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Trendey • Storage Ideas • 13 Small Closet Organization Ideas

13 Small Closet Organization Ideas

13 Small Closet Organization Ideas

  • by — Liz Bittar
  • Published on February 17, 2022

  • Updated on April 13, 2025

Let’s be honest: for a woman to say that she has enough closet space, is because her closet is gigantic!

Truth is, for most of us, there never seems to be enough room in the closet for shoes, coats, hats, belts, scarves, boots, handbags, beachwear, gym wear, office outfits, evening dresses, casual outfits… and some of us have to share precious closet space with our significant other!

If you are tired of your cramped closet and don’t feel like throwing half of your stuff away, have a look at the organization tips we are going to share with you in this post.

1. Sort Your Clothes By Season

Looking to maximize your limited closet space? Start by sorting clothes by season – hang winter items on the left side and summer items on the right. Arrange items in categories for easy access, like coordinating skirts with blouses or rolling up jeans and tucking them away in drawers.

You can keep everything neat and tidy by adding easy-to-read labels to bins and baskets. This simple touch will make it much easier to find what you need without making a mess! With these small closet organization ideas, you’ll be ready to tackle any organizational task with confidence!

Neatly organized small closet with labeled black storage bins, woven baskets on the top shelf, and coats hanging on a single rod.
Source: @beeorganizedsfbay via Instagram
Brightly organized small closet with double hanging space for coats, colorful jackets, scarves, and labeled baskets on the top shelf.
Source: @cleanlinesorganizinganddesign via Instagram
Compact closet with hanging jackets, labeled bins above, a shoe basket below, and hooks on the door holding dog leashes and gear.
Source: @clutterfreebycarrie via Instagram
Minimalist closet with floral wallpaper, hanging dark clothes, white storage baskets above, and neatly arranged shoes on open shelves below.
Source: @grayrosehome via Instagram
Organized closet with colorful winter coats, boots on a tray, and matching gray fabric bins neatly placed on both top and bottom shelves.
Source: @melisssa.obrien via Instagram
Small closet with hanging coats and kids’ jackets, woven baskets on the top shelf, and a multi-tier shoe rack filled with various footwear.
Source: @noplacelikeneat via Instagram
Colorful jackets neatly hung in a small closet with matching labeled fabric bins on shelves above and below for organized storage.
Source: @orderleighhome via Instagram
Well-organized closet with folded clothes above, coats and jackets hung in the center, and woven baskets and boots neatly arranged below.
Source: @red.e.lifestyle via Instagram
Small hallway closet with colorful jackets, labeled woven baskets on upper shelves, and lower bins for bags and umbrellas beside stairs.
Source: @spifforganizing via Instagram

2. Invest In Built-In Organizers

For those of us with a less-than-spacious closet, built-in organizing shelves can be a lifesaver. Instead of stacking items one on top of the other or cramming your clothes into an inaccessible corner, built-in shelves create space for easy access and efficient storage.

Swap out bulky shoe boxes for slim hanging racks that double as extra space to store socks, scarves, and even small pieces of jewelry. Make use of any wall space you have by installing built-in drawers where you can keep folded items like sweaters, t-shirts, and jeans neatly contained.

Also keep in mind that if you’re running low on storage room but don’t want to buy more furniture or organize containers, then hanging multiple hooks on the back of your closet door is an instant and effective fix for creating extra space.

Closet with folded sweaters on center shelves, hanging clothes on both sides, jeans on a lower rod, and a plastic drawer unit for storage.
Source: @heatheraudreyl via Instagram
Spacious kids’ closet with double hanging rods, folded clothes on open shelves, a drawer in the center, and cubbies neatly storing shoes below.
Source: @ourforevercasa via Instagram

3. Match Your Hangers

Keeping a small closet organized may seem like an uphill battle, but with a few creative and simple ideas, you’ll be able to maximize the storage capacity of any small closet. One important way to start off on the right foot is matching all your hangers – as this will create an instantly pulled-together look beneath whatever your clothing items are hung from.

Once you have matching hangers, taking the time to fold shirts and sweaters instead of leaving them crumpled will help keep the visual clutter to a minimum. This can also help in taking an inventory of what’s actually in your closet and identifying whether or not those items are still being worn or if it’s time for a purge session!

