shirts can also be folded if desired. Use your closet drawer space or shelves. If you don’t have enough room for these items in the closet space, you may need to add a chest of drawers to your bedroom or invest in under-the-bed drawers.

Invest in Custom Closet Organizers

Once all of your clothes are hung up or put in drawers, you’ll likely still have an impressive pile of belts, shoes, jewelry, and other various wardrobe accessories. This is where closet organizers come in.

My team can make recommendations based on what you’re storing, but some popular closet organizers include shoe racks, valet rods, tie and belt racks, a jewelry drawer, and hooks to make the most of the wall space. Look at what you have to store, then decide from there which additional storage pieces you need. Call my team, and we’ll help you out.

Plan for Seasonal Rotation

Depending on the size of your closet and the size of your wardrobe, you may want to rotate your clothing seasonally. By taking a portion of your clothing out of the closet, this will give all of your items a little more breathing room and will make getting ready and finding what you need simpler.

I recommend leaving quite a few items as both winter and summer options since the weather here in the L.A. area is so mild. You probably won’t be wearing any heavy sweaters, scarves, or boots in the summer, though, and your sundresses and sleeveless tops won’t get much use over the winter, usually. It might help to mark target switchover dates on your next year’s calendar now. You may also want to read up on good storage practices for seasonal clothing. The Spruce has some good tips to consider.

Conclusion

Having a streamlined and stylish custom closet system for the coming new year can be your new reality if you just take a few steps to get it organized toward the beginning of the year. Remember to keep up with regular maintenance; in between your seasonal wardrobe switches, I recommend weekly straightening and monthly dusting and purging as needed. Happy New Year to you, and I look forward to sharing more tips in the coming months.

Sources

Small Custom Closet System Solutions: Optimizing Every Inch

Wed, 18 Oct 2023 21:09:29 GMT

A small custom closet system can feel cramped and chaotic, particularly when it isn’t well-organized. It can be a challenge to manage a reach-in closet, but you can make the most of every inch with clever storage solutions.

Here are some of the ways you can optimize your small closet:

Double up your hanging rods
Add adjustable shelving
Use drawer dividers
Take advantage of door storage
Consider corner shelves
Make the most of closet accessories

When organizing a small closet system, it’s important to start with a clean slate. So before you begin implementing any of these tips, go ahead and clean out your closet – pulling everything out. Then, keep on reading to see where you can add more storage space.

Double Your Hanging Rods

What you might be lacking in horizontal space in a small closet, you can make up for by using vertical space well. Doubling your hanging rods entails hanging one rod a bit higher than the one that’s currently there and hanging another one a few feet underneath.

This allows you to store separates on top of each other rather than all next to each other in one cramped line. You can put your pants on top and your tops on the bottom to allow for maximum light to shine through, or you can do the opposite and put your blouses and shirts on the top rod.

Add Adjustable Shelving

Adjustable shelving is also vital in a small custom closet system. Fixed shelves have their place, but when you have limited space, it’s nice to be able to move the shelves around to fit your current needs. Then as your needs change, you can simply adjust them as needed.

One example of when to do this is when you rotate out your seasonal clothes. In the winter, you might have bulkier sweaters and jeans that make higher stacks on the shelves, so you may want to widen the space between them. In the summer, though, you might mostly wear short sleeve knits or T-shirts, which take up minimal space. During the warmer months, you might want the shelves closer together to make more room for another hanging rod to hang your dresses, for instance.

Use Drawer Dividers

You may not have the luxury of having lots of drawer space in a small closet, but that’s not a problem when you add drawer dividers. Consolidate where you can to open up more space.

Here’s an example: You don’t need one full drawer for your socks and another full drawer for your partners’; just put all of the socks in one drawer and separate them with a divider. Everyone has their space, and you will gain the use of another full drawer by combining items.

Take Advantage of Door Storage

The inside of your closet door can be an untapped storage resource. If you have a bifold or pocket door, this tip doesn’t apply, but a traditional closet door can certainly be outfitted with hooks, pockets, or an over-the-door shoe rack to add extra storage space.

If you do have a bifold door taking up space and making it difficult to access the closet, you might consider removing it altogether. While this won’t add more storage space, it will make it simpler to access what’s already in the closet and make your life easier.

