Assessing Current and Future Needs

The first step in creating a custom kids' closet is taking a closer look at both your current and future needs. We want to make sure the closet remains functional over time, and that means it should work for your child now and also a decade or more into the future.

Take an inventory of what your child is currently using. This includes clothing, shoes, toys, and anything else they’re keeping in the closet. Take a look at what they actually use, and remove the things they’re no longer using. This will help you decide what types of components you need now.

Next, consider the future. As children grow, their needs change. Clothes get larger, and they start becoming interested in different hobbies and trends. For example, younger children may need more space for toys and dress-up clothes, while older kids may want more shelving for books and school supplies. Teens will have hobbies ranging from cheerleading to music, and your child will need space for these types of items when the time comes.

Planning the Closet Layout

A well-thought-out layout is important if you want to make the most of the space and create a design that will grow along with your little one. Here are some tips for planning the perfect closet layout:

• Maximize Vertical Space: Take advantage of the full height of the closet by installing hanging rods at different heights. When your child is young, they’ll use the lower rods, but when they get older, those higher rods will come into play. You can also use shelves above the rods that are currently being used.
• Adjustable Shelving: Install adjustable shelves that can be moved as needed. You’ll be able to make the closet adjust to your child’s current needs and height without having to overhaul the entire thing.
• Drawers: Include drawers for storing smaller items, like socks, underwear, and accessories. Drawers help keep these items organized and easily accessible.
• Pull-Out Bins: Use pull-out bins for toys and larger items. These bins make it easy for young children to reach their belongings and put them away all by themselves.
• Hooks and Pegs: Put hooks and pegs on the inside of the closet doors or unused wall space. These are perfect for hanging hats, bags, scarves, and other accessories.

Choosing the Right Materials and Finishes

When we work on your child’s closet, we’ll make some decisions together about the materials and finishes we use to keep the closet looking great and your child safe. Here are some considerations to keep in mind:

• Durability: Kids can be tough on their belongings, so choose materials that can stand up to wear and tear. Solid wood, laminate, and high-quality MDF are good options for shelving and drawer units.
• Safety: Safety should always be a priority in a child's room. Choose non-toxic finishes and paints to keep little ones healthy. Keep in mind that small children often put their hands and other belongings in their mouths. Additionally, consider materials with rounded edges to prevent injuries. All of our kids’ closets are mounted tightly to the wall to prevent tip-over accidents.
• Easy Maintenance: Kids' closets should be easy to clean and maintain. Choose finishes that are stain-resistant and easy to wipe down. Stay away from materials that require special care or are prone to damage.
• Aesthetics: While functionality is likely your top priority, don’t overlook kid-friendliness and appeal. Pick finishes and colors that complement the overall design of the room. It’s best to pick neutral colors, so you can update the closet with accessories in your child’s favorite color since it’s likely to change over time.

Incorporating Functional Accessories

Accessories can make your kids’ closets more functional and easy to use. Here are some accessories to think about adding:

• Bins and Baskets: Use bins and baskets to organize toys, clothes, and other items. Label them, and encourage kids to put things back where they belong.
• Shoe Racks: Install shoe racks to keep your child's footwear organized and off the floor. Adjustable shoe racks can accommodate different sizes as your child grows, and you can always add more shoe fences or racks as their shoe collection grows.
• Hanging Organizers: Hanging organizers with pockets are perfect for storing small items, like accessories, art supplies, and even shoes. They can be hung on closet rods or doors.
• Dividers: Shelf dividers help keep stacks of clothes neat and prevent them from toppling over. They are especially useful for younger children who may not be as careful when putting things away, but even teens will appreciate the ease of keeping their shelves neat.
• Specialized Storage: Consider adding specialized storage for items, like sports equipment, musical instruments, or craft supplies. Custom storage solutions can be designed to fit these specific needs.

Designing for Accessibility and Safety

When designing a custom kids' closet, accessibility and safety are important. Here are some tips:

• Child-Friendly Heights: Place shelves, rods, and hooks at reachable heights for your child. This will encourage your little ones to put their things away by themselves, and it will also keep the closet neater.
• Rounded Edges: Opt for furniture and accessories with rounded edges to prevent bumps and bruises from sharp corners.
• Anti-Tip Devices: Secure larger pieces of furniture, like drawer units and shelves, to the wall with anti-tip devices. This prevents accidents caused by furniture tipping over, which can cause severe injuries. Here are some tips from Healthy Children on preventing these types of accidents.
• Sturdy Hardware: Use high-quality hardware that can withstand daily use. Make sure that handles and knobs are securely attached and easy for small hands to grasp. If your children are very small, you might decide to use locks and latches to keep cabinets and other spaces inaccessible if you’re storing small items that can be choked on.

Personalizing the Closet

A custom kids' closet should reflect your child's personality and interests. Making the closet appealing to your child helps them to take pride in their space. Here are some ideas:

• Color Schemes: Choose a color scheme that your child loves. This could be their favorite colors or shades that match the room's decor. You can use paint, wallpaper, or fun accessories to add color to the closet.
• Themes: Consider adding a theme that makes your child smile. Whether it's superheroes, animals, or outer space, a themed closet can make the space more fun and inviting.
• Custom Labels: Use custom labels or decals to identify different storage areas. Labels can add a personal touch to the closet while also making it easier to know where everything goes.
• Artwork and Photos: Display your child's artwork or photos inside the closet. This personal touch makes the space feel uniquely theirs.

Involving Your Child in the Process

Involving your child in the design process can make sure the closet meets their needs and also fosters a sense of pride and responsibility. Here are some tips for working with your child:

• Ask for Input: Encourage your child to share their ideas, likes, and dislikes. Ask about colors, themes, and specific storage needs.
• Decision-Making: Allow your child to make decisions about certain aspects of the closet, such as the placement of shelves or the choice of accessories. Remember that these things can always be changed later if the closet is adjustable.
• Interactive Design: Use interactive design tools or apps to visualize different layout options. This can help your child understand the design process and feel more involved.
• Hands-On Involvement: Involve your child in organizing and decorating the closet. This can be a fun and educational activity that teaches them about organization and responsibility.

Maintaining the Closet Over Time

A custom closet is a long-term investment that requires regular maintenance, just like any other space in your home that’s used frequently. Here are some tips for keeping the closet in great shape year after year:

• Regular Decluttering: Periodically go through the closet with your child to remove items that are no longer needed. When you switch the clothes over each season is a great time to do this and ensures it’s happening at least twice per year. This keeps the closet organized and prevents it from becoming overcrowded.
• Organizing Sessions: Schedule regular organizing sessions to ensure everything is in its place. You can pair this with the decluttering sessions, or you might want to do it before your child’s birthday, before school starts, or before major holidays to prepare for any new items that will be going in the closet.
• Adjusting the Layout: As your child's needs change, adjust the layout and storage solutions, so they always suit your child. This may involve moving shelves, adding new accessories, or reconfiguring the space.
• Cleaning and Maintenance: Clean the closet regularly to keep it in good condition. Wipe down surfaces, vacuum the floor, and check for any damage that needs repair.

Conclusion

Creating a custom kids' closet that adapts to your child's changing needs can seem like a big task, but it will pay off in the long run. I’ve given you lots of tips for designing your child’s dream closet. You don’t have to do it alone, though! My LA Closet is here to help. With our expertise and dedication to personalized storage solutions, we can design a closet that meets your child's needs and reflects their unique personality. Contact us today to get started.

Source

• https://www.healthychildren.org/English/safety-prevention/at-home/Pages/Preventing-Furniture-and-TV-Tip-Overs.aspx