Organization Ideas for a Walk-In Closet

Rob Dunn • Feb 22, 2022

You've finally got the massive walk-in closet you've always dreamed of. Now what? A vast, empty closet can be a little overwhelming at first - but this is the perfect time to establish storage systems and routines that help you look your best and maximize your closet space.

Your custom-built, spacious closet has endless possibilities for arranging clothes and accessories exactly how you need them. To take full advantage of all that gorgeous space, here are a few tips and tricks for organizing your walk-in closet to suit your needs:

Let there be light
Establish zones
Don't be afraid to utilize hooks and racks
Drawer inserts are your friends
Get cornered
Look up

Whipping your new walk-in closet into shape takes some patience and ingenuity. Don't despair - read on for a roadmap to the glamorous and super-organized walk-in you deserve!

Light Up YOUR Walk-in Closet

It doesn't matter how roomy your walk-in closet might be; if you can't see anything, you won't be able to utilize every square inch of space. Dark areas can hide your favorite shoes and make it easy to misplace items like scarves or belts.

You also want to keep your closet as dry as possible to deter pests and mold and from damaging your wardrobe. Having plenty of light will ensure your closet stays neat and clean. What's the best kind of lighting for your walk-in closet? Thankfully, there are loads of options.

The April edition of Architectural Digest offers several ideas for how to make your closet a blaze of glory:

Ribbon lighting above your closet rods add plenty of illumination
Recessed lighting to highlight your treasures
LED strip lights are incredibly versatile
Add the wow factor with a chandelier or statement pendant light
Adjustable track lighting puts it where you need it

You're in The Zone

One of the best ways to make sure you're getting the most out of your closet space is to establish zones. This is a smart way to build an effortless system you'll love. Check out how the experts at Clever Closets suggest grouping certain items into zones in Four Tips for O rganizing Your Custom Closets:

Hang it: Keep your dresses, pants, and business wear beautifully crease-free
Down below: Chests of drawers, shoe stands, and bins can handle a lot
Wall space: Sturdy hooks are extremely useful for placing things within easy reach
Shelves: Ideal for folded sweaters, activewear, shoes, and accessories

Captain Hook

There's an immense variety of organizational accessories specifically for walk-in closets on the market today. Mounted hooks and racks allow you to use every square inch of space. Available in stylish metallic finishes, durable wall-mounted hooks can hold bags, coats, belts, hats, ties, and whatever else you need.

If you enjoy selecting your outfit of the day ahead of time, handy hooks will display your choice until you're ready to dress. Racks also come in a nearly endless variety of sizes and shapes and are built to safely store pants, scarves, shoes, makeup, perfume, and so much more! Investing in a few hooks and racks for your new walk-in is a wise choice for sure.

Don't Forget The Drawers

Built-in drawers are pretty much a necessity. For extra oomph, deep divided drawers will increase your storage space while keeping items separated and easier to find when you need them. Socks, lingerie, and hosiery can easily become lost or damaged in a messy closet. You can use specialty drawer inserts to keep rowdy unmentionables in line.

If you have valuable jewelry or other heirlooms, then lockable and padded drawers are a superb method for protecting them. Bob Vila suggests adding a stand-alone island to your walk-in closet. It will give you extra drawer space and a handy countertop surface.

Backed into a Corner

Corners are often overlooked as viable storage space, but these little nooks and crannies can certainly increase your usable square footage. The home design gurus at HGTV feature a wild corner carousel with 360-degree access to two entire racks. A Lazy Susan-style revolving built-in would add tons of room for your wardrobe as well as unexpected flair.

The Sky's The Limit

Many closets have higher than expected ceilings, and often that space goes to waste because it's not easy to reach. However, overhead shelves and ceiling-mounted racks can hold those things you adore but simply don't need to use all the time, like winter coats, bedding, and vacation wear.

Storage bins with clear or mesh front panels can help you see what you've got when you're ready to use it. Ceiling-mounted cabinetry is also fabulous for keeping those pieces safe and out of sight.

Conclusion

A huge new closet is a delightful place to organize your favorite belongings, and where you can get ready to face the world. But if it isn't properly organized, you could be in store for a lot of unnecessary hassle. Just put these tips and tricks into play for a gorgeously arranged walk-in closet you'll enjoy for years to come.