Well now that the presents are opened and you have gotten all you need at the after Christmas sales, its time to put everything away, which probably means you need to both build, clean out, organize or perhaps all three.
Whether you have new tools, new clothes or something in between you have to find a place for it.
So once you have sorted out, thrown out or recycled the old items you know it's time to organize the space you do have.
Many closets/storage spaces just need to make better use of the space that they already have, so you will probably be able to store your items by reorganizing current closet space.
For instance in an older design closet you typically have a single bar for clothes with a shelf or 2 on the top for other items.
Dividing this same closet to have shirts, and pants one over the other in one half of the closet and adding a shoe rack in the middle will help to get your clothing organized. Having longer items such as dresses, overalls and robes on the other side will not only allow for more storage space, it will also save you time by being able to more easily find your clothes.
Shirts and pants will be less wrinkled. Having shoes at eye level can make getting dressed an easier task since you don't have to hunt for your shoes from the bottom of the closet.
Whether you have new tools, new clothes or something in between you have to find a place for it.
So once you have sorted out, thrown out or recycled the old items you know it's time to organize the space you do have.
Many closets/storage spaces just need to make better use of the space that they already have, so you will probably be able to store your items by reorganizing current closet space.
For instance in an older design closet you typically have a single bar for clothes with a shelf or 2 on the top for other items.
Dividing this same closet to have shirts, and pants one over the other in one half of the closet and adding a shoe rack in the middle will help to get your clothing organized. Having longer items such as dresses, overalls and robes on the other side will not only allow for more storage space, it will also save you time by being able to more easily find your clothes.
Shirts and pants will be less wrinkled. Having shoes at eye level can make getting dressed an easier task since you don't have to hunt for your shoes from the bottom of the closet.
Teaching Your Child Responsibility With Kids Closet Organizer
0 comments Posted by ariya at 2/21/2012One central lesson that all children need to learn has to do with organization, and one of the best places to start is with their closet. Indeed, as parents, we are continuously trying to teach our children life teachings that they can take with them as they grow up. A kid's closet organizer can help your child stay organized and help parents experience not as much stress during those crazy school mornings where your child is now able to find what they want, when they want it, in their closet.
If you're like most, you may think that your child's room simply doesn't have enough closet space. Often these are reach-in closets (as opposed to the larger walk-in closets) that contain only a rod and shelf. Unless you are able to knock out walls to increase the size of your kid's closet (not an option for the majority of parents), you need to look for another solution.
The solution to this problem is frequently as simple as adding an organizing system to your child's closet. Many organizers have the potential to actually double the amount of usable storage space.
You can buy a kids closet organizer at home improvement stores such as Lowe's and Home Depot in addition to selected larger discount department stores such as Walmart. You can usually purchase whole kits as well as individual components. Before purchasing any closet organizing items, be sure to carefully measure the size of your child's closet and evaluate you and your child's closet organization goals.
Closet organizing systems come in different materials and styles.g. plastic coated wire, laminates, and solid wood. In addition, you can add components such as shelves, drawers, shoe racks, and baskets to better suit your storage requirements and budget.
Due to its affordability, perhaps the most popular organizing option for a kid's closet is the wire style. Wire systems are usually composed of open lattice type shelves and metal brackets. They also let your child quickly and effortlessly find items in their closet, a good feature if you or your child is pressed for time.
To keep your children in the process of organizing their closet, you should be sure to include him or her in the planning and installation of their closet organizing system. Permitting your child to take an active role in the preparation and installation processes can be a worthy learning experience. They are more apt to be happy with the eventual outcome and will actually make use of, and therefore benefit from, their newly organized closet for possibly years to come. Your child can still take part in the design, even if you hire someone to do the installation.
It might be a slight exaggeration to state that regaining control of your closet can be a life changing event. Nevertheless, the benefits that can be realized, especially when it comes to a kids closet organizer, can be tremendous. After working on your child's closet, if you haven't already done so, you will probably want to start work on organizing your own closet.
If you're like most, you may think that your child's room simply doesn't have enough closet space. Often these are reach-in closets (as opposed to the larger walk-in closets) that contain only a rod and shelf. Unless you are able to knock out walls to increase the size of your kid's closet (not an option for the majority of parents), you need to look for another solution.
The solution to this problem is frequently as simple as adding an organizing system to your child's closet. Many organizers have the potential to actually double the amount of usable storage space.
You can buy a kids closet organizer at home improvement stores such as Lowe's and Home Depot in addition to selected larger discount department stores such as Walmart. You can usually purchase whole kits as well as individual components. Before purchasing any closet organizing items, be sure to carefully measure the size of your child's closet and evaluate you and your child's closet organization goals.
Closet organizing systems come in different materials and styles.g. plastic coated wire, laminates, and solid wood. In addition, you can add components such as shelves, drawers, shoe racks, and baskets to better suit your storage requirements and budget.
Due to its affordability, perhaps the most popular organizing option for a kid's closet is the wire style. Wire systems are usually composed of open lattice type shelves and metal brackets. They also let your child quickly and effortlessly find items in their closet, a good feature if you or your child is pressed for time.
To keep your children in the process of organizing their closet, you should be sure to include him or her in the planning and installation of their closet organizing system. Permitting your child to take an active role in the preparation and installation processes can be a worthy learning experience. They are more apt to be happy with the eventual outcome and will actually make use of, and therefore benefit from, their newly organized closet for possibly years to come. Your child can still take part in the design, even if you hire someone to do the installation.
It might be a slight exaggeration to state that regaining control of your closet can be a life changing event. Nevertheless, the benefits that can be realized, especially when it comes to a kids closet organizer, can be tremendous. After working on your child's closet, if you haven't already done so, you will probably want to start work on organizing your own closet.
Labels: Child, Closet Organizer, Closets, Kids Closet, Organizer
People never seem to have enough storage for closets in the average home. True, closets can be a frustrating place to visit, especially if you lack space for storage. For closets, like any other area, can become so crammed that finding, for example, both shoes at once or a favorite bag quickly can be bewildering.
But when you have the right type of storage for your closet, you'll be able to find your clothing fast, dress in just the outfit you want, and start the day feeling confident.
TIP: Replicate a Pro Inexpensively
In fact, there are so many storage organizer options for closets that it's a bit overwhelming for the average person.
One great tip is to hire a professional organizer for only a day who'll probably be familiar with all the options. Have the consultant do only one closet or room for you, then replicate the design throughout the rest of your home yourself.