Consider Corner Shelves

Even in a small closet, the corners can be difficult to really make the most of. Consider adding corner shelves, which will give you surface area in a less-used space. You can store a variety of small items, including a jewelry tree to hold necklaces or even decorative items to make the closet more personalized.

How You Can Make It has instructions on building corner shelves in case you want to give it a try as a DIY project.

Make the Most of Closet Accessories

A wide range of closet accessories is available, and these can open up a world of possibilities in your closet. A few examples of accessories to consider include:

Shoe organizers: Take control of your shoe collection and get footwear off of the floor with shoe shelves, pull-out shelves, or cubbies that hold your shoes.
Tie and belt racks: These are items that often slip off of regular hangers and end up on the floor. Putting in racks will keep them neat and tidy. They can also be used for scarves and other items.
Pull-out mirror: Rather than taking up valuable wall space with a mirror in your small closet, install one that pulls out. Check your outfit, then slide it back into place.
Jewelry tray: Don’t let your necklaces and bracelets get tangled up or misplaced. Put them in a shallow jewelry tray that takes up little space but organizes these important items.
Valet rod: These make mornings easier by giving you a place to put the next day’s outfit in advance. Your clothes will stay tidy, and you’ll have everything you need at your fingertips.

Conclusion

A small custom closet can be just as functional as a large one; you simply need to know how to use the space. Adding additional hanging and shelf space, using drawer dividers, and taking advantage of closet accessories can go a long way toward giving you more storage space in your reach-in closet.

Source

https://howyoucanmakeit.com/2022/01/11/how-to-build-a-corner-shelf-closet-in-any-standard-closet-weekend-woodworking-project/

Streamline Your Storage: How a Custom Closet System Helps

Tue, 15 Aug 2023 18:14:35 GMT

Your home should be a serene haven, a place where you can get away from a fast-paced and stressful world. Ideally, everything should be streamlined, neat, and tidy. If your home has taken on a chaotic mind of its own, however, all hope is not lost. Having the right storage systems can allow you to put items away more easily. A custom closet system can be a game-changer when it comes to taking control of a cluttered home.

Some of the advantages a custom closet has when you’re trying to get organized include:

Read on to discover how having a custom closet system can help you declutter and achieve a well-organized living space.

Custom Closets are Tailored to Your Needs

If you currently have typical “stock” closets, you likely have a hanging rod and perhaps a shelf in the bedroom closets and also the front entry closet, and the linen closets likely have a handful of shelves. This is often not the ideal storage situation.

With a custom closet system, you can enjoy having a space that takes into consideration your specific belongings, lifestyle, and requirements. You can choose the number of shelves, the heights of the hanging rods, and accessories, such as shoe racks and jewelry trays.

This makes it much easier to put items away, keeping them off of your household surfaces and eliminating clutter at the source.

Custom Closets Help You Maximize Your Space

Many houses have small closets. If you have tiny storage areas, you might feel as though it’s not enough room to store what you want to put in there. This can cause you to simply throw up your hands and give up on the thought of getting organized.

A custom closet allows you to maximize the space you do have, though. Even small or awkwardly shaped closets can hold a lot of your belongings – thanks to a variety of organizers and options. You can take advantage of the vertical space in the closet while also making the best use out of tight corners and nooks.

Custom Closets Allow for Easy Accessibility

It’s one thing to put your items away, and it’s another thing to be able to find the item you want when you want it. Even if a standard closet allows you to stuff your belongings into it, it might not let you access the items placed in the back of the space.

A custom closet, however, is naturally designed to make sorting easier. You can create categories within the space, and you’ll know just where to go to find what you’re looking for. In addition, accessories, like pull-out shelves, drawers, and lazy Susans, let you put your hands on items that are stored toward the back of the space.

Custom Closets Help You to be More Discerning

Once all of your items are well-organized, you’ll begin to find yourself wondering whether you really need another black top, another pair of sandals, or another purse. The answer will depend on how much room you have. When you’re used to having a clutter-free storage space, you’ll take the steps needed to avoid messing it up again.

So, when you find yourself looking at jackets, jeans, or anything else you already have plenty of, you’ll know that you need to make a decision: Should you pass on the purchase, or will you be eliminating something you already have to make room for the newcomer? A to Zen Life recommends following the “one in one out” rule, which will also help you make these tough choices.

Custom Closets are Attractive and Appealing

When an organization system is appealing and looks nice, you’re more likely to want to use it. When it comes to custom closets, making them look nice is the name of the game. You’ll have the ability to choose the finishes and hardware you like, and you can generally pick styles that will mesh with your existing decor or sense of style.

