Excuse vs. Truth Excuse: "I need more space and bigger closets before I can get organized." Truth: By organizing your existing space, you automatically gain the extra room you need. It's not how much space you have, but how you use it. Excuse: "I just did my spring cleaning, so I don't need to get organized right now." Truth: Organizing is not the same as spring cleaning or straitening up. If you organize properly, it's a one-time activity. Organizing systems are fairly maintenance-free when you use them as part of your daily routine. Excuse: "I guess I just have too many clothes because I can never find what outfit I need. It's always buried, and when I do find it I spend a long time ironing because it’s wrinkled." Truth: You may have too many clothes and need to purge, but when your clothes are hung systematically, you will be able to find what you need. Also, they won't be crammed in, so no more unnecessary ironing. You save time and money when your closets are organized. Excuse: "I really want to get my closets organized, but I don't think I can after 10 years of living in the same house." Truth: The longer you wait, the worse it will get. With one step at a time, all things are possible. Start with one closet, then reward yourself and do another one!

Excuse: "You're going to make me get rid of things I am not ready to part with."
Truth: Suggestions will be made, but the final decision is yours. You will still live there and deal with your wardrobe after the session is complete.

A Little Planning Goes a Long Way

The first thing you need to do is commit yourself to having the closet you really want. Think about what it's like now, then dream about what it could be. Think about how your life would be simplified, how much time and money you would save, and how good you will feel once the job is complete.

Next think about the closets you want organized. When you determine which one makes you most stressed, start with that one.

Few things in life come without compromise. You may have to give up a few items in order to make your closet the best it can be.

Don't just buy gadgets and items that claim to solve your organizational problems. Often, these things just add more clutter and don't truly fix your disorganization.

Try to purchase products for your closet that match and are uniform with each other. For instance, buy the same color baskets or the same color hangers.

Figure Out What You Want Where

I've logged over 400 hours designing Schulte closets for people. Through that experience, I've learned that there are six things that will probably need to go in your closet.

• Long Hang: This would be dresses, robes, pants hung by the cuffs, etc.
• Double Hang: This is what it sounds like - it doubles your hanging space. This is for shorter items like shirts, skirts, suits, etc.
• Shelves: These are great for purses, sweaters, etc.
• Shoes: Can be stored on shelves, racks, on the door, etc.
• Drawers: Best used for smaller items like socks, undergarments, etc.
• Accessories: Belts, ties, and jewelry all need a home.

Once you have considered how much space you will need for each of these six categories, you are off to a great start.

If there is currently something in your closet that does not belong in one of these categories, consider taking it out and putting it someplace else.

Remember to use "odd space" to your advantage. Think about hooks to go on walls that are not big enough for a shelf. The hooks could be used for hats, boots, or other small items.

Think about the inside of your closet door. Many doors can hold a shoe rack nicely, or an organizer for belts or jewelry.

Once you hang your clothes, color coordinate them. It is more appealing to look at, and things are easier to find.

A Word about Childrens' Closets

As we all know, children grow up so quickly! It only makes sense that they should have a closet that grows with them. With adjustable shelving, you can go from a triple hang when they are little to a double hang when their clothes get bigger.

Ideally, a child's closet should have lots of drawers. Children can easily put toys or clothes in drawers, helping them learn to clean up after themselves. Smaller children have a hard time hanging clothes up, so make it a little easier for them by teaching them how to fold their clothes instead.