How to Clean and Organize a "Catch-All Closet"

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No matter how big (or small) the house, it seems to be inevitable that there ends up being a “catch-all closet” – that place where things that don’t have a home go to hide. That wonderful home of so very many things you don’t know where else to store. That convenient hiding place for any number of messes when unexpected company arrives. The catch-all closet. Close the door and those random items and embarrassing messes are out of sight and out of mind.

Then comes that dreaded day. The day when opening the closet door results in several purses, pillows, or articles of clothing falling on your head. Maybe the door no longer closes due to overcrowding or walking is no longer an option in the walk-in closet. The time has come to brave the mess and mayhem and tackle that cluttered closet.

Step One: Empty the Closet

There probably are some items in the closet that belong in there, but it will be so much easier to put things away in a nice and organized matter if you start with a completely empty closet. Take everything out.

Step Two: Clean the Closet

Once the closet is completely empty, clean all the surfaces: sweep, vacuum, dust, and wipe down all the shelves. A clean slate will open new windows on possibilities of closet organization best suited for your specific needs.

Step Three: Put Things Away

Now that you have a fresh and clean space with which to work, it’s time to maximize put things away in a neat and orderly manner.

Throw out those items that seriously just need to be thrown out, like the torn and faded T-shirts and items stained beyond cleaning.

Purchase stackable storage totes for out-of-season items and label them.
Put things away that have an actual home elsewhere in the house.
Donate or sell items that are still in good condition but are no longer regularly used.

Only leave loose in the closet those items that are used regularly and have a true home in the closet.

There are many different kinds of closet organizers easily found in stores and online available for purchase. If you need something for less money, cardboard boxes of various sizes stacked on their sides make great cubby holes and shelves. A small chest of drawers can be found at second-hand shops.

The job is done.

The catch-all closet has been transformed into a streamlined, well-organized area. Contents can easily be switched out with the change of seasons, and you can easily locate all the items you’ve stored in it.

Now that you’ve organized this closet, chances are good that you’ll find yourself wanting to clean and organize other areas of your home and life as well!

5 Day Clutter Shakedown

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