What are the Different Types of Small Closet Organizers?

Small closet organizers are often beneficial to homes that lack ample storage space. By organizing a small closet, additional storage space is gained, and items such as clothing, tools, or paperwork will likely be easier to find. The different types of small closet organizers may include the fully assembled variety, hanging door organizers, additional clothing rods, stacking shelves, and tote bags. Some organizers come fully assembled, while others may require assembly. It may also be beneficial to take an inventory of items in a closet to determine what is necessary to keep.

Fully assembled small closet organizers, such as wooden shelves, are typically more expensive than organizers that must be set up first. Because there is no assembly required, however, this type of organizer is often the easiest to use. Assembled organizers usually require the closet space to be measured before they are purchased. This ensures that the organizer will fit inside.

There may be little space remaining in the closet due to full clothing racks and shelves, plus additional boxes or shelves on the floor. Hanging door organizers may be ideal for this situation. This type of organizer hangs over the back of the closet door and takes up very little space. Hanging door organizers are typically composed of multiple plastic holding areas that may be used to store shoes, clothing, or other small objects. Small closet organizers of this type can also be relatively inexpensive.

If there is additional space underneath the closet's existing clothing rods, extra clothing rods may be installed. This is an option if there are many clothes stored in boxes in the closet. Using another clothing rod will keep the clothing off the floor, creating more space. Clothing rods are generally adjustable, so they can fit closets of various sizes.

Plastic, stacking shelf systems can be ideal small closet organizers because the shelves can often be separated from one another and stacked according to the layout of the closet. Stacking shelf systems typically come in various sizes. Larger sizes are available for storing items such as bulky clothing or coats, and smaller sizes can be used to contain tools, toys, or other small objects that may become easily lost. Many plastic shelves are clear and see-through, allowing for the items inside to be viewed easily without opening the drawers.

Tote bags are generally an inexpensive option for small closet organizers. Because of their small size and flexibility, they can often be stored almost anywhere in the closet. Tote bags can be used in place of boxes for storing clothing or items that are currently unused.

Small closet organizers will likely be most effective if the closet has first been properly cleaned. Removing everything from the closet allows seldom-used items to be viewed. If these items aren't truly important, donating them to charity may be appropriate. After discarding unused items, the remaining items may be better organized, thereby increasing closet space.