In the meantime, if it's beyond your budget to hire an organizer or to have a custom closet overhaul, here are some ideas which will enable you to find your clothes in a flash.
Organization: Only What You See is What You Can Select
Before you begin, though, it's a good idea to wipe things clean with a damp cloth and vacuum to give you and the closet a fresh start!
Perhaps the quickest way to free up some space and improve storage for closets is to organize your items by design. For example, some people organize their clothing into work, casual and dress. When you can easily locate and select from all the clothes you own, you can start your day looking and feeling more confident.
At any rate, set up a system for organizing your clothing that works for your lifestyle. Do you have specific articles of clothing that are essential for your business? Give these items their very own section in the closet.
Whatever makes sense for you and your lifestyle will work. You can create your own divisions, such as pants on one side, slacks separate from jeans and so forth. Another idea which takes a little time to set up is to organize by outfit ensemble, for example, a business suit and the blouses that go with it.
Shelves as Super Organizers
Do you have room in your closet for installed shelves? Certain clothing items do much better folded and placed on shelves or in drawers. A couple of simple shelves along the back wall will give you added organizational options for storage. This could be a good place for shoes, pajamas or anything else that needs to lay flat.
What's So Good About an Organized Closet?
Right about now you may be wondering why you want to go through the hassle of organizing and decluttering the closet. For starters, you'll feel much better, not only about your home but about yourself. Conquering clutter will give you a strong sense of accomplishment plus provide a relaxing atmosphere.
Again, you'll always look and feel your best when clothing and accessories are easy to put your hands on. No more tossing blouse after blouse on the bed trying to find the one you know is in there somewhere.
Final Thoughts: Custom Closets
If you have the budget to hire a company, a custom-built or renovated closet can be a dream come true. With adequate lighting, multiple bars, drawers and shelving for every conceivable use, the closet can become your favorite room in the house.
Prices vary: For example, California Closets company is expensive, while Easy closets allows you to design and install your own to save 40%-60%, if you wish.
But when you have the right type of storage for your closet, you'll be able to find your clothing fast, dress in just the outfit you want, and start the day feeling confident.
TIP: Replicate a Pro Inexpensively
In fact, there are so many storage organizer options for closets that it's a bit overwhelming for the average person.
One great tip is to hire a professional organizer for only a day who'll probably be familiar with all the options. Have the consultant do only one closet or room for you, then replicate the design throughout the rest of your home yourself.
In the meantime, if it's beyond your budget to hire an organizer or to have a custom closet overhaul, here are some ideas which will enable you to find your clothes in a flash.
Organization: Only What You See is What You Can Select
Before you begin, though, it's a good idea to wipe things clean with a damp cloth and vacuum to give you and the closet a fresh start!
Perhaps the quickest way to free up some space and improve storage for closets is to organize your items by design. For example, some people organize their clothing into work, casual and dress. When you can easily locate and select from all the clothes you own, you can start your day looking and feeling more confident.
At any rate, set up a system for organizing your clothing that works for your lifestyle. Do you have specific articles of clothing that are essential for your business? Give these items their very own section in the closet.
Whatever makes sense for you and your lifestyle will work. You can create your own divisions, such as pants on one side, slacks separate from jeans and so forth. Another idea which takes a little time to set up is to organize by outfit ensemble, for example, a business suit and the blouses that go with it.
Shelves as Super Organizers
Do you have room in your closet for installed shelves? Certain clothing items do much better folded and placed on shelves or in drawers. A couple of simple shelves along the back wall will give you added organizational options for storage. This could be a good place for shoes, pajamas or anything else that needs to lay flat.
What's So Good About an Organized Closet?
Right about now you may be wondering why you want to go through the hassle of organizing and decluttering the closet. For starters, you'll feel much better, not only about your home but about yourself. Conquering clutter will give you a strong sense of accomplishment plus provide a relaxing atmosphere.
Again, you'll always look and feel your best when clothing and accessories are easy to put your hands on. No more tossing blouse after blouse on the bed trying to find the one you know is in there somewhere.
Final Thoughts: Custom Closets
If you have the budget to hire a company, a custom-built or renovated closet can be a dream come true. With adequate lighting, multiple bars, drawers and shelving for every conceivable use, the closet can become your favorite room in the house.
Prices vary: For example, California Closets company is expensive, while Easy closets allows you to design and install your own to save 40%-60%, if you wish.
Labels: Closets, Guidelines, Storage
Is your life disorganized and your closet space disorganized? You can never find anything you are looking for in your disorganized closets. Well there is a sound solution to this problem, install closet doors. Having an organized closet paves the way for having a more organized life. Besides a closet door there are also closet organizers that are useful for shoes and handbags as well as folded clothes.
Everything should have a designated space in a closet. Clothing such as underwear should have a closet organizer. Choose hangers that do not take up a lot of space and allow for accessibility. Hang your clothes in a color code. For instance all the white clothing should be hung together, and then black, and then red or whatever other colors you have. This way you can find things much easier and quicker. If your closet is tidy your mind will be tidy.
Fold your T-shirts and sort them into color codes. Then pack then into a closet organizer. Closet doors and closet organizers go hand in hand. Revamp your room, give it a whole new look by adding closet doors which come in a variety of different makes, shapes, sizes and colors. Imagine coming home to a tidy, clean well-kept room and having a closet that looks great.
While you are on a cleaning spree, add some closet doors to your bathroom, kitchen, laundry and garage or where ever you may need extra space, as these are great space savers. By changing your home, you are changing your life. Invite your friends around, and get them all to give you a hand. Create a closet doors party, and get the guys to install the doors for you, get your girlfriends to help you organize your clothes. These types of doors are the best way to organize your life.
Everything should have a designated space in a closet. Clothing such as underwear should have a closet organizer. Choose hangers that do not take up a lot of space and allow for accessibility. Hang your clothes in a color code. For instance all the white clothing should be hung together, and then black, and then red or whatever other colors you have. This way you can find things much easier and quicker. If your closet is tidy your mind will be tidy.
Fold your T-shirts and sort them into color codes. Then pack then into a closet organizer. Closet doors and closet organizers go hand in hand. Revamp your room, give it a whole new look by adding closet doors which come in a variety of different makes, shapes, sizes and colors. Imagine coming home to a tidy, clean well-kept room and having a closet that looks great.
While you are on a cleaning spree, add some closet doors to your bathroom, kitchen, laundry and garage or where ever you may need extra space, as these are great space savers. By changing your home, you are changing your life. Invite your friends around, and get them all to give you a hand. Create a closet doors party, and get the guys to install the doors for you, get your girlfriends to help you organize your clothes. These types of doors are the best way to organize your life.
