Reading Time: 9 minutes How to Declutter a Coat Closet: A Parent’s Guide (With Video)
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As parents to three young kids and with an active lifestyle, our coat closet can become overwhelming quickly. Between growing kids and our various layers for running, managing the coat closet requires a strategic approach.
It seemed like every time I opened our coat closet, an avalanche of shoes, book bags, and jackets would come tumbling out. With three kids and a busy schedule, keeping this small space organized felt impossible.
But after a weekend dedicated to decluttering, I transformed our chaotic closet into a functional and tidy space.Here’s our step-by-step guide to help you do the same.
I’ve broken this into two main parts. The first section is decluttering all the shoes in a coat closet. The second section is decluttering all the jackets and coats in a coat closet.
There is also a bonus third section that gives tips to keep the clutter at a minimum. I struggle at the third part!
Towards the end of this article I included a video I made to help declutter a coat closet.
Here’s how we tackled our coat closet, and you can too!
Table of Contents
How To Declutter Shoes In A Coat Closet
In a household with three active kids and two running enthusiasts, our shoe collection can quickly get out of hand. Having a shoe organizer on the door is helpful, but only if everyone uses it.
Between our kids constantly outgrowing their shoes and the variety of footwear we need for different activities our coat closet becomes a jumbled mess of mismatched pairs and shoes that no longer fit.
Tackling this chaos requires a systematic approach to ensure we only keep what we need and use. Here’s how we decluttered our shoe collection and brought order to our coat closet.
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Step 1: Empty the Closet
Remove all the shoes from the closet and lay them out in an open space where you can easily see everything.
Step 2: Sort by Category
Separate the shoes into categories: kids’ shoes, running shoes, casual shoes, dress shoes, etc. This will help you understand what you have and what you need.
Step 3: Evaluate Each Pair
Go through each pair of shoes. For kids’ shoes, check if they still fit. If not, set them aside for donation or recycling. For adult shoes, consider their condition and how often they are worn.
Step 4: Donate, Resell, or Discard
Create three piles: donate, resell, and discard. Children are expensive, I try to recoup the cost by reselling items that are still in clean, and useable condition. I donate shoes that are out of style or season. Recycle worn-out shoes through a local recycling program, lots of organizations use recycled shoes. Discard any shoes that are beyond repair or play use.
Step 5: Store Seasonally
Store off-season shoes in a bin or a separate area to free up space. Keep only the current season’s shoes in the closet for easy access.
Step 6: Use Organizers
Invest in shoe racks or hanging organizers to maximize space and keep shoes neatly arranged. [Check out this affordable and space-saving shoe rack!]
Decluttering Coats and Jackets (HomeTalk 2)
As parents of three young kids and avid runners, our coat closet often feels like it’s bursting at the seams. With each season, our children outgrow their winter jackets, and our collection of running layers multiplies.
From heavy winter coats to light rain jackets, the variety of outerwear needed for our active family quickly becomes overwhelming.
Finding a way to organize and declutter our coats and jackets is essential to keep our closet functional and our mornings stress-free.
Here’s our step-by-step guide to managing the multitude of coats and jackets in an active family’s closet.
Step 1: Empty the Closet
Remove all coats and jackets from the closet. Lay them out in a place where you can easily see and sort them.
Step 2: Sort by Type and Season
Separate coats and jackets into categories: winter jackets, raincoats, light jackets, running layers, etc. This helps in assessing what you have and what is necessary for the current season.
Step 3: Assess Each Item
For kids’ jackets, check if they still fit. If they’ve outgrown them, put them in the donation pile. For adult jackets, consider how often they are used and their condition.
Step 4: Donate, Hand Down, or Recycle
Create piles for donation, hand-me-downs (if you have younger kids who can use them later), and recycling. Donate jackets that are in good condition but no longer needed. Recycle worn-out jackets through appropriate programs.
Step 5: Store Seasonally
Store off-season jackets in bins or vacuum-sealed bags to save space. Keep only the current season’s jackets in the closet for easy access.
Step 6: Utilize Hooks and Hangers
Use sturdy hooks for frequently used jackets and hangers for less frequently used ones. Consider using space-saving hangers for heavier jackets.
