Fun Meets Function With These Clever Kids' Closet Design Tips

Start With a Clean Slate

Before diving into the fun stuff, it's crucial to begin with a thorough decluttering session. Here's how to approach it:

1. Sort through everything: Take everything out of the closet and sort items into categories (clothes, toys, books, etc.).
2. Decide what stays: Be ruthless in determining what your child still uses and what can be donated or discarded.
3. Involve your child: Make it a team effort by including your child in the decision-making process. This helps them feel more invested in maintaining the new system.
4. Clean the space: With the closet empty, take the opportunity to give it a good cleaning before implementing your new design.

Joyful Abode offers some useful tips for deciding what goes and what stays, a decision that can be challenging for some parents. For instance, think about how much laundry you want to have to do and whether you’re really up to maintaining a lot of clothes with special care instructions. Remember that your child doesn’t need a huge wardrobe. Keep sentimental items you want to hang on to at a minimum as well – remember that everything can’t be special enough to save. Limit yourself to a few truly meaningful items.

Make It Accessible

A common frustration for children is not being able to reach what they need. By making the closet more accessible, you'll empower your child to dress themselves and put things away independently.

• Lower hanging rods: Install adjustable rods at a height your child can reach easily.
• Use open shelving: Replace high shelves with lower, open shelving units that allow your child to see and access their belongings.
• Implement a step stool: For items that still need to be stored higher up, provide a sturdy step stool so your child can reach them safely.
• Install hooks: Place hooks at your child's height for items like backpacks, jackets, or costume pieces they use frequently.
  

Create Zones for Different Activities

Designating specific areas within the closet for different activities can help maintain order and make the space more engaging. For example, you can create a dress-up corner by allocating a section for costumes and accessories, complete with a mirror for trying on outfits. Make a reading nook by outfitting a cozy corner with a small bookshelf and a cushion for reading, if space allows.

You can also set up a small area for arts and crafts supplies with clear containers for easy access and visibility. Is your little one on a team? Design a sports equipment zone by using hooks or bins to organize sports gear and equipment.

Implement Smart Storage Solutions

Maximize every inch of space with these clever storage ideas features.

• Over-the-door organizers: Utilize the back of the closet door for additional storage of shoes, accessories, or small toys.
• Under-bed storage: If the closet is near the bed, use rolling under-bed containers for out-of-season clothes or less frequently used items.
• Vertical storage: Install pegboards or magnetic strips on empty wall space for hanging small items or displaying artwork.
• Drawer dividers: Use adjustable dividers in drawers to keep smaller items separated and organized.
  

Make Organization a Game

Turn tidying up into a fun activity with these ideas:

1. Create a "clean-up race": Set a timer and see how quickly your child can put away their belongings in the right places.

2. Implement a reward system: Use a sticker chart to track successful days of keeping the closet organized, with a reward for reaching milestones.

3. Play "I Spy": Challenge your child to find specific items in their organized closet to reinforce where things belong.

4. Rotate toys: Keep a portion of toys in storage and rotate them periodically to maintain interest and reduce clutter.

Personalize the Space

Make the closet a reflection of your child's personality to encourage ownership. Let them choose their own décor by selecting fun wallpaper, decals, or paint colors for the closet interior. You can also let them display their own artwork; create a gallery wall within the closet to showcase your child's creations.

Incorporate their interests. If your child loves space, use constellation decals on the ceiling. If they're into animals, use animal-shaped hooks or bins. Finally, make or purchase labels with your child's name or handwriting to mark different storage areas.

Regular Maintenance Is Key

To keep the closet functional and fun over time, schedule regular clean-outs. Set aside time every few months to go through the closet with your child and reassess what's needed. Continue to adjust as they grow. Be prepared to modify the closet layout and organization system as your child's needs change.

Celebrate their successes; acknowledge and praise your child's efforts in keeping their closet organized. Perhaps most importantly, lead by example. Show your child how you maintain organization in your own space to reinforce good habits.

Conclusion

Creating a fun and functional kids' closet is all about combining smart organization techniques with elements that appeal to your child's sense of play and individuality. By ensuring accessibility, designating activity zones, using clever storage solutions, gamifying the organization process, and personalizing the space, you can transform a chaotic closet into a delightful and orderly haven. Remember, the key to long-term success lies in involving your child in the process, making organization enjoyable, and maintaining the system over time.

Custom Kids' Closets Made Easy with a Complimentary Consultation

Ready to revolutionize your child's closet? Let Built-in Closet & Garage Designs bring these ideas to life in your home. Schedule your no-obligation design consultation now and take the first step towards organized bliss.

Source

• https://joyfulabode.com/tough-love-guide-outgrown-kids-clothes/