Labels: Closet Doors, Closets
Getting into my closets can sometimes be a scary thing. I never know what may fall out of them. Living with other people does not help matters, with everyone just throwing items into the closet and slamming the door shut. I have yet to be able to train others in the house how to neatly put things away! I have slowly, over time, come up with some time-saving and organizational tips.
First, it is important to declutter the closet if it has been awhile since this chore has been done. I like to take everything out of the closet and go through each and every item. Getting rid of coats that have been out grown or are worn out, cleaning out the old scarves and mittens, and going through all the odds and ends that end up in the closet can greatly increase your storage space and make the space neat and organized. While everything is out of the closet is a great time for a good, heavy-duty washing down of the space. Any good cleaner will do, or even hot, soapy water. It is amazing at how good the closet smells when you get done!
I like to take baskets to organize items. Put gloves, scarves, and other miscellaneous winter wear in one basket to help keep these items together and organized. Putting like items together ensures finding matches quickly. It saves precious time while everyone is trying to get out of the house. Baskets, such as these, fit perfectly on the shelves. Shoe racks on the floor of the closet are great for holding all of the winter boots and shoes. These two items alone help to keep the closet neat, tidy, and organized.
If you have small children in the home, hanging hooks low in the closet on the wall helps them learn how to be organized themselves. Instead of them throwing their coats on the floor, and someone else coming along behind them and picking up their stuff, they learn how to neatly put things away. Backpacks are easy to keep track of this way too. When the kids need to retrieve something out of their pack, it is within easy reach and they are self-sufficient.
Once you get your closet cleaned out, it is easy to maintain. The hardest part is training everyone in the family to help out. But even if you are the ony one in the family taking care of the closet, these time-saving tips will help you out tremendously. Being able to find things quickly and easily makes my day go much smoother. It is my belief that home organization is the same as keeping life simple.
First, it is important to declutter the closet if it has been awhile since this chore has been done. I like to take everything out of the closet and go through each and every item. Getting rid of coats that have been out grown or are worn out, cleaning out the old scarves and mittens, and going through all the odds and ends that end up in the closet can greatly increase your storage space and make the space neat and organized. While everything is out of the closet is a great time for a good, heavy-duty washing down of the space. Any good cleaner will do, or even hot, soapy water. It is amazing at how good the closet smells when you get done!
I like to take baskets to organize items. Put gloves, scarves, and other miscellaneous winter wear in one basket to help keep these items together and organized. Putting like items together ensures finding matches quickly. It saves precious time while everyone is trying to get out of the house. Baskets, such as these, fit perfectly on the shelves. Shoe racks on the floor of the closet are great for holding all of the winter boots and shoes. These two items alone help to keep the closet neat, tidy, and organized.
If you have small children in the home, hanging hooks low in the closet on the wall helps them learn how to be organized themselves. Instead of them throwing their coats on the floor, and someone else coming along behind them and picking up their stuff, they learn how to neatly put things away. Backpacks are easy to keep track of this way too. When the kids need to retrieve something out of their pack, it is within easy reach and they are self-sufficient.
Once you get your closet cleaned out, it is easy to maintain. The hardest part is training everyone in the family to help out. But even if you are the ony one in the family taking care of the closet, these time-saving tips will help you out tremendously. Being able to find things quickly and easily makes my day go much smoother. It is my belief that home organization is the same as keeping life simple.
Labels: Closets, Home, Organized, Storage Closets
Closet Makeover: Organizing Tips for Bedroom Closets, Clothing and Accessories
0 comments Posted by ariya at 12/01/2011Are the contents of your closets a chaotic jumble? Is there so much clutter inside that you can't put anything away and it's just about impossible to find what you're looking for?
Then it's time to reclaim your closets and convert that overstuffed space into usable storage.
Declutter Closets First
If you have a whole room to clean up, start with the closets first. The things in your storage spaces often haven't been touched in a long time. You may even have forgotten you even have them. You're much less likely to feel an emotional connection to them than you are to things you use more often.
Make room for the things you're using now by getting rid of some of the old, unused items from your closets.
Clearing out bedroom closets can be an especially helpful step in gaining emotional freedom from your clutter. Why? Because the clothing, shoes, and accessories found in bedroom closets can carry a big emotional charge, especially for women. It can be emotionally freeing to weed through your personal things and keep only the ones you really need.
Why Are Your Closets Packed with Things You Don't Use?
You may be keeping clothes you don't wear in your closet for lots of different reasons. Some of the most common ones:
It's out of style.
You need to have it cleaned, altered, or repaired.
You don't like the color any more.
It doesn't fit any more.
You don't like the way you feel when you wear it.
It doesn't fit with the things you like to do now. (This is a frequent occurrence for women who leave the professional world to stay home with children. Their business clothes don't fit the new life of driving the carpool or going to the playground.)
You have so many of that item (shoes, sweaters, black dresses, jeans, etc.) that you just never pick this one to wear. If you have multiples of a certain kind of clothing, here's your chance to keep only your favorites and find new homes for the ones you don't like as well.
It's a gift from someone special, but you never liked it much. It won't do anyone any good hanging in your closet or stuffed in a drawer. Acknowledge the good intention behind the gift, then regift it to someone who will really enjoy it.
How to Let Go of Unused Clothes
It can be useful to take a good look at why your closets are full of things you don't use or enjoy. Take a few minutes to look through your closet. As you pick up each item, ask yourself, "How long has it been since I wore this?" If you haven't worn a piece of clothing for several years, it's highly unlikely that you're ever going to wear it again. Then why are you keeping it?
People have a number of reasons for holding onto clothes that they haven't been wearing and aren't likely to wear in the future. Here are some common ones:
They were expensive, and you don't want that money to go to waste. Often that is true. It's also true that keeping clothes you don't use doesn't bring the money back. What if you freed up the physical and mental space those clothes occupy for things you want to use today? You can sell clothes that are in good condition at a resale shop. The truth is that most used clothing isn't worth much. Donate them to charity and you'll get a tax deduction and can move on with your life.
You plan to wear them after you go back to work or lose some weight. But in fact, you're not going to want to wear old, out-of-fashion clothes You'll want to show off your new figure with stylish new clothes. You'll have the same reaction if you go back to work after staying at home for a while. Fashions and office trends change. The clothes that worked for you in your last work situation probably won't make you feel your best when you go back to work.