How To Declutter A Coat Closet Video
I also created this video showing how to declutter a coat closet.
How To Keep A Coat Closet From Getting Too Cluttered
Step 1: Clean the Closet
Before putting everything back, take a moment to clean the closet. Dust and vacuum the floor to ensure a fresh start.
Step 2: Label and Organize
Label bins or sections for different family members or types of items. This helps in maintaining organization in the long run.
Step 3: Regular Maintenance
Make decluttering a regular activity. Set a reminder to go through the closet every few months, especially at the change of seasons, to keep it organized and functional.
Tips and Tricks To Keep A Coat Closet Organized: Shoes
Regular Size Checks
Regularly checking your kids’ shoe sizes is essential. Make it a habit to measure their feet every few months to quickly identify shoes they’ve outgrown.
Shoe Rotation System
Implement a rotation system for running shoes. Designate pairs for specific purposes like daily runs, races, or trail runs, and stick to it to keep track of wear and tear.
Vertical Storage Solutions
Utilize vertical storage solutions such as hanging shoe organizers. This saves floor space and keeps shoes visible and easily accessible.
Adjustable Shoe Shelves
Install adjustable shoe shelves to accommodate different types of footwear, from boots to sandals. This flexibility helps in organizing and maximizing space.
Family Shoe Bench
Place a family shoe bench near the closet. It provides a convenient spot for everyone to sit and put on their shoes, and it can have storage compartments underneath for extra pairs.
Special Occasion Shoe Storage
Store special occasion shoes in dust bags or clear boxes to keep them clean and organized. This ensures they remain in good condition and are easy to find when needed.
Tips and Tricks To Keep A Coat Closet Organized: Decluttering Coats and Jackets
Double Rod Closet
Install a double rod in the closet. Use the upper rod for adult coats and the lower one for kids’ jackets, making them easily accessible and neatly arranged.
Hooks for Quick Access
Install hooks inside the closet door for frequently used jackets. This provides quick access and helps keep the closet organized.
Label Hangers
Use labeled hangers or tags to designate specific spots for each family member’s jackets. This reduces morning confusion and ensures everyone knows where their jackets are.
Vacuum-Sealed Bags
Store off-season jackets in vacuum-sealed bags. This saves space and protects them from dust and moisture, keeping them in good condition until needed.
Rolling Rack for Winter Coats
Consider using a rolling rack for bulky winter coats. Store it in a basement or attic during warmer months to free up closet space.
Transparent Storage Bins
Use transparent storage bins for off-season storage. This allows you to easily see what’s inside without opening them, making it easier to find items when needed.
Weekly Closet Check
Implement a weekly check to ensure coats and jackets are hung properly and not piling up on the floor. This small routine can prevent clutter from building up again.
Coat Hanger Tags
Attach small tags or labels to each coat hanger to note whose coat it is and when it was last used or washed. This keeps track of usage and cleanliness.
Overall Organization Strategies
Seasonal Switch-Over
Schedule a seasonal switch-over day. Make it a fun family activity where everyone helps swap out winter gear for summer gear and vice versa.
Donation Box
Keep a donation box in the closet. When you find items that no longer fit or are no longer needed, immediately place them in the box. Once it’s full, take it to a local charity.
Involve the Kids
Teach your kids to take responsibility for their items by involving them in the decluttering process. They can help decide which items to keep or donate.
Daily Maintenance
Spend a few minutes each day ensuring items are returned to their designated spots. This simple daily routine can prevent clutter from building up again and maintain an organized closet.
By following these strategies, you can keep your coat closet organized and functional, making life easier for your active family.
Declutter Your Life: My One Year Rule Could Save You Thousands
I also create this video: Declutter Your Life: My One Year Rule Could Save You Thousands
Conclusion
Decluttering your coat closet might seem daunting, but with a plan in place, it’s manageable. By tackling shoes and coats separately and using smart storage solutions, you can keep your closet organized and functional. Happy decluttering!
Feel free to share your own tips or ask questions in the comments below. Let’s keep our spaces clutter-free together!
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