Want to organize your closets? Closet systems are available to meet just about every budget, from simple to grand, and the trend is definitely leaning toward the grand, says Paris Bernhardt, general manager of Closet Factory-San Francisco North. "Closet organizing systems have been around since the '80s, but it has been just in the past few years that homeowners have been going toward organizers that look more like furniture, with crown moulding and base mouldings around cabinets. They're going for a custom treatment not unlike cabinets in their kitchens," she says.
In fact, Bernhardt notes, some homeowners are being advised by their Realtors to address the conditions of their closets - and to consider adding an upscale organization system - before putting their home up for sale. The days of hiding your clutter away in the closets may be past, she agrees.
For some homeowners, the task of organizing a closet is overwhelming, and companies such as the Closet Factory can help. "We're a full-service consultation and organizer company,"
Bernhardt explains, as they can provide a complete inventory of needs and provide detail plans, aimed at helping the homeowner achieve "high functionality as well as style."
Even if you can't afford high-end help in organizing your closets, there are many inexpensive alternatives, such as melamine shelving. Or, maybe all you have to do is just clean the space out and re-evaluate the number of rods or shelves you need.
The first step in planning a closet make-over, however, is to measure your current closet to determine hanging requirements and storage needs. Next, you'll need to clear everything out of the closet. This is a good time to go through items that may no longer be used and donate them to charity.
If you want to double your space, consider doubling up the rods. Placing one over the other is the best way to squeeze more storage space out of a closet. Be sure to measure the clothes you'll be hanging there and allow another six inches of clearance above and below each rod. Blouses, shirts, skirts, jackets, and kids' clothes will all fit on double rods.
Do you have too many shelves? Shelves themselves actually take up inches of precious storage space and if you have too many of them, it can make it difficult to stack or remove items.
If you use your closet as a dressing area, make it even more functional by hanging a large mirror on a wall or door. Floor-length mirrors are preferable, especially for women. It might also be a good idea to create a space in this closet/dressing area for smaller items, such as jewelry, scarves and socks.
Don't forget to plan for dust-free storage, too. Cabinets with doors are terrific, but they are the most expensive solution. Clear or canvas hanging bags designed to hold multiple garments are a good alternative