These clothes bring back memories you want to hold on to. This is a great reason to keep a few special items. But just keep a few, not every single item from those times.
All these reasons for keeping old things share a focus on the future or the past, not the present day. Getting rid of unworn clothes can mean giving up the person you used to be before your life changed. It also means letting go of dreams you may have had for your future, dreams you cherished before your life took a different turn. Giving up old dreams is the way you open the way for the real you to live your best life in the here and now. Sometimes that's hard. It's important to admit to yourself and respect exactly what you've let go.
Give Yourself Permission to Grieve
When you give up your collection of stiletto heels, your size 6 wardrobe, your old hunting clothes, or your corporate suits, you're acknowledging an important change in your life. Sometimes those changes hurt. Allowing yourself to feel the sadness, anger or regret helps you prepare for the real adventure: living your life for today.
Then it's time to reclaim your closets and convert that overstuffed space into usable storage.
Declutter Closets First
If you have a whole room to clean up, start with the closets first. The things in your storage spaces often haven't been touched in a long time. You may even have forgotten you even have them. You're much less likely to feel an emotional connection to them than you are to things you use more often.
Make room for the things you're using now by getting rid of some of the old, unused items from your closets.
Clearing out bedroom closets can be an especially helpful step in gaining emotional freedom from your clutter. Why? Because the clothing, shoes, and accessories found in bedroom closets can carry a big emotional charge, especially for women. It can be emotionally freeing to weed through your personal things and keep only the ones you really need.
Why Are Your Closets Packed with Things You Don't Use?
You may be keeping clothes you don't wear in your closet for lots of different reasons. Some of the most common ones:
It's out of style.
You need to have it cleaned, altered, or repaired.
You don't like the color any more.
It doesn't fit any more.
You don't like the way you feel when you wear it.
It doesn't fit with the things you like to do now. (This is a frequent occurrence for women who leave the professional world to stay home with children. Their business clothes don't fit the new life of driving the carpool or going to the playground.)
You have so many of that item (shoes, sweaters, black dresses, jeans, etc.) that you just never pick this one to wear. If you have multiples of a certain kind of clothing, here's your chance to keep only your favorites and find new homes for the ones you don't like as well.
It's a gift from someone special, but you never liked it much. It won't do anyone any good hanging in your closet or stuffed in a drawer. Acknowledge the good intention behind the gift, then regift it to someone who will really enjoy it.
How to Let Go of Unused Clothes
It can be useful to take a good look at why your closets are full of things you don't use or enjoy. Take a few minutes to look through your closet. As you pick up each item, ask yourself, "How long has it been since I wore this?" If you haven't worn a piece of clothing for several years, it's highly unlikely that you're ever going to wear it again. Then why are you keeping it?
People have a number of reasons for holding onto clothes that they haven't been wearing and aren't likely to wear in the future. Here are some common ones:
They were expensive, and you don't want that money to go to waste. Often that is true. It's also true that keeping clothes you don't use doesn't bring the money back. What if you freed up the physical and mental space those clothes occupy for things you want to use today? You can sell clothes that are in good condition at a resale shop. The truth is that most used clothing isn't worth much. Donate them to charity and you'll get a tax deduction and can move on with your life.
You plan to wear them after you go back to work or lose some weight. But in fact, you're not going to want to wear old, out-of-fashion clothes You'll want to show off your new figure with stylish new clothes. You'll have the same reaction if you go back to work after staying at home for a while. Fashions and office trends change. The clothes that worked for you in your last work situation probably won't make you feel your best when you go back to work.
These clothes bring back memories you want to hold on to. This is a great reason to keep a few special items. But just keep a few, not every single item from those times.
All these reasons for keeping old things share a focus on the future or the past, not the present day. Getting rid of unworn clothes can mean giving up the person you used to be before your life changed. It also means letting go of dreams you may have had for your future, dreams you cherished before your life took a different turn. Giving up old dreams is the way you open the way for the real you to live your best life in the here and now. Sometimes that's hard. It's important to admit to yourself and respect exactly what you've let go.
Give Yourself Permission to Grieve
When you give up your collection of stiletto heels, your size 6 wardrobe, your old hunting clothes, or your corporate suits, you're acknowledging an important change in your life. Sometimes those changes hurt. Allowing yourself to feel the sadness, anger or regret helps you prepare for the real adventure: living your life for today.
Labels: Accessories, Bedroom Closet, Closets, Clothing
Many individuals lead busy lives and experience hectic mornings on a consistent basis. Days can start out on a sour note if we cannot find our work clothes or that blouse that perfectly complements the skirt we have chosen to wear in a hurry. With an organized closet, you could avoid this morning hassle and get a much better start to your day.
Though it can be difficult to find gaps in a busy schedule to organize a closet, the end result is well worth the time invested. An entire weekend may be needed in order to complete this project. The payoff for doing this will certainly be worth giving up your social life for a couple of days. Imagine flinging your closet doors open and immediately seeing everything from accessories for your head to your shoe collection, and everything in-between. Picture how wonderful it would be not have to pull everything out making a huge mess in the process to clean up later, just to find one particular clothing item or accent piece.
It is time to stop dreaming about it and to start making an organized closet a reality. This may seem like a daunting task with a mountain of disorganization from your closet seemingly taunting you. Fear not though, you can do this! A good first step is taking a good look at the current setup of your closet. You want to make sure that your closet features storage capabilities designed to encourage organization, draws on every inch of closet space available, and that is handy for you to use.
After inspecting your closet, you may have discovered that it is lacking in some needed items for organizing. Items such as hanger extensions, adjustable shelves, hooks, a shoe or sock caddy, bins, baskets, stackable boxes, floor or hanging racks, can provide the appropriate configuration to organize your belongings. You cannot expect to organize a closet and keep it that way unless everything has a specific space provided for it within your closet.
Once you have taken care of equipping your closet with various storage features, you can begin using these space savers and organizational products to help organize your closet. This should make it easier to keep it that way once you get everything into place.
Generally speaking, clothes occupy the majority of the space in any closet. Optimize the use of your closet space for hanging and folding your clothing. Extension hangers that can accommodate the hanging of several pairs of dress slacks or jeans on a single hanger are great closet organizers. Hangers made for attaching an additional hanger to them permit you to hang two shirts in the space previously only housing one shirt.