Men’s closet with color-organized shirts, jeans, and jackets on double rods, storage bins and shoes above, and a triple laundry hamper below.
Source: @oilybikermama via Instagram
Compact closet with neatly hung white shirts, team caps displayed on open shelves, and colorful shirts and hoodies organized on side rods.
Source: @neatfreakoc via Instagram
White closet with hanging shirts and pants, folded sweaters on open shelves, pull-out drawers in the center, and boots neatly placed at the bottom.
Source: @scandi_space_ via Instagram
Stylish closet with sliding doors, hanging neutral clothes, upper storage bins, wicker baskets, drawers, and shoe cubbies neatly arranged below.
Source: @smallcozyhome via Instagram

4. Label Your Drawers

Small closets don’t have to mean big clutter. A few creative organization ideas can help turn any closet into an efficient storage space. One simple trick is to label each drawer or basket you put in, so you’ll always know how many of each item you need at a glance. Additionally, adding shelves or hooks to the inside walls of your closet will give you even more room for storage and organization.

If your closet is really cramped, try using clear shoe boxes or canvas cubes with label stickers for hiding away items like extra jewelry and clothes, which will make it easier to keep all of your necessities organized, yet easy to access.

Taking the time to practice these small closet organization ideas can make a big difference in keeping your closets neat and organized all year round!

Spacious closet with coordinated clothing on double rods, white baskets for storage, and labeled bins with colorful suitcases on the top shelf.
Source: @neworleansneat via Instagram
Organized closet with black labeled storage bins, hanging winter coats and colorful tops, and rain boots neatly placed on the floor.
Source: @yourpersonalorganizer via Instagram
Neat walk-in closet with labeled white woven baskets on open shelves, drawers below, and shirts and pants hanging on side-mounted rods.
Source: @clutterawayla via Instagram
Closet with labeled fabric bins on top shelves and clear plastic organizers below, storing art supplies, toys, and small household items.
Source: @arrangedby_ashley via Instagram

5. Add Toy Boxes In A Kids’ Closet

With kids running around and needing more and more storage, it can be hard to know where to turn for small closet organization ideas.

Let kids help you take control by setting some ground rules with their clothes: have a special section for dressier clothing, keep seasonal items in boxes on the floor of their closet, and designate toy boxes in the bedroom that can quickly be stuffed away when the company comes over. A kids’ closet should never be cluttered; instead, use shelves and hangers to store items in an orderly fashion.

Remember to add definitions with dividers or color-coded laundry bags – this will encourage kids to maintain organization while keeping things fun.

Colorful kids’ closet with dresses and costumes on hangers, a red storage box above, and tote bags and accessories hanging on the door.
Source: @happyspacesolutions via Instagram
Kids’ closet with two clothing rods full of colorful tops and dresses, and pink fabric bins with ruffle trim neatly placed on the top shelf.
Source: @inspiring.spaces.ep via Instagram
Kids’ closet with neatly hung shirts, storage bins and a skateboard on the upper shelf, and a toy organizer filled with cars and figures below.
Source: @marieeve_famille via Instagram
Baby closet with colorful bins on top, diapers and plush toys on open shelves, woven baskets below, and baby clothes neatly hung on rods.
Source: @ns_woodwork_n_vinyl via Instagram
Children’s closet with books and stuffed animals on open shelves, blue storage bins on the left, drawers in the center, and clothing neatly hung.
Source: @showcasekitchennj via Instagram
Adorable nursery closet with hanging baby clothes, shelves of diapers and plush toys, baskets for storage, and colorful bows displayed on the door.
Source: @vanillalattesandvelvetsofas via Instagram

6. Install See-Through Drawers For Easy Access

One creative way to maximize your space is by using see-through drawers and bins. This will make it easy for you to see what items you have without having to shift through piles of clothing.

Install shelves on the door for extra space and designate an area for folded clothes, shoes, accessories, and anything else that you want easy access to. With some thoughtful organization in your small closet, a neat and orderly system will be within reach!

Compact black wardrobe with color-sorted kids' clothes on hangers and see-through drawers neatly organizing accessories, books, and folded clothes.
Source: @thewholepackageorganizing via Instagram

7. Modular Shelves For Easy Adjusting

Making the most out of a small closet requires a bit of creativity — modular shelves are often helpful in this space as they enable you to adjust the layout to your needs while maximizing storage potential. For heavier items, consider adding wall-mounted hooks.

