Coat Closet Organization: Tips for a Tidy, Functional Entryway
Goodbye, coat closet chaos.
The coat closet is one of the hardest working storage spaces in your home. From jackets and shoes to hats, scarves, and seasonal accessories, it’s the go-to space for everyday essentials. Coat closets can be prone to clutter, but having a proper storage system in place will make getting out the door easier. Read on for smart tips and tricks to achieve ultimate coat closet organization.
Why Coat Closet Organization Matters
Organizing your coat closet may not seem like a top priority, but keeping it neat has its benefits. Here are some reasons why coat closet organization matters.
- Maximize Space: Using organizational tools in your coat closet can help you make the most of your space and fit more items than you thought possible. A solid closet system can allow you to neatly store outerwear, shoes, and seasonal accessories in an easy-to-access way.
- Save Time: Keeping your coat closet organized is the best way to help you save time when you’re running out the door in the morning. Keeping things visible and easy to reach will prevent you from spending precious time searching for your favorite jacket or getting the kids ready in the morning.
- Protects Outerwear: Having a designated space for puffy coats, outerwear, and seasonal gear helps keep everything in its best condition. Storing them properly in your coat closet can help prevent puffy coats from being squished and other garments from wrinkling, so they’re ready to go when you are.
Best Coat Closet Organization Tips
If your coat closet has sat unorganized for some time, tackling the mess may seem daunting. Here are some simple tricks to make your coat closet organization a breeze.
- Use Tiered Hangers: Tiered hangers are great for storing multiple accessories while maximizing space. Hang several scarves or light outerwear on a tiered hanger or pair accessories with jackets or coats for an outfit that’s ready to go.
- Protect Clothes With Cedar Hangers: Cedar provides natural protection against pests like moths that can ruin clothing. Using cedar hangers in your coat closet will help preserve your outerwear, especially pieces that aren’t worn for months at a time. They also absorb moisture and odors, keeping your outerwear fresh year-round.
- Include Shoe Storage: Most coat closets can fit a shoe rack on the floor, which helps keep shoes organized and easy to find. If your coat closet doesn’t have space for this, place a shoe storage bench next to it for a comfortable spot to sit down while lacing up your shoes.
Keeping a coat closet organized with kids in the house can be a little trickier. Fortunately, we have tips for family-friendly coat closet organization, too!
- Use Hanging Storage: Hanging closet storage is a game-changer when keeping little accessories organized. Use over-the-door shoe storage where your kiddos can keep their shoes, hats, and other accessories tucked away at a height they can reach. Hanging closet cubbies are perfect for giving each child a dedicated space to store their frequently worn outerwear and accessories, so it’s always easy to find.
- Install Kid-Height Hooks: Instead of installing hooks at a typical height, install a couple at a height that’s easy for your little ones to reach. Install hooks 36" – 48" off the ground for your kids. Installing adult hooks higher up will maximize closet space and provide a spot for everyone’s frequently worn favorites.
- Use Collection Baskets: Place a decorative storage basket on the floor of the coat closet or right outside of it to serve as a collection basket. Have your kids toss mittens, hats, and scarves in this basket when they’re done wearing them to prevent them from ending up all over the house. This makes it easy to sort through accessories when needed or to put them in their proper places.
- Maximize Space With a Hall Tree: If your coat closet just doesn’t have enough space for the whole family, place a hall tree nearby for outerwear overflow. Store special occasion or off-season outerwear in the closet and keep frequently worn pieces neatly hung on the hall tree so family members can grab and go as they head out the door.
Tip!
Get more closet organization tips with our helpful guides:
Small Closet Ideas: How to Maximize Your Space
9 Reach-In Closet Ideas to Save Space
How to Choose the Right Closet System
Frequently Asked Questions
How do you organize a small coat closet?
Maximize vertical space with organizational tools like tiered hangers, hanging organizers, and over-the-door storage. Adding shoe racks, hooks, and storage baskets can also help keep outerwear and accessories neat without overcrowding the space.
What should be stored in a coat closet?
A coat closet is ideal for storing jackets, coats, shoes, scarves, hats, gloves, umbrellas, and other frequently used outdoor accessories. You can also use it to store seasonal outerwear or grab-and-go items near your entryway.
How deep should a coat closet be?
A standard coat closet is typically around 24" deep, which provides enough room to comfortably hang coats and jackets without them getting crushed or wrinkled.
How do I keep my coat closet organized long term?
Use designated storage solutions for different items and regularly declutter unused outerwear or accessories. Keeping shoes, hats, gloves, and coats in dedicated spots makes it easier to maintain an organized system year-round.