You do not have to hang all of your clothing in your closet. You can in fact store more clothes and find them with less hassle by folding some of your clothes versus hanging them up. Of course, you may want to give priority-hanging space to work and special occasion apparel to reduce the chances of wrinkling them. However, folding your causal clothes for storage will not hurt them, and makes more room for your more dressy clothes. Some shirts may wrinkle when folded, while other clothing is wrinkle-resistant. Does a wrinkle in the comfortable clothes you wear around the house matter all that much? Will anyone really care or even notice wrinkles in the shirt you wear while tending to your garden? Probably not, but considerations such as these can help you make logical decisions for storing your clothes.
Whether a sweater is for casual or formal wear, professionals recommend you always folding sweaters instead of placing them on hangers in your closet to help them retain their shape and to last longer. Sweaters can be bulky when folded. It is best to store them on an open shelf. However, they also fit nicely in sweater bins to be stored on a closet shelf or on the floor.
Another way to organize your closet is to fold and place seasonal clothing in plastic containers to prevent insect invasions, and store those containers on very high closet shelves when not in use. This frees up eye-level space for hanging and folding clothing that you wear every day, or that is in season for quick and easy locating.
The best way to keep your closet organized after a spring closet cleaning or organizing spurt is to remember to put things back in their place after laundering, or should you grab something to wear and change your mind. It only takes seconds for the roots of disorganization to begin growing. One blouse tossed aside in favor of a trendy t-shirt instead of put back in place will soon have other shirts joining it to wreak havoc on your closet organization. Thinning your wardrobe annually and donating unused clothing to charity also goes a long ways towards helping your closet to stay organized.
Now that you have an organized closet, open the doors and see how refreshing organization in your closet looks and feels. You may decide that the rest of the house could benefit from some organization too.
Though it can be difficult to find gaps in a busy schedule to organize a closet, the end result is well worth the time invested. An entire weekend may be needed in order to complete this project. The payoff for doing this will certainly be worth giving up your social life for a couple of days. Imagine flinging your closet doors open and immediately seeing everything from accessories for your head to your shoe collection, and everything in-between. Picture how wonderful it would be not have to pull everything out making a huge mess in the process to clean up later, just to find one particular clothing item or accent piece.
It is time to stop dreaming about it and to start making an organized closet a reality. This may seem like a daunting task with a mountain of disorganization from your closet seemingly taunting you. Fear not though, you can do this! A good first step is taking a good look at the current setup of your closet. You want to make sure that your closet features storage capabilities designed to encourage organization, draws on every inch of closet space available, and that is handy for you to use.
After inspecting your closet, you may have discovered that it is lacking in some needed items for organizing. Items such as hanger extensions, adjustable shelves, hooks, a shoe or sock caddy, bins, baskets, stackable boxes, floor or hanging racks, can provide the appropriate configuration to organize your belongings. You cannot expect to organize a closet and keep it that way unless everything has a specific space provided for it within your closet.
Once you have taken care of equipping your closet with various storage features, you can begin using these space savers and organizational products to help organize your closet. This should make it easier to keep it that way once you get everything into place.
Generally speaking, clothes occupy the majority of the space in any closet. Optimize the use of your closet space for hanging and folding your clothing. Extension hangers that can accommodate the hanging of several pairs of dress slacks or jeans on a single hanger are great closet organizers. Hangers made for attaching an additional hanger to them permit you to hang two shirts in the space previously only housing one shirt.
You do not have to hang all of your clothing in your closet. You can in fact store more clothes and find them with less hassle by folding some of your clothes versus hanging them up. Of course, you may want to give priority-hanging space to work and special occasion apparel to reduce the chances of wrinkling them. However, folding your causal clothes for storage will not hurt them, and makes more room for your more dressy clothes. Some shirts may wrinkle when folded, while other clothing is wrinkle-resistant. Does a wrinkle in the comfortable clothes you wear around the house matter all that much? Will anyone really care or even notice wrinkles in the shirt you wear while tending to your garden? Probably not, but considerations such as these can help you make logical decisions for storing your clothes.
Whether a sweater is for casual or formal wear, professionals recommend you always folding sweaters instead of placing them on hangers in your closet to help them retain their shape and to last longer. Sweaters can be bulky when folded. It is best to store them on an open shelf. However, they also fit nicely in sweater bins to be stored on a closet shelf or on the floor.
Another way to organize your closet is to fold and place seasonal clothing in plastic containers to prevent insect invasions, and store those containers on very high closet shelves when not in use. This frees up eye-level space for hanging and folding clothing that you wear every day, or that is in season for quick and easy locating.
The best way to keep your closet organized after a spring closet cleaning or organizing spurt is to remember to put things back in their place after laundering, or should you grab something to wear and change your mind. It only takes seconds for the roots of disorganization to begin growing. One blouse tossed aside in favor of a trendy t-shirt instead of put back in place will soon have other shirts joining it to wreak havoc on your closet organization. Thinning your wardrobe annually and donating unused clothing to charity also goes a long ways towards helping your closet to stay organized.
Now that you have an organized closet, open the doors and see how refreshing organization in your closet looks and feels. You may decide that the rest of the house could benefit from some organization too.
Labels: Closets, Clothes, Hanging, Organizing Closets
Cleaning up closets might not be as simple as it seems. The changing of seasons makes it even harder and yet more important for cleaning up the wardrobe. This can seem like a nightmare at times! Before finally getting down to the task, you might worry about if for hours.
But now you can rest at ease because your nightmare is over with the invention of custom closet organizers! The invention that saves you from having sleepless nights over closet cleaning and helps you organize your closet in a way that you will be able to rest peacefully in every season.
The addition of a custom closet organizer is a feature that can be added to any closet in your home. An organizer like this will work great virtually anywhere you need to install it ... in the bedroom, attic, pantry, or even the bathroom. They will make items easy to see and find by reducing the clutter that is prevalent in closets. Custom closets help you set up spaces inside your closet area that you can allocate to different materials and items.
Before long your closet will be transformed into easily accessible sections with your custom closet organizers. With rods for hanging your clothes and hooks for items like belts and ties, everything is taken care of with these organizers.
There are several drawers that can be allocated to store your personal items and clothing. There are also shoe trees which can be used to organize a good number of shoes. This will make your collection accessible and the entire closet will look neat and tidy. And no more frustrating searches for your favorite scarf!
The pantry is also a great place for custom closet organizers. Since kitchens are easily messed up and sorely in need of some organization, these are a perfect fit. For this reason you can use these organizers to store your cans and other cooking items like dry pasta and rice.
