If you’ve ever faced your closet and come across a sweater that you forgot you owned, or couldn’t find a belt that you know is in there somewhere, or simply find yourself staring helplessly at a jumble of clothes… then you probably already know you need a better closet system.

It might be that you need to do some remodeling to create extra space, or simply need more efficient storage options, in any case rest assured, a better closet is possible — it just takes some planning.

The key to a more organized closet is to find solutions to make the most of the available space. Whether your closet is just a place to store your clothes, or also acts as a dressing area, the number one rule for closets is that they must be functional.

As with any home improvement project, the first thing that has to be done is planning. Take the time to think through what you need. By doing this you can be sure you will create a closet and storage system that will fully meet your needs.

Figure out if you want just a place to store clothes or a dressing area. Take stock of your wardrobe and how you like to get dressed in the morning. Do you want a wall closet or a walk-in? Do you want a place to sit, a mirror, a place to iron or fold clothes? Determine your budget.

Although you may think this is a project you can tackle yourself, depending on what you are planning to do, you may find that hiring a professional makes more sense. Even if you are planning to install a store-bought system, a professional designer can help you sort through your wardrobe and make suggestions for organizing the space. It will be money well spent.

Here are some ideas to consider when planning your closet:

	Use every inch of available space. Add storage units wherever possible to maximize spaces. Segment the space with a variety of storage options. Shelves, drawers, cubbyholes and poles at varying heights will all help make the space more efficient. Even a low shelf under long dresses can house extra shoes. Pegs on the wall can be used for scarves and belts. Upper shelves can be used for out-of-season storage.
	Make your everyday items front and center. Position the items you wear everyday at easy reach to avoid wasting time. Use the upper and lower shelves for more occasional wear.
	Group clothing by activity. Put your yoga gear in one area and your work clothes in another.
	Make it visible. If you can’t see an item, you’re likely to forget about it. Use open shelves, wire bins or glass-fronted drawers.
	Don’t box in corners. Use corner units rather than regular open shelving in the corner. Once a clothing rack becomes full, that shelf in the corner can get lost.
	Leave yourself some options. Over time your needs may change; leave yourself some room to make changes by installing adjustable closet units.
	Give some thought to doors. If you’ve got a walk-in the type of door doesn’t matter so much. A reach-in wall closet, however, can be difficult to access if you choose the wrong door. A swinging door will give you the most access (and can be used for extra storage), but can obstruct traffic flow in the room. Sliding doors are also a popular option, but don’t allow you to view the full space — only half at one time. Bi-fold doors are also popular, but come off their tracks easily — causing much frustration in the process. Figure out which option will work for your needs.
	Install a fan. This is especially true for walk-in closets as very often the door is closed — reducing airflow and increasing the risk of mold or mildew.
	Create a dressing area. In a walk-in this is often done as a matter of course, but even a reach-in closet will benefit from a nearby dresser and mirror.
	Add a light. Simple, isn’t it? For a walk-in it’s more obvious, but even for a reach-in closet a light makes a lot of sense. Just make sure if the space is tight that you use fluorescent lighting as an incandescent could create a fire hazard.
	Don’t assume store-bought to be cheaper. Yes, it probably will be if you’re buying wire units, but if you’re opting for solid shelving you might find that once you add up the cost of dividers, shelves, modular units and accessories you would be just as well to have a professional do the job for you. Today, custom millwork is becoming more popular with custom-made dresser drawers, shoe cubbies, shelves and cabinets.