Most children's rooms are small, and storage space may be lacking, but a well-organized closet in your child's room can provide storage for clothes, toys, shoes, and even out-of-season clothing. Smart organizational strategies can help your child to dress and clean up independently, reducing struggles and conflicts. Thoughtful design will allow the closet to grow with your child, working well for a toddler or a teen with only minimal modifications.
Step 1
Measure the space available in the closet, both vertically and horizontally. Sketch this onto graph paper. Allocate space for high and low hanging rods, shelving for toys and higher shelves for storage.
Step 2
Mark the position of rods and shelves on the back wall of the closet. Be sure that at least one rod is within easy reach of your child. Use a level to accurately position each element of your closet organizer.
Step 3
Use your diagrams to measure and cut coated wire shelving to the closet's size. Mark the correct length and cut the shelving with a hacksaw. Install the components according to the manufacturer's instructions.
Step 4
Hang clothing on child size hangers, recommends Debra L. Melchior, author of "How to Design a Child's Closet" at the TLC website. Put everyday clothes within easy reach. Use the upper rod to hang out-of-season and special occasion items. If you and your child want to, you can store socks, underwear and pajamas in baskets or bins in the closet.
Step 5
Use boxes or bins on the uppermost shelves to hold outgrown, out-of-season or too big clothing items, suggests organizing expert Louise Kurzeka.
Step 6
Sort toys into clear plastic bins. Store the bins on the shelves, placing favorites at eye level. Store larger toys and a hamper or basket for dirty laundry under the bottom shelf or hanging space.
Tips and Warnings
- OrganizedHome.com suggests labeling bins with photos or pictures to help young children stay organized.
- Children may try to climb in the closet. Be certain that all shelving is safely secured to the wall.
Things You'll Need
- Tape measure
- Pencil
- Graph paper
- Coated wire shelving
- Coated wire hanging rods
- Hacksaw
- Wall anchors
- Screws
- Drill
- Level
- Child size hangers
- Clear plastic bins
