Minimalist Strategies to Turn a Small Closet Into a Decluttered and Optimized Space

Declutter Ruthlessly

Yes, you read that correctly. We said ruthlessly.

So, what does it mean to declutter to such a degree? Well, first, you have to remove everything in your closet. Lay each item out, and go one by one, deciding its fate. We recommend creating three piles: keep, donate, and discard.

The items you donate should still be in usable condition, and for those that aren’t, they go in the discard pile. At the end of the day, your goal is to whittle down your items to only those that have sentimental value and get frequently worn or used. The rest should go.

It’s not always easy to let go of items, but it’s in line with the minimalist philosophy. Plus, getting rid of items you no longer need creates more space, making your closet look and feel larger even if the size didn’t change.

Plus, you’ll realize with time that giving feels good, and you’ll actively look forward to the next time you can declutter and donate.

Prioritize Quality Over Quantity

Since minimalist closet organization is all about paring back what you keep, we figured it helps to have this reminder. Quality matters over quantity. 

Sometimes, it’s prudent to have five button-down shirts or four pairs of work slacks but be discerning overall. One really nice scarf will give you a lot more mileage than three lesser-quality ones. Investing in high-quality, versatile pieces will likewise augment your wardrobe without taking up as much space.

Focus more on timeless, classic styles than today’s prevalent fast fashion trends. Build your own capsule wardrobe that aligns with your lifestyle and personal tastes, and borrow from that when you need to get dressed each day. 

After all, a dash of creativity will let you wear the same shirt in several different ways, such as with a blazer, tucked or untucked, or with a collared shirt underneath.

Utilize Vertical Space Effectively

Working with small closets can be tough, as you only have so much square footage. In your quest to achieve minimalist organization, seek to store your items vertically rather than horizontally. This may require you to invest in new accessories, such as shelves and hanging organizers.

We also suggest installing pegs or hooks on the inside of your closet door and hanging items from there. Stackable bins are likewise a great way to organize vertically and open up more floor space in your tiny closet.

Stick to a One-In, One-Out Rule

This rule is the minimalist’s credo. One-in, one-out refers to an organizing style that helps you live happily with less. According to The Spruce, whenever you put something new in your closet, you take something out that doesn’t go back in. Maybe you donate it, recycle it, or throw it away, but that’s it. It’s gone.

You can follow the one-in, one-out rule for any item in your home as you strive to minimize. Bringing the focus back to closets, though, is a fantastic way to balance your wardrobe and keep your closet clutter-free.

Plus, you can reward yourself for getting rid of something by replacing it with something else. If you’re a sentimental type who finds it hard to let go of certain items, that incentive should make donating a bit easier.

Additionally, the one-in, one-out philosophy can reduce your rate of impulse purchases and make you shop more mindfully, even if you do it more frequently.

Use Uniform Hangers

Many people’s closets end up with a mishmash of hangers between the ones they purchase, those they get from the dry cleaner’s, and those that come with clothing bought at a department store. However, the different hangers make it harder to find what you want.

Instead, may we advise moving to slim, matching hangers? You can enjoy a more cohesive, clean look in your closet, but that’s not the only advantage. Uniform hangers (especially slimmer ones) take up less room in your closet, contributing to that minimalist appearance you’re going for.

Oh, and better yet, your clothes have less risk of slipping, so do yourself a favor, and upgrade your hangers. You’ll be glad you did.

Limit Your Color Palette

This might not sound appealing at first, but hear us out. Sticking to a limited or neutral color palette is an excellent way to introduce more cohesiveness into your closet. You can mix and match outfits faster and more efficiently, so you never have to wonder what to wear for work or play.

Plus, you can reduce visual clutter by simplifying your wardrobe. Sometimes, on the quest for a neater closet, the visual clutter is half the battle.

Incorporate Small Storage Solutions

Small storage solutions for a small closet make sense, wouldn’t you agree? Small drawer dividers, baskets, and bins fit your space and create nooks for storing undergarments, socks, and other accessories.

We love using labels to help keep track of where everything is without having to root through every basket and drawer in the closet. We’re also quite fond of neutral-colored or clear storage solutions, as they go with the minimalist look very well.

Maintain Regular Closet Check-Ins

A closet of any size doesn’t magically stay neat. You have to commit to the task often. Plan regular closet check-ins, such as once every three months. It’s always easier to declutter small piles of items than it is an entirely chaotic closet you haven't touched all year.

When sorting through items, take this time to assess what you’ve used/worn lately and what you haven’t. It may be time to remove those items, especially as part of the one-in, one-out philosophy.

Be advised that organization strategies don’t have to remain static. Feel free to change how you do things as needed to suit your closet.

Conclusion

Minimalist organization and small closets go together like peanut butter and jelly. By stripping back to only the essentials, you can keep more of the items you love, learn the value in giving to others, streamline your daily routine, and enjoy a clutter-free space.

Source

• https://www.thespruce.com/one-in-one-out-decluttering-rule-8610130