This way, you can hang heavier clothing or bags without them taking up precious floor space. And finally, don’t forget about using storage containers and baskets to keep smaller items more organized and easy to access!

Stylish closet with coordinated hanging clothes, labeled bins on the top shelf, neatly folded jeans, and shoes and hats arranged on lower shelves.
Source: @dynamic.space.design via Instagram
Minimalist empty closet with white shelving, three gray fabric storage bins, double hanging rods, and mirrored doors reflecting the room.
Source: @lunchbreakreno via Instagram
Elegant open closet with color-coordinated shirts, neatly arranged shoes and handbags, decorative items, and storage baskets on the floor.
Source: @goshasblog via Instagram
Chic wardrobe setup with coordinated neutral clothing, luxury brand boxes, heels, handbags, and flowers artfully arranged on open white shelves.
Source: @mpk_home_styling via Instagram
Closet with dark jackets on hangers, white storage baskets on shelves, a green frog humidifier above, and neatly folded blankets at the bottom.
Source: @tidytimeorganizing via Instagram

8. Diversify Storage Options

Creating an organized small closet space can be tricky, but diversified storage shelves are the perfect solution. With diversified shelves, you’ll be able to organize items such as clothing, accessories, and even towels in just a single closet.

To make the most of your small closet, try utilizing adjustable shelving and adding drawers for items like socks and jewelry. Organization experts recommend that you go through your wardrobe seasonally to curate the items that should stay and those that should go or be donated.

Modern built-in closet with overhead lights, neatly hung clothes, folded garments, shoes, accessories, and drawers in the center for added storage.
Source: @inspiredclosetsathens via Instagram
Cozy closet with neatly hung clothes, storage boxes on upper shelves, and a large woven laundry basket placed at the bottom.
Source: @theredbrickranch via Instagram
Personalized closet with hanging clothes, Paris-themed decor, jewelry display, patterned storage bins, and shelves for scarves, shoes, and beauty items.
Source: @scarletm7 via Instagram
Elegant and organized closet with pastel clothing, handbags, woven storage bins, jewelry displayed on hooks, and shoes neatly arranged on lower shelves.
Source: @inspiredclosetsathens via Instagram
Spacious walk-in closet with color-coded clothes on all sides, a central chest of drawers, folded items on top shelves, and accessories neatly stored.
Source: @live.love.lakehouse via Instagram
Multi-purpose closet with shelves stocked with canned goods, snacks, drinks, and kitchen supplies, alongside hanging winter coats on the right.
Source: @cleanhouse.tink via Instagram

9. Designate A Small Closet For Coats

As small spaces can be overwhelming to organize, the small closet organization may seem like an insurmountable task. To make the process go more smoothly, start by taking inventory of what you have and sorting items accordingly. Keep small winter accessories like mittens and hats in small decorative baskets on the closet floor and invest in a coat rack for small coats.

Try using vertical storage containers to get more space out of your small closet and store other items, such as scarves and gloves, in hangers or clear plastic bags. With small-scale solutions like these, organizing your small closet will be easier than ever!

Charming small closet with coats neatly hung, wicker baskets above, floral-patterned fabric drawers below, and pink rain boots and tulips by the door.
Source: @elizabethandpenn via Instagram

10. Add Shelving Or Storage For Footwear

Installing shelves for your footwear will not only make them more accessible but allow you to designate shelves for specific types of shoes – such as sneakers or dressy shoes. This way, you don’t have to go on a scavenger hunt each morning rummaging through your entire closet trying to locate the right pair of shoes.

One tip we recommend is installing shelves that are adjustable, so no matter how much (or how little) footwear you own, the shelves can be tailored accordingly. With all this in play, the days of being disorganized should be long gone!

