5 Easy Steps to an Organized Coat Closet

As the temperature continues to drop, it is a great time to organize your coat closet. Whether you enjoy winter or merely endure it, you will find it easier with an organized coat closet. Set aside a couple of hours, follow these 5 easy steps, and you will be ready for Old Man Winter to arrive.

1. Sort by Person – Empty your coat closet and divide the contents by person.

2. Inventory – Have each family member inventory their items. Does everything still fit? Are the items in good condition?

3. Donate – For items in good condition that your family is no longer going to use, collect them in a box for donation. Around this time of year, there are always winter clothing drives seeking gloves, coats, scarves, hats, etc. If you can’t find one near you, you can always donate them to a local shelter in your area.

4. Shop – What items do you need to replace? Make a shopping list and head to the store now. You don’t want to be caught without boots for the first big snowfall!

5. Put it Back – Put the remaining items back in the coat closet or cubbies. Use a basket or bin for each person to store their hats, gloves, earmuffs, scarves, etc. Hang up the coats. For younger children, consider using hooks that they can reach so they can be responsible for hanging up their own coat. Hooks are much easier than hangers for them to master at a young age. Boot trays work well for storing wet and/or muddy boots.

While you might not be ready for the “white stuff” quite yet, if you follow these 5 easy steps, your coat closet will be organized and ready to go.

– Donna Lindley, Certified Professional Organizer and owner of Rochester Hills, MI-based Organize Your World, Inc.

For more storage & organization ideas visit Organize-It.