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Why Closets Are So Hard to Maintain: Closet Organization Tips and Solutions

Lisa Malone

Updated: Dec 9, 2024

Do You Feel Like Your Closet is Always a Mess?


No matter how many times you fold, sort, and rearrange, your closet always seems to revert to chaos. Sound familiar? For many, the struggles stem from clutter, lack of space, and the challenge of keeping things tidy.


This post explores why closets are so tricky to organize and provides closet organization tips and solutions to finally take control of your space.


The Emotional Challenges of Closet Organization


Woman looking into a closet

Attachment to Items


  • Sentimental Value: That concert t-shirt from 10 years ago or Grandma’s vintage scarf can feel impossible to part with.


  • Guilt Over Wasted Money: Letting go of unworn but expensive items feels like throwing money away.


Decision Fatigue


  • What Stays, What Goes? Deciding what to keep, donate, or discard can be overwhelming, especially when you’re dealing with an overflowing wardrobe.


  • Too Many Choices: The sheer volume of items in your closet can lead to procrastination and frustration.


Solution:


  • Use Marie Kondo’s “spark joy” method to evaluate each item’s value in your life.


  • Invite a trusted friend or professional organizer to help you make decisions without emotional bias.


The Physical Limitations of Closets


Space Constraints


  • Too Small, Too Packed: Many closets aren’t designed to accommodate modern wardrobes.


  • Poor Design: Awkward layouts and limited shelving make organization a challenge.


Accessibility Issues


  • Items stuffed into hard-to-reach corners or lost on high shelves become unusable clutter.


Solution:


  • Maximize vertical space with tiered shelving and slim hangers.


  • Consider multi-functional storage options, like bins for seasonal items or shoe racks.


  • If your closet layout isn’t working, a custom design could be the answer.


Lack of Organizational Skills or Systems


No Clear Plan


  • Jumping into an organization project without an overall strategy often results in temporary fixes that don’t last.



Mismatched Tools


  • Using trendy storage solutions that don’t suit your needs can create more frustration.


Overwhelming Trends


  • Pinterest-perfect ideas may look good but might not be realistic for your lifestyle.


Solution:


  • Start with a clear goal: What do you want your closet to achieve?


  • Choose tools that match your habits, wardrobe size, and space.


  • Tailor organizing systems to fit your unique needs instead of following trends blindly.


The Constant Influx of New Items


Shopping Habits


  • Impulse buys and seasonal sales quickly overwhelm even the best-organized closets.

    Woman holding a credit card and shopping bags

Lifestyle Changes


  • Shifts in career, style, or body size mean some items no longer serve a purpose.


Solution:


  • Follow a “one in, one out” rule: For every new item added, one old item must go.


  • Conduct regular closet audits to reassess your wardrobe and make room for the items you love and use.


Why Professional Help Can Make All the Difference


Expert Guidance


  • A professional organizer can help you make tough decisions and create a system that works for you.


Professional organizer helping a client

Tailored Solutions


  • Professionals can recommend custom closet designs and organizing systems that fit your space, style, and needs.


Saves Time and Energy


  • With an expert’s help, you can enjoy the results without the stress of tackling it alone.


Transform Your Closet Today


Organizing your closet may seem like an uphill battle, but it’s achievable with the right mindset, tools, and support. Start small, be intentional, and don’t hesitate to seek professional help if you need it.


Take the first step: Download my free Declutter Guide and schedule a consultation to discover how I can help you create a boutique-inspired, shoppable closet that you’ll love.



 

FAQs About Closet Organization


Q: How often should I declutter my closet?

A: Ideally, you should declutter every 3-6 months to keep your wardrobe current and manageable.


Q: What’s the best way to start if I’m overwhelmed?

A: Start with a small section, like shoes or accessories, and build momentum from there.


Q: Is a custom closet worth the investment?

A: Yes! A custom design can maximize space and functionality, saving you time and frustration in the long run.


 

Additional Resources:



 

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:


Lisa Malone posing with clothes
Lisa Malone, Professional Organizer

Lisa Malone is a professional organizer and closet design expert who has worked with hundreds of clients to tackle the unique challenges of closet organization. 

With years of experience helping individuals overcome common hurdles—like emotional attachments to clothing, lack of time, and inefficient storage solutions—Lisa knows what it takes to create a space that works for your lifestyle. 


Whether you're dealing with an overflowing wardrobe or struggling to maintain an organized system, Lisa’s expertise lies in turning cluttered closets into functional, stylish sanctuaries.


Ready to take control of your closet? Follow Lisa for more expert tips and inspiration to create a wardrobe that works for you!

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