Just as with the clothes closet, these organizers have hooks which you can use for hanging pots and pans. Use shelving to handle things like your utensils and cutlery as well as your boxed goods. Keep your small appliances neat and tidy by using these organizers.
But now you can rest at ease because your nightmare is over with the invention of custom closet organizers! The invention that saves you from having sleepless nights over closet cleaning and helps you organize your closet in a way that you will be able to rest peacefully in every season.
The addition of a custom closet organizer is a feature that can be added to any closet in your home. An organizer like this will work great virtually anywhere you need to install it ... in the bedroom, attic, pantry, or even the bathroom. They will make items easy to see and find by reducing the clutter that is prevalent in closets. Custom closets help you set up spaces inside your closet area that you can allocate to different materials and items.
Before long your closet will be transformed into easily accessible sections with your custom closet organizers. With rods for hanging your clothes and hooks for items like belts and ties, everything is taken care of with these organizers.
There are several drawers that can be allocated to store your personal items and clothing. There are also shoe trees which can be used to organize a good number of shoes. This will make your collection accessible and the entire closet will look neat and tidy. And no more frustrating searches for your favorite scarf!
The pantry is also a great place for custom closet organizers. Since kitchens are easily messed up and sorely in need of some organization, these are a perfect fit. For this reason you can use these organizers to store your cans and other cooking items like dry pasta and rice.
Just as with the clothes closet, these organizers have hooks which you can use for hanging pots and pans. Use shelving to handle things like your utensils and cutlery as well as your boxed goods. Keep your small appliances neat and tidy by using these organizers.
Labels: Bedroom, Closet Organizer, Closets
Some boys refuse to grow up with age. They still like playing outdoors with their favorite Toys. No matter where they travel to, they always like to carry their Toys with them. Before you start getting any wrong ideas, let me assure you that I’m talking about grown-up ‘boys’ here, and the ‘Toys’ refer to something more than little playthings from a kid’s closet.
If you fancy pumping up your adrenaline with snowmobiling, dirt biking, riding your ATV, jet-skiing or mountain biking, and also enjoy going places with your kith and kin, Toy Haulers are what you need.
Toy Haulers, also known as 'Toy trailers' or 'Toy boxes’, comprise one of the fastest-growing segments of the RV industry. They are particularly popular with individuals who enjoy outdoor sports and are always looking for an opportunity to follow their passion at exotic locales away from home. Toy Haulers merge seamlessly with the active outdoor lives of such people. Toy trailers look just like a regular fifth wheel or travel trailer, and their technical specs are not very different either. Typically, Toy Haulers can be anywhere between 20 to 40 feet long and come equipped with either a frame hitch or a 5th-wheel hitch.
The cargo space (the space where you park your Toys) usually fills the back part of the trailer although there are quite a few excellent side-cargo models. On the former kind, the rear wall features a door which, like in a moving van, can roll up and reveal a loading ramp that can be pulled out. It can also be a simple swing-down door/ramp combination where the door itself acts as the loading ramp. The anterior part of the trailer houses the living area, including bedroom, kitchen and bathroom. Some models also have slide-outs that add extra living space.
It’s easy to see from the above why Toy Haulers are such a marvelous piece of engineering for most. If you’ve always wanted to find the perfect balance between the comforts of your home and your active outdoor lifestyle, Toy Haulers are what you need.
Just like with conventional travel trailers or fifth wheels, you can choose from a wide variety of floor plans for your Toy hauler. The main consideration for most is whether the cargo space has room enough to hold all the Toys that you want to carry along. Another consideration is the angle of inclination of the ramp. After all, you need a ramp that lets you easily, and quickly, load and unload your Toys. Other points to look out for include checking the surface of the ramp to make sure it's finished with non-skid material. In some cases, the cargo area can be converted to a screen porch. If this interests you, be sure to ask your dealer about new or used Toy Haulers with this option.
By the rule of thumb, the larger the cargo area is, the more compact the living area will be. One is advised to find the best balance between the two. Generally, these RVs can easily accommodate 6 – 10 people and contain, at least, one discrete bedroom along with sofabeds and a bunk in the cargo area. There are literally dozens of ways to configure a Toy hauler's living area, and you can also choose the colors and fabrics that suit your taste.
If you fancy pumping up your adrenaline with snowmobiling, dirt biking, riding your ATV, jet-skiing or mountain biking, and also enjoy going places with your kith and kin, Toy Haulers are what you need.
Toy Haulers, also known as 'Toy trailers' or 'Toy boxes’, comprise one of the fastest-growing segments of the RV industry. They are particularly popular with individuals who enjoy outdoor sports and are always looking for an opportunity to follow their passion at exotic locales away from home. Toy Haulers merge seamlessly with the active outdoor lives of such people. Toy trailers look just like a regular fifth wheel or travel trailer, and their technical specs are not very different either. Typically, Toy Haulers can be anywhere between 20 to 40 feet long and come equipped with either a frame hitch or a 5th-wheel hitch.
The cargo space (the space where you park your Toys) usually fills the back part of the trailer although there are quite a few excellent side-cargo models. On the former kind, the rear wall features a door which, like in a moving van, can roll up and reveal a loading ramp that can be pulled out. It can also be a simple swing-down door/ramp combination where the door itself acts as the loading ramp. The anterior part of the trailer houses the living area, including bedroom, kitchen and bathroom. Some models also have slide-outs that add extra living space.
It’s easy to see from the above why Toy Haulers are such a marvelous piece of engineering for most. If you’ve always wanted to find the perfect balance between the comforts of your home and your active outdoor lifestyle, Toy Haulers are what you need.
Just like with conventional travel trailers or fifth wheels, you can choose from a wide variety of floor plans for your Toy hauler. The main consideration for most is whether the cargo space has room enough to hold all the Toys that you want to carry along. Another consideration is the angle of inclination of the ramp. After all, you need a ramp that lets you easily, and quickly, load and unload your Toys. Other points to look out for include checking the surface of the ramp to make sure it's finished with non-skid material. In some cases, the cargo area can be converted to a screen porch. If this interests you, be sure to ask your dealer about new or used Toy Haulers with this option.
By the rule of thumb, the larger the cargo area is, the more compact the living area will be. One is advised to find the best balance between the two. Generally, these RVs can easily accommodate 6 – 10 people and contain, at least, one discrete bedroom along with sofabeds and a bunk in the cargo area. There are literally dozens of ways to configure a Toy hauler's living area, and you can also choose the colors and fabrics that suit your taste.
