If your closet has become a catch-all for clutter, I feel your pain. Achieving a minimalist custom closet may sound daunting, but it's very doable with some thoughtful decluttering and smart organizational systems. I'm going to walk you through my tried-and-true tips for editing down your belongings, optimizing your storage, and maintaining a tidy closet that brings you joy. When you have the right strategies, it’s easier than you think.
The first step is always editing. This is where you decide what to throw away, what to donate or sell, and what to simply trash. I like to turn on my favorite music, pour a glass of wine, and sort through everything. This process can take a few sessions, so don't feel rushed.
Getting rid of clothes can be harder than it sounds. Clutter accumulates when we hold onto things we don't actually use. Be really honest with yourself here–do you actually need that item? The Spruce offers a list of ways to tell if it’s time to get rid of something. If it has stains, holes, or a smell you can’t get rid of, toss it. Other items to get rid of include:
This can be rough because it’s easy to get emotionally attached to something even if you never want to wear it again. If you find yourself in this position, take a photo to capture the memory. Then let the item go.
Pro tip: Take everything out of your closet and sort items into piles: keep, donate/sell, and trash. Working with an empty canvas will help you visualize the space.
Most closets have wasted vertical storage space. Once you've pared down your belongings, maximize this area with hooks, shelves, or racks. Hang items like bags, belts, and scarves on sliding S-hooks. Shelving is great for folded garments, shoes, and accessories. Consider a vertical rack for jewelry or folded pants and sweaters. Going vertical frees up floor space as well.
Pro tip: Install shelving that extends all the way to the ceiling to get the most out of that vertical room.
Nothing creates clutter faster than throwing everything into one big pile. Designate bins, baskets, or trays for specific items such as undergarments, accessories, athletic wear, etc. Clear storage allows you to easily see contents. Bins on shelves maintain a minimalist look.
I love matching woven baskets for a natural vibe. Labels on the front of bins keep things tidy. Bonus: Baskets allow you to add personality with texture and color.
Pro tip: Buy a few matching bins or baskets, then add more as needed rather than going overboard upfront.
For a custom closet, take advantage of drawers and cabinet storage to neatly tuck away small items. Designate drawers for socks, shapewear, and pajamas. Use narrow vertical drawers for things like scarves and belts. Small cabinets are great for handbags, shoes, laundry, and bulkier items.
The key is placing the most accessible items at eye/hand level. Save the higher and lower positions for items not needed as often. Drawers and doors hide clutter to maintain a clean look.
Pro tip: Add drawer organizers and shelf dividers to further categorize items.
An organized closet requires some maintenance to stay clutter-free. This is where a lot of people tend to struggle. Make it a daily habit to put away any used clothing immediately so it doesn't pile up.
I also recommend a weekly refresh. Use this time to return any stray items to their designated homes. Edit any new clutter that's accumulated. Doing mini-declutters regularly prevents messes from getting out of hand.
Pro tip: Schedule 15 minutes every Sunday to tidy your closet. Put on music and you'll breeze through it.
With some strategic decluttering and smart storage solutions, you can absolutely achieve closet minimalism. Focus on keeping only current favorites that fit and make you feel amazing. Maximize vertical space with shelves, racks, and hooks. Use bins, baskets, and drawers to neatly categorize. Maintain your closet space with quick daily and weekly habits. A serene, clutter-free closet promotes peace of mind. You don't have to settle for a cluttered closet system–you deserve a closet as stylish and soothing as you are. You've got this!
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