Your closet is out of control if you can't shut the door or you can't find things. Organizing your closet will help you get more use out of the things you already own. Whether it's a clothes closet, a coat closet, or a linen closet, this page will help you learn how to organize a closet.

Your closet is out of control if you can't shut the door or you can't find things. Organizing your closet will help you get more use out of the things you already own. Whether it's a clothes closet, a coat closet, or a linen closet, this page will help you learn how to organize a closet.

• If you're afraid to open a closet door because you're afraid of what you'll see, then your stuff is running your life, not helping it. Take some time to get organized, and you'll reduce the stress in your life that clutter and disorganization can cause.

(Photo by Chris Scott)

• Before getting started organizing, decide what the main purpose of the closest is. A closet does not exist to keep random things out of sight, despite how you've been using it. Is it a clothes closet, a linen closet, storage for out of season coats? Anything that's currently living in the closet that does not relate to it's purpose should be relocated.

• The first step in organizing is to take everything out, so you can clearly assess the space. As you take things out, put them in four groups:

1. Group A contains things that belong in the closet that are still in good condition and that you want to keep.
2. Group B contains things you want to keep, but that do not belong in that closet, and need to be relocated.
3. Group C includes items that are in good condition, but that you don't have a need for anymore. Out of style clothes and clothes that no longer fit fall into this category.
4. Group D is for trash. Games that are missing pieces, towels with holes and frayed edges, shoes with broken heels, and anything else that you were on planning on fixing some day would all be trash.

• Take a look at the items you'll be returning to the closet, and then take a look at the closet itself. You might want to consider additional shelving, or the installation of a closet organizing system, in order to make better use of the space you have.

• Clean the closet before returning the contents. As you return each item, make another judgment about whether it really should be in Group A. Group like items together, to make it easier to see what you have.

• In addition to purchasing a closet organization system, there are small things you can do to make your storage work more effectively.

1. Put all the clothes back with hangers facing backwards. When you wear an outfit, turn the hanger forwards. After a few months you'll be able to see quickly which outfits you're not wearing.

2. Install hooks on the back of the closet door for belts, ties, and scarves.

3. Store out of season clothes elsewhere, either in the attic, a spare closet, or utilize the dry cleaner's storage option.

1. Store an entire sheet set together, bundled inside the fitted sheet.
2. Use baskets to store small items.

• Introduction
• Step 1: Determine the Purpose of the Closet
• Step 2: Clear Out the Closet
• Step 3: Assess the Closest Space
• Step 4: Clean and Return
• Closet Organization Tips