There has been much talk circled around building gun closets to store prized firearms and while it does make some sense to have them, there are cases in which metal gun cases are a better deal. This choice, however, will depend on your preferences and also the reason you need to store your guns away. Some people may not need a gun closet and will do happily with a metal gun case. While there are others that have spent years and years collecting guns and will need a large storing space to put them, there are also those that will do well with both, and this too will depend on a list of factors as well. Below you will find guidelines that will help you decide between building a gun closet of just buying a metal gun case.
How Many Guns Do You Have?
Sure, gun closets are almost like having an 'art gallery' in your house when you have a wide range of firearms to choose from. However, if you just have a small amount of guns then it does not make sense to spend money to build a gun closet and a metal gun case will do just fine. Having only a gun closet does not give you much flexibility either, because you are limited to just one place in your house. If you have a lot of guns then having a metal gun case to store a few of them when you go on hunting trips is a brilliant idea.
Are You Worried About Security?
Having a gun closet in your house does not mean that you are safe from any attacks on your life and possessions. All that it means is that you are better equipped to deal with a possible intrusion and nothing more. However, how you intend to deal with a possible intrusion is also something that has to be taken into consideration. Do you intend to hide the key of your gun closet somewhere safe and if so how far will you have to walk to eventually get to them? Will your gun closet be close to your room or any other strategic point? Some people simply build a gun closet in their homes without even thinking about the distance that they will have to cover to get to it if there is a burglary. The shorter the distance you have to cover to get to it the better.Depending on the neighborhood that you are in a gun closet is basically an invitation for thieves, whereas you will have risk less exposure when you have a metal gun case. You may also combine the two as well: a metal gun case for security needs stored away at a strategic access point and a gun closet for leisure needs such as hunting and shooting sports.
Who Will Have Access To Your Guns?
Unless you have projected your gun closet in a very special way, it will be easily seen. You run the risk of forgetting the key in the lock one day or placing it somewhere where your children can find if ( if you have children). The raw truth is that unless you outsmart your children, they will eventually find the keys. In other words, you cannot entirely hide a gun closet, but you can hide metal gun cases. In this aspect you reduce the risk of exposing your guns to the wrong hands.
How Many Guns Do You Have?
Sure, gun closets are almost like having an 'art gallery' in your house when you have a wide range of firearms to choose from. However, if you just have a small amount of guns then it does not make sense to spend money to build a gun closet and a metal gun case will do just fine. Having only a gun closet does not give you much flexibility either, because you are limited to just one place in your house. If you have a lot of guns then having a metal gun case to store a few of them when you go on hunting trips is a brilliant idea.
Are You Worried About Security?
Having a gun closet in your house does not mean that you are safe from any attacks on your life and possessions. All that it means is that you are better equipped to deal with a possible intrusion and nothing more. However, how you intend to deal with a possible intrusion is also something that has to be taken into consideration. Do you intend to hide the key of your gun closet somewhere safe and if so how far will you have to walk to eventually get to them? Will your gun closet be close to your room or any other strategic point? Some people simply build a gun closet in their homes without even thinking about the distance that they will have to cover to get to it if there is a burglary. The shorter the distance you have to cover to get to it the better.Depending on the neighborhood that you are in a gun closet is basically an invitation for thieves, whereas you will have risk less exposure when you have a metal gun case. You may also combine the two as well: a metal gun case for security needs stored away at a strategic access point and a gun closet for leisure needs such as hunting and shooting sports.
Who Will Have Access To Your Guns?
Unless you have projected your gun closet in a very special way, it will be easily seen. You run the risk of forgetting the key in the lock one day or placing it somewhere where your children can find if ( if you have children). The raw truth is that unless you outsmart your children, they will eventually find the keys. In other words, you cannot entirely hide a gun closet, but you can hide metal gun cases. In this aspect you reduce the risk of exposing your guns to the wrong hands.
Are your kid's closets a disaster? Most kids hate cleaning their room and end up throwing or cramming everything on the floor into their closets. You need to find a way to teach your small child early to take care of their toys and put them away. If you could come up with some fun kit closets ideas, you might be able to change that situation.
Children usually don't care about their closets and if they had one that was interesting to them, they might show a desire to keep it cleaner. Kids love sports teams, famous athletes, movies, as well as movie stars and these can be used to make a themed closet for your child. If you design a closet around their favorite sports team or player, they will take much more interest in the closet and undoubtedly learn to use it.
Adding a colorful light or lights to a closet can also help make it look cool. kids love lights and they can add atmosphere to any closet. Just take a look at any nightclub or hip restaurant and you will see how effective lighting can be. If you put in the right kind of lighting in your child's closet they will show an interest in it that was never there before.
If your child is in a room with a walk in closet you have more options to make a fun space for them to store their things. If you have the money you could splurge for a custom closet that is build by a professional company. The custom closet business is big now and there are many companies that will come to your home and design something just for you. Having them design and install something fun for your child might be a bit expensive but it could be worth it to teach your kid about being neat and respecting their things.
No matter how hard you try, some kids will never learn to be neat. Other children though, are neat and clean naturally and do it without any prompting from their parents. Most kids fall somewhere in between these two extremes and if you take the time to try to build a fun closet for them, it will grab their attention. An interesting closet will help teach them to put their things away and learn how to use a closet.
Children usually don't care about their closets and if they had one that was interesting to them, they might show a desire to keep it cleaner. Kids love sports teams, famous athletes, movies, as well as movie stars and these can be used to make a themed closet for your child. If you design a closet around their favorite sports team or player, they will take much more interest in the closet and undoubtedly learn to use it.
Adding a colorful light or lights to a closet can also help make it look cool. kids love lights and they can add atmosphere to any closet. Just take a look at any nightclub or hip restaurant and you will see how effective lighting can be. If you put in the right kind of lighting in your child's closet they will show an interest in it that was never there before.
If your child is in a room with a walk in closet you have more options to make a fun space for them to store their things. If you have the money you could splurge for a custom closet that is build by a professional company. The custom closet business is big now and there are many companies that will come to your home and design something just for you. Having them design and install something fun for your child might be a bit expensive but it could be worth it to teach your kid about being neat and respecting their things.
No matter how hard you try, some kids will never learn to be neat. Other children though, are neat and clean naturally and do it without any prompting from their parents. Most kids fall somewhere in between these two extremes and if you take the time to try to build a fun closet for them, it will grab their attention. An interesting closet will help teach them to put their things away and learn how to use a closet.
