Closet organization begins with a purge

Closets can become like the Black Hole of Calcutta in no time at all.

Some people are very disciplined in how they treat their closets, but I'm a dismal failure. I toss, pile, hang too much on the hooks on the back of the door and often pile recent purchases in store bags on the floor. I would not invite any of you in for a look-see.

Given that, organizing the closet might be a good chore for these dreary cold days. We can get a jump on all of the other tasks stored up for better weather. So let's devise a plan that works.

First, purge. Take a rainy or snowy day to try on clothes, eliminating anything that hasn't been worn in one year. That's the recommendation of organization experts. Make that apply to belts, shoes, scarves and handbags. For the gentlemen, it might be harder to give away an expensive suit just because you haven't worn it. My recommendation for good suits is to have them cleaned and store them away in secure suit bags.

Ties that are not worn can be rolled and organized into clear plastic boxes. I have stored over 100 of my husband's silk ties post-retirement! We have kept his tuxedo and all of his suits even though they are rarely worn these days.

Next, decide on an equipment budget. You can call a closet company out to give you a free estimate for a custom design. Most of the companies sell laminate MDF (medium density fiberboard) in a limited array of finishes that are laminated over the sub-straight material.

If you are sensitive to off-gassing, make specific inquiry about compliance with the California Air Resources Board guidelines. Be wary of products that originate in China. Another way to approach new organization is with DIY supplies that you can buy from IKEA, Home Depot, Lowe's or your local hardware store. Depending on your degree of competence, you might be able to create double-pole hanging and drawer units yourself. Another way to go is to purchase the supplies and hire a local handyman to install the new equipment for you.

Don't forget items such as a full-length mirror or a place to sit. Lighting is another very important improvement to your closet. Consider the addition of a solar tube or adding a better ceiling light fixture that might improve the amount of light inside the storage area. Remember that over-the-door hanging storage is a very easy way to deliver increased efficiency for accessory items, socks, ties or shoes. Don't forget to add one on the back of your bedroom door if you are extremely tight on closet space. However, check to see if your door still closes with the hanger of your choice.

Another trick to expanding closet storage actually happens under the bed! Think about purchasing a storage bed with pullout drawers under the mattresses. If that is not in your budget, buy risers that lift the legs of the bed so that storage boxes will slide easily under the mattress. Room + Board, Pottery Barn and IKEA all have versions of storage beds.

Be wary of extremely inexpensive options on the Internet. Read the customer reviews before purchasing. And if you want something really out-of-the box, investigate beds that lift up, just like the trunk of your car. Sometimes called lift-and-store designs, the originals began in Italy. Expect to pay anywhere from $3,000 and up for a quality version. They are sleek and functional.

• Christine Brun is a San Diego-based interior designer and the author of “Small Space Living.” Send questions and comments to her by email at christinebrun@sbcglobal.net.

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