Closets are often one of the most cluttered spaces in the home. They hide clothes, shoes, accessories, and even random household items. Over time, they can become chaotic and overwhelming, making it hard to find what you need—and even harder to keep everything tidy.
The good news is that with storage bins, you can transform your closet into a functional, organized space. Whether you have a small wardrobe or a spacious walk-in closet, bins help you maximize space, reduce clutter, and simplify your daily routine.
This guide will show you how to effectively use storage bins to create a beautifully organized closet that’s easy to maintain.
Why Use Storage Bins for Closet Organization?
Before diving into the how-to, let’s look at why storage bins are a closet game-changer:
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Maximize Vertical Space: Stack bins on shelves to make use of every inch of space.
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Reduce Clutter: Group similar items together to keep them neat and contained.
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Protect Belongings: Lidded bins keep clothes, shoes, and accessories safe from dust and pests.
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Easy to Maintain: Having a clear system makes cleanup quick and stress-free.
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Stylish Storage: Decorative bins can enhance your closet’s aesthetic while staying functional.
Step-by-Step Guide to Organizing Your Closet with Bins
Step 1: Empty and Sort Your Closet
Start by taking everything out of your closet.
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Create piles for keep, donate, and discard.
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Sort “keep” items by category—shirts, pants, shoes, accessories, etc.
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This step helps you declutter and determine exactly how many bins you’ll need.
Step 2: Measure Your Closet Space
Before buying bins, measure:
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Shelf width and depth to ensure a perfect fit.
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The height between shelves to choose stackable bins if needed.
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Floor space if you plan to place bins under hanging clothes.
Knowing your measurements helps prevent wasted space or awkward layouts.
Step 3: Choose the Right Storage Bins
Different types of bins work best for specific needs:
| Type of Bin | Best For |
|---|---|
| Clear Plastic Bins | Easy visibility for everyday items |
| Fabric Bins | Lightweight, stylish storage for shelves |
| Lidded Bins | Seasonal clothing, long-term storage |
| Divided Bins | Accessories like belts, scarves, and socks |
| Stackable Bins | Small closets with limited shelf space |
| Wire Bins or Baskets | Items needing ventilation, like shoes |
Pro Tip: Stick to one or two styles for a cohesive, organized look.
Step 4: Label Everything
Labels are essential for keeping your closet system functional.
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Use printed labels, chalkboard tags, or even masking tape.
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Label bins by category: “Workout Clothes,” “Winter Accessories,” “Shoes,” etc.
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For kids’ closets, add picture labels so they can easily identify where items belong.
Step 5: Group Items by Category
Group similar items together in bins for a clean and efficient system:
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Clothing: Folded sweaters, jeans, or pajamas in fabric or clear bins.
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Shoes: Use stackable bins for heels, flats, and seasonal footwear.
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Accessories: Divided bins for belts, scarves, and jewelry.
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Seasonal Items: Lidded bins for winter coats, swimsuits, or holiday wear.
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Bags and Purses: Keep dust-free by storing them upright in open bins.
Step 6: Use Vertical Space Wisely
Maximize every inch of your closet by thinking vertically:
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Stack bins on upper shelves for items you don’t need daily.
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Install hanging organizers with built-in bins for shoes or accessories.
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Place larger bins on the closet floor to store bulkier items like blankets or out-of-season clothes.
Step 7: Maintain Your System
To keep your closet neat long-term:
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Do a monthly check-in to put misplaced items back in their designated bins.
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Switch out seasonal bins as the weather changes.
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Donate or discard items you no longer wear or need.
Creative Storage Bin Ideas for Your Closet
1. Under-the-Shelf Hanging Bins
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Perfect for smaller accessories like wallets, gloves, or hats.
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Make use of the space just below a shelf that often goes unused.
2. Clear Shoe Bins with Front Openings
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Store shoes without unstacking bins each time you need a pair.
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Keeps shoes visible and dust-free.
3. Decorative Bins for Open Shelving
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Use woven or fabric bins to hide clutter while adding style.
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Great for bedrooms where closets don’t have doors.
4. Color-Coded Bins for Families
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Assign each family member a bin color for easy identification.
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Ideal for shared closets or mudroom spaces.
Common Closet Organization Mistakes to Avoid
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Buying Bins Before Decluttering:
Avoid purchasing bins until you know exactly what you need to store. -
Skipping Labels:
Without labels, your system will fall apart quickly. -
Overstuffing Bins:
Keep bins only about 80% full to prevent overflow and mess. -
Mixing Too Many Bin Styles:
Stick to a consistent style for a clean, uniform look.
Final Thoughts
A well-organized closet isn’t just about aesthetics—it simplifies your daily routine and helps you take better care of your belongings. With the right storage bins, you can maximize space, reduce clutter, and create a closet system that’s both beautiful and functional.
Whether you have a small wardrobe or a walk-in closet, these strategies will help you transform your space into a calm, organized haven where everything has a place.