Double Your Hanging Space

If you have one hanging rod in your closet, you might notice lots of space below it. This is particularly true if you’re hanging mostly separates; if you have dresses, full suits, or other long items, it won’t be the case. I have found that most people do have a large number of separates to hang, so adding a second clothing rod can effectively double your hanging space.

The way I like to do this is to raise the current rod a bit, depending on the height of the person or people using the closet. Remember, in a custom closet system, everything is built to order, so your height is a consideration! Then I’ll install the lower rod a few feet below the top one. This allows for plenty of clearance under both rods. 

You can hang tops on the top rod and bottoms on the bottom, or you might choose to hang one partner’s clothing on top and the other’s on the bottom. Do whatever works best for your specific situation.

Incorporate Pull-Out Accessories

Another way to save space in your custom closet is to install accessories that pull, fold, or telescope out as needed. I like these a lot, as they aren’t really visible unless they’re being used, so it cuts down on visual clutter in the closet.

One example of this type of accessory is the telescoping valet rod. When it’s not in use, it folds into itself and doesn’t catch your eye. When you want to hang a particular outfit, say, for work the next day or for a special occasion coming up in the next few days, you simply pull out the rod, and it will be ready to hold your clothes. When you’ve put on the outfit, simply slide the rod back into place.

Other examples include slide-out mirrors, fold-down ironing boards, and pull-out hampers. All of these have their place in the closet when they’re being used, but when they’re not, there’s no reason for them to stick out and take up space.

Choose the Right Hangers

Something many of my clients forget about is choosing the right hangers. You can get hangers for your clothes in a wide range of sizes and styles; you might look for large wooden hangers for a heavy coat or padded hangers for delicates. 

If you’re trying to save space in your closet, consider slimline hangers. These come in a variety of materials, so you will be able to find slim wooden hangers, non-slip velvet hangers, and low-profile plastic hangers. If your clothes are small, you may even be able to get away with kids’ hangers, which take up even less room.

Better Homes & Gardens has a piece on choosing the right hangers, and they include links to where you can buy them.

Use the Inside of Cabinet and Closet Doors

While your closet comes with a set amount of floor space, incorporating various accessories can help you make the most of vertical space. Using both the back of the closet door and also the insides of opaque cabinet doors within the closet opens up storage space you might not have thought of.

If you have a typical non-folding closet door, you can use a rack or organizer to maximize your storage space. Think about adding storage for shoes, belts, scarves, and other accessories. 

I often install cabinets in custom closets, and these also offer additional storage potential just inside the doors. Small items, like jewelry or neckties, can be arranged on the inside of the cabinet doors. Simply install hooks inside the doors to hold these smaller belongings. 

You could also install a whiteboard or cork board for reminders or even your paper calendar. While these aren’t traditionally stored in the closet, you’re in there every morning getting dressed anyway, so it might make sense to use that time to remind yourself of what you need to do that day.

Conclusion

By looking carefully at ways to maximize space in your closet, you’ll be able to store more items and minimize clutter both in the closet and in the rest of the room. My team is always standing by to help. Give us a call if you’d like to schedule a free consultation to learn more about how custom closet systems can work for you.

Source

• https://www.bhg.com/best-clothes-hangers-7501841