In addition, having everything hanging or folded neatly can inspire you to keep the closet tidy and avoid the chances of it spiraling into disorganization.

Conclusion

If you’re looking for a way to declutter and get your home looking and feeling more like a calm and tidy haven, custom closets just might be the solution you’re looking for. They make your items more accessible, they’re created specifically for your needs, they look amazing, they can increase your space, and they can even help you become more discerning with your belongings.

Source

https://atozenlife.com/one-in-one-out-rule/

7 Reasons Why a Custom Closet System Is a Great Investment in Your Home

Tue, 27 Jun 2023 19:52:38 GMT

Feeling overwhelmed whenever you peek inside your closet? Are clothes and shoes strewn all over the floor? If you’ve ever wished your closet was more organized and easier to navigate, a custom closet system is an excellent investment for your home.

Here are the top 7 reasons why a custom closet system is such a valuable addition to your home:

Maximizes space and increases functionality
Adds monetary value to your home
Matches the look and feel of your home
Eliminates clutter
Saves you time
Saves you money
Keeps the peace in your family

1. Maximizes Space and Increases Functionality

One of the primary benefits of a custom closet system is that it optimizes the storage space already available in your home. Unlike standard out-of-the-box closet systems, custom closets are designed specifically to fit your needs and the size of your space. With the right features, like cabinets, drawers, shelves, and even pull-out ironing boards or hampers, you can transform even the smallest closet into a functional and organized space.

2. Adds Monetary Value to Your Home

When it comes to your home’s value, every detail counts—and one often-overlooked aspect is the closet space. Custom closets not only make your living space more functional, but it also increases the monetary value of your home.

Many real estate agents recommend adding or updating your closet system if you’re looking to sell your home. Not only will potential homebuyers appreciate the added convenience and organization, but they’ll also see it as an upgrade that saves them the time and money they might have spent on a closet remodel.

3. Matches the Look and Feel of Your Home

Looking to upgrade the visual style and flair of your interior spaces? Investing in custom closets is a great way to do just that. They’re completely tailored to your individual style—you can choose from a variety of materials, finishes, and accessories that match the overall aesthetic of your home.

4. Eliminates Clutter

When it comes to closet space, less is sometimes more. A custom closet system can help eliminate needless clutter, so you're left with only what you need. With a custom closet system, everything has its own designated spot, making it easier to keep your closet and home organized. By eliminating the chaos and creating a sense of order, you are creating a mentally and emotionally balanced space for yourself and your family to thrive in.

5. Saves You Time

A custom closet system can help streamline your morning routine by having everything you need at your fingertips. When everything is organized and labeled, you can find what you need without searching through a cluttered closet.

Love to travel? A custom closet can also save you time when it comes time to pack for a trip—you could even consider designating one of the closets of your home as a “travel closet.” According to Forbes , these travel closets make packing so much easier. When you know exactly where everything is, getting ready for your next trip becomes a much more manageable task.

6. Saves You Money

While a custom closet system may seem like an upfront expense, it will save you money over time. By keeping your belongings organized and accessible, you’ll be able to easily see what you have and avoid buying items you already own. Also, a well-organized closet can help extend the life of your clothing and shoes, saving you money in the long run by reducing the need to purchase replacement pieces for your wardrobe.

7. Keeps the Peace in Your Family

Every family knows the struggle of a disorganized and cluttered closet—the stress of not being able to find clothes or matching socks is enough to ruin your day. Custom closets are the solution to those woes, and they can help keep the peace in your family by providing a separate and organized space for each member.

For couples sharing a walk-in closet, custom closet systems can divide the space into distinct sections, making it easier to find your own belongings. And for kids' closets, custom shelving, drawers, and hanging areas can help keep their wardrobes in order, eliminating any morning chaos before school. It’s no secret—organized closets can make your entire family’s everyday life much easier.

Conclusion

A custom closet system is the ultimate investment in your home. It not only increases the value of your property but also adds convenience to your everyday life. The benefits of a custom closet system are well worth the investment and will help you create a beautiful, organized, and functional living space.

Source

https://www.forbes.com/sites/jamiegold/2019/08/11/upgrade-your-trip-planning-and-home-with-a-travel-closet/?sh=1918a36b8629