If New York City apartments are said to be the size of shoeboxes, what does that say about the size of the closet? Nothing good. Luckily, there are ways to free up your closet space to get the most out of its small dimensions. From the hanger selection to creative use of the walls, getting creative with the space inside your closet can help open it up and stop any clothes, shoes or accessories from overflowing into the rest of your apartment. Here are five tips from the self-storage option experts at Gotham Mini Storage on how you can get the most of your closet space.
Purge outdated possessions
This doesn’t just refer to those jelly shoes or harem pants. Anything that’s either too small, too big or hasn’t been worn in two years or more should be donated. And those shirts with the embarrassing pit stains? You can just go ahead and throw those out.
Give your closet the upper hand
The space above your built-in hanging bar can be an important asset. If your closet already has an shelf, then start prioritizing items: most used items hang at eye level, less used are piled on the floor and least used should go on this shelf. If your closets has no shelving, not to fret; adding one isn’t a huge undertaking and can be completed in an afternoon.
Floors made for more than walking
Like an upper shelf, using your closet’s floor space can be a huge help when it comes to maximizing storage space. Generally, shoes are best kept here (to keep mud, dirt and other city germs away from your hanging clothes), and a tiered shoe rack will give you the most bang for your buck. As stated in tip #2, this space is also good for your “less used” items. Unlike upper shelf items where you may need either a step ladder to reach or your “Go-Go Gadget” arms, floor items are more easily accessible.
Use a tie hanger in a new way
Since tie hangers are longer than they are wide, they’re a great way maximize the limited space on the hanging bar in your closet. And just because they’re technically made for ties doesn’t mean that’s all they can hold. Belts, scarves, handbags, backpacks and other similar accessories are easy to add.
Declutter the mess
If you went to the dry cleaner a month ago and the clothes are still wrapped in the plastic bags, it’s time to discard them. Voila! Already more space. Shoeboxes can also clutter your closet, so whether they’re empty or full, go through them with a critical eye and decide if you want to keep, donate or store them. Not ready to get rid of those unworn shoes that you know will kill your feet? Don’t worry. Storing seasonal items (like those puffy down jackets) or anything you’re unsure about (like those killer strappy heels) in a personal storage unit is an easy, space saving solution.
For more ways on how to get the most out of your closet space, contact the team at Gotham Mini Storage, the leader in Manhattan mini storage, located at the corner of 38th Street and 10th Avenue in NYC.