Mini-Clutter Clinic . . . Closets

Mini Clinic: Organizing an Entry Hall Closet

Duration: 30-45 minutes

USE A TIMER TO AVOID DISTRACTIONS – NOT THE ONE ON YOUR PHONE (optional)

1. Set a Goal for Your Closet (5 minutes)

Purpose: Determine how you want your closet to function as a place for coats, shoes, bags, or cleaning supplies.

Activity: Write down your main goal for the space and the key items that belong there.

2. Clear Out the Closet (10 minutes)

Purpose: Create a clean slate by emptying everything from the closet.

Activity: Remove all items, then clean the space. Dust, sweep, and wipe down the shelves and floor.

3. Sort and Categorize (10-15 minutes)

Purpose: Group similar items together to understand what you have and what’s worth keeping.

Activity: Use categories like Coats/Jackets, Shoes/Boots, Bags, Cleaning Supplies, etc.

Tip: Immediately create piles for Keep, Donate, and Trash to declutter.

4. Choose Organizational Tools (5-10 minutes)

Purpose: Maximize the closet’s functionality using storage solutions.

Suggested Tools:

Hooks or wall-mounted racks for bags, hats, or scarves.

Shoe racks or bins for footwear.

Shelving or baskets for seasonal items like gloves and umbrellas.

Over-the-door organizers for smaller accessories.

5. Return Items to the Closet (5-10 minutes)

Purpose: Arrange everything back into the closet in an organized way. EVERYTHING NEEDS A HOME!

Tip: Place most-used items at eye level and seasonal or rarely used items higher up.

Activity: Strategically put each item back, ensuring that the closet serves its purpose effectively.

6. Final Touches and Maintenance Plan (5 minutes)

Purpose: Make sure the space is easy to maintain in the long term.

>>POST A LIST ON THE INSIDE DOOR OF WHAT BELONGS IN THE SPACE- For younger kids, use pictures<<

Tip: Create a simple maintenance plan, like a quick 5-minute monthly declutter.

Activity: Label shelves or bins if necessary to keep the system intact.

Key Takeaway:

The entry hall closet is often a catch-all space, but it can transform into a functional, stress-free area with proper organization. Consistent decluttering and intentional storage will keep it organized.

Happy Organizing! 

Cheryl