While bedrooms in newer homes usually have plenty of closet space, this is not always the case, especially in older homes. When storage needs start to exceed your current space, you may need to consider other alternatives. In addition, if you’ve converted your basement or attic into a bedroom but weren’t able to add a built-in closet during the upgrade, this article is for you. The storage solution experts at ShelfGenie® have 12 excellent ideas for how to store clothes without a closet!
1. Freestanding Wardrobes and Armoires
Investing in a freestanding clothing wardrobe or armoire is a great way to store clothes without a closet. The freestanding wardrobe typically has a hanging rod and additional shelves or compartments for shoes or folded clothes. They provide a convenient and portable solution for storing and organizing your garments.
A clothing armoire is a tall, standalone piece of furniture with doors that swing open to reveal hanging space, shelves, and drawers. It can serve as a smaller substitute for a closet. Armoires are available in various sizes and styles, making them suitable for different types of decor, spaces, and storage needs.
2. Wall-Mounted Hooks and Pegboards
Install hooks or pegs on your walls to hang clothes. You can use decorative hooks or even repurpose items like door knobs or handles. Arrange the hooks or pegs at different heights to accommodate various lengths of clothing.
3. Open Shelving Units
Utilize open shelving units to store clothes without a closet. Neatly fold and organize clothing and either place them straight onto the shelf or use baskets or fabric bins to keep items organized and visually appealing. You will not be able to fit all of your clothes on floating shelves, but they work very well for shoes, bags, and sweaters! Install them above a dresser and pair them all with a rolling rack for your hanging items. When placed strategically, you will have a beautiful place to keep your cherished clothing items without having to stuff them into plastic totes.
4. Under-Bed Storage
Maximize the space under your bed by using storage containers specifically designed to fit underneath. These containers can hold folded clothes, shoes, or accessories, keeping them out of sight and utilizing otherwise unused space.
5. Over-the-Door Storage
Install over-the-door organizers with pockets or hooks to store smaller items like scarves, belts, or accessories. These organizers hang on the back of doors and provide extra storage without taking up valuable floor space.
6. Suitcases or Trunks
If you have empty suitcases or trunks, use them to store off-season or less frequently used clothing. Stack them neatly out of the way until you need them or place them under a bed or in a corner to save space. You can rotate the clothes you store based on the season or how often they are worn.
7. Create a Capsule Wardrobe
A capsule wardrobe is a minimalist approach to dressing by creating a curated collection of versatile and timeless clothing items that can be mixed and matched to create various outfits. A capsule wardrobe does not rely on big closet spaces because it consists of only a small number of high-quality pieces that are well-suited to your personal style. Typically, a capsule wardrobe consists of around 30 to 40 items, including tops, bottoms, dresses, outerwear, and shoes. This approach to fashion limits the amount of space you need to store a large wardrobe.
8. Get Creative with Storage Furniture and Shelving
Choose a corner of your room, and get as creative as possible. Utilize tension rods, dressers, armoires, and shelving to create an open-faced closet. You can install shelving above the tension rod and then place dressers and closet-friendly furniture under the rods. Experiment with different combinations of storage to find the ones that work best for you and your style.
9. Curtain Call
If you’ve got the cubby space necessary to install rods and strategically place a dresser to create a makeshift closet, then you will want to consider hanging a beautiful pair of heavy drapes to close off the space.
As long as your closet is neat, you can pull the drapes open and allow the room to flow. Curtains are a fantastic option for privacy. It is technically their job.
10. Baskets and Woven Bins
Baskets and totes are extremely helpful when determining how to store clothes without a closet or dresser. Not only can you fit these organizational tools into your “closet,” but you can also store them under the bed or on shelves. The baskets under the bed look pulled together and organized, especially when they’re matching.
11. Storage Behind the Bed
If you do not have a headboard, you might consider creating clothing storage behind the bed. Hanging a clothing rack up high, relatively close to the ceiling, creates a headboard-like feeling while keeping your clothes organized. You can line the space next to your clothing rack with shelves for bags, shoes, and accessories.
12. Built-In Custom Closet
If you do not have the time or the right space options to create a closet on your own, consider working with a professional to install a custom-built closet. A custom-built closet allows you to get creative with the design, tailoring it to fit your needs and style perfectly.
Investing in a permanent closet gives a feeling of having an organized space that is designed just for you. You cannot go wrong with helping create something you love.
Create the Perfect Clothing Storage Solution for Your Home
Whether you have a growing family or are simply outgrowing your space, finding creative ways to store and protect your valuable items is a challenge for many homeowners.
Proper storage helps your clothes and accessories last longer. If you’ve had your fill of living without proper closet space, ShelfGenie is ready to help. All our work is backed by the Neighborly Done Right Promise™, which ensures your satisfaction. Contact your local ShelfGenie storage solution expert today to discuss your options for custom-built closet space and shelving. Our closet solutions are available in select locations, and we’re happy to help you get started right away. Your free consultation and new storage solution is just a call away!