Closet with buffalo plaid wallpaper, hanging winter coats, polka dot fabric bins for storage, and cubbies below for shoes and accessories.
Source: @rosewoodandgrace via Instagram
Organized kids’ closet with hanging clothes, wicker bins on the top shelf, gray storage baskets, shoes neatly placed, and a shoe organizer on the door.
Source: @sortedspaces_design via Instagram
Organized kids’ closet with hanging clothes, wicker bins on the top shelf, gray storage baskets, shoes neatly placed, and a shoe organizer on the door.
Source: @redbrickfauxfarmhouse via Instagram
Compact closet with neatly hung plaid shirts, wire shelves below holding storage bins and boxes, and fabric bags organized at the bottom.
Source: @mghomeorganizing via Instagram
Closet filled with neatly hung clothes, clear plastic bins stacked on shelves and floor, and a fabric shoe organizer hanging on the inside of the door.
Source: @whoozorganized via Instagram
Walk-in closet with hanging clothes around two walls, decorative bins and luxury boxes on the upper shelf, and a shoe organizer and baskets below.
Source: @alignedandarranged via Instagram
Spacious closet with color-coordinated clothes on double rods, central shelves filled with shoes and bags, and wigs stored neatly on the top right shelf.
Source: @theorganizerbunny via Instagram

11. Invest In Woven Baskets For Functional Visual Interest

Organizing a small closet can be challenging, but there are some creative ways to make it work! Woven baskets are a great choice for storing items such as sweaters and blankets.

Not only do woven baskets create visual interest by offering texture and a naturally charming aesthetic, but they also offer easy access to your items since the woven pattern leaves room for air flow. Utilizing woven basket storage will help bring order to the chaos of small closets!

Adorable toddler closet with small clothes neatly hung on double rods, wicker baskets for storage in the center, and a framed quote and books on top.
Source: @laurenakile via Instagram
Sweet and tidy nursery closet with pastel baby clothes, striped fabric bins on the top shelf, and wicker baskets neatly organized in cubby shelves below.
Source: @thevidalnest via Instagram

12. Organize A Color-Coordinated Closet

Organizing a small closet can be daunting, but with some simple color coordination, it doesn’t have to be! By sorting your clothes into color categories, rather than leaving them all jumbled together, you’ll easily be able to locate a garment without having to rummage through your entire closet. Bright and neutral colors are great for creating an organized, easy-on-the-eyes look.

Plus it’ll give you one more reason to show off your style and color-coordinate your weekly outfits. Closets don’t have to just look neat and tidy – they can also be fun!

Minimalist closet with neutral-toned clothing neatly hung, shelves stacked with folded sweaters, jeans, heels, and accessories like hats and handbags.
Source: @katledgetthome via Instagram
Closet with color-sorted clothes on double rods, decorative baskets and fabric bins for storage, and a white laundry hamper on the right side.
Source: @kerryturner4054 via Instagram
Spacious men’s closet with color-coded shirts and pants on double rods, boots and labeled bins above, and shoes neatly lined up on side shelves.
Source: @organize_prioritize via Instagram

13. Add Multi-Purpose Hooks To The Closet Door

Maximizing the potential of your small closet is a great way to add space to your home. One of the most effective solutions is to add multi-purpose hooks on the back of the door. These hooks are helpful for hanging bags, hats, or belts while taking up minimal space. This frees up a room aesthetically and makes it simpler to grab what you need right away.

To add extra storage, use collapsible bins or cloth baskets tucked up on the shelves for items that you don’t need daily access to. With this creative combination of organizers sprouting from an otherwise dull and drab closet, juggling work, school, errands, and maybe even a day job becomes significantly easier.

Cozy closet with woven baskets on the top shelf, colorful sweaters hung neatly, folded jeans in cubbies, and hats and a jacket hanging on the door.
Source: @updatemycape via Instagram

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Can we hang sweaters?

Sweaters can stretch out, so you should preferably fold and store them in shelves or drawers.

How do I maximize the space in a tiny closet?

Think of multiple hanging rods, floor-to-ceiling shelves,  drawers and shoe racks. Use dividers to keep your clothes organized and easy to pick and store. Determine designated spaces for your clothes and accessories, so that each item has a place, even in small closets.

Are vacuum bags suited to store clothes?

Yes, you can store your clothing items in vacuum bags, but it is recommendable to remove your clothes from time to time for some fresh air, and then store them back in the bags.

Liz Bittar

Writer

Liz Bittar is a writer/editor, fluent in English, Spanish, German, Italian, and Portuguese, who has lived and worked in England, the USA, Switzerland, Argentina, and in her home country, Brazil.

Liz Bittar is a writer/editor, fluent in English, Spanish, German, Italian, and Portuguese, who has lived and worked in England, the USA, Switzerland, Argentina, and in her home country, Brazil.

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