Labels: Closets, Closets Ideas, Kits Closets Ideas
Have you ever opened your guest room closet door only to be greeted by a stale, musty odor that has permeated your clothing and anything else stored there? It literally seems to saturate anything stored in that space, including books, clothing, coats, shoes, seasonal items, and other things, and the smell can be very hard to get rid of. Instead of dealing with the smell, prevent it by keeping closets smelling fresh with sachets in a variety of shapes, sizes, and scents. These are some of the most common scent options:
Lavender is a mild sachet scent option that works great and has been used for centuries for just this purpose, in order to keep closets and other methods of storage fresh. People have been utilizing the mildly sweet and soothing scent of lavender to refresh body, soul, and mind for many years, and it works great in small tight places or large open ones. Because the smell is mild and disperses quickly in a breeze, it is a good option for those who get headaches that are triggered by scent.
Pine is also a very common scent choice, but it can be overwhelming if you are not careful with the brand name that you choose. For those who want a pine scented sachet in the closet to keep things smelling fresh, be sure to choose a name brand instead of a store brand. Cheap imitations often overpower the entire space in pine, and it can saturate everything inside just as heavily as the musty stale odor you are trying to avoid. No scent is a good one if it is overwhelming.
Floral scent sachets have waned in popularity, but milder scents are becoming trendy again as new ideas are introduced that are less overwhelming. Although the name implies a wonderful walk through your flower garden, most floral scents more closely resemble those cans of bathroom freshener that we all avoid in the grocery store. Be wary of any scent that you cannot first smell for yourself, and consider a different selection if the scent seems strong at first. In cases like this, it is better to make a different choice than to be bowled over by the smell of cheap flowers later; and if you discover that the scent is acceptable later, sachets are very easy to swap out.
More modern ideas such as charcoal make a lot of sense if you want freshness without scent in your sachet. It may sound odd at first, but charcoal seems to soak up the scent without dispersing its own scent, meaning that you eliminate staleness and mustiness without adding any other scent. People with medical problems such as chronic illnesses made worse by scent, frequent headaches, allergy problems, and similar issues can choose to keep the closet fresh by using a charcoal sachet that neutralizes the odor. Charcoal is also a very eco-friendly idea, especially when combined with environmentally friendly packaging such as a bamboo sachet pillow or closet hanger.
Lavender is a mild sachet scent option that works great and has been used for centuries for just this purpose, in order to keep closets and other methods of storage fresh. People have been utilizing the mildly sweet and soothing scent of lavender to refresh body, soul, and mind for many years, and it works great in small tight places or large open ones. Because the smell is mild and disperses quickly in a breeze, it is a good option for those who get headaches that are triggered by scent.
Pine is also a very common scent choice, but it can be overwhelming if you are not careful with the brand name that you choose. For those who want a pine scented sachet in the closet to keep things smelling fresh, be sure to choose a name brand instead of a store brand. Cheap imitations often overpower the entire space in pine, and it can saturate everything inside just as heavily as the musty stale odor you are trying to avoid. No scent is a good one if it is overwhelming.
Floral scent sachets have waned in popularity, but milder scents are becoming trendy again as new ideas are introduced that are less overwhelming. Although the name implies a wonderful walk through your flower garden, most floral scents more closely resemble those cans of bathroom freshener that we all avoid in the grocery store. Be wary of any scent that you cannot first smell for yourself, and consider a different selection if the scent seems strong at first. In cases like this, it is better to make a different choice than to be bowled over by the smell of cheap flowers later; and if you discover that the scent is acceptable later, sachets are very easy to swap out.
More modern ideas such as charcoal make a lot of sense if you want freshness without scent in your sachet. It may sound odd at first, but charcoal seems to soak up the scent without dispersing its own scent, meaning that you eliminate staleness and mustiness without adding any other scent. People with medical problems such as chronic illnesses made worse by scent, frequent headaches, allergy problems, and similar issues can choose to keep the closet fresh by using a charcoal sachet that neutralizes the odor. Charcoal is also a very eco-friendly idea, especially when combined with environmentally friendly packaging such as a bamboo sachet pillow or closet hanger.
Redecorating a home is always exciting; with new colors, styles and ideas to explore. No more so is this excitement to be found than when freshening up a bedroom, to create a perfect relaxing space. However, one area which is not often considered here is the closet dors.
In many ways this is surprising, as they are such an essential part of any bedroom. Indeed, for those that are on a budget, simply replacing the closet doors can afford a great new look. Naturally though, it is important that exactly the right look and style is chosen, whilst it is critical to make sure that they are the right dimensions for the space as well.
If replacing an older set, the first thing to do is to measure the height and the width of the closet doors. This is usually best done by removing them, and laying them out flat somewhere. This allows for the measurements to be taken accurately, and prevents any mistakes being made regards the tape measure slipping and the like.
If buying new furniture, the measurements should be provided by the staff in store and, they will be able to recommend on what types of door can be used. When deciding the many types available, it is worth considering how the space will be used.
For example, including mirrors into the equation can work extremely well; creating space and creating a focal point. In smaller rooms in particular this is an excellent idea; where there may not be enough wall space for a mirror to be hung independently.
Further than this, incorporating a mirror into sliding closet doors is a great look, and saves space as they do not have to open out into the room. Bi-folding options can also work very well to save space in much the same way, and some stunning effects can be achieved with these.
This is not the only clever way to work however, as much can be done with the inside of the doors too; incorporating space-saving ideas such as pockets into them. This will not work with sliding or bi fold of course, but with regular outward opening ones, they can be used to great effect.
There are a great many options available today, and there are some excellent deals to be had online in particular. If buying on the internet though, it is ever more essential that the measurements be right because, though returns can probably be made, it will create an awful lot of unnecessary hassle.
In many ways this is surprising, as they are such an essential part of any bedroom. Indeed, for those that are on a budget, simply replacing the closet doors can afford a great new look. Naturally though, it is important that exactly the right look and style is chosen, whilst it is critical to make sure that they are the right dimensions for the space as well.
If replacing an older set, the first thing to do is to measure the height and the width of the closet doors. This is usually best done by removing them, and laying them out flat somewhere. This allows for the measurements to be taken accurately, and prevents any mistakes being made regards the tape measure slipping and the like.
If buying new furniture, the measurements should be provided by the staff in store and, they will be able to recommend on what types of door can be used. When deciding the many types available, it is worth considering how the space will be used.
For example, including mirrors into the equation can work extremely well; creating space and creating a focal point. In smaller rooms in particular this is an excellent idea; where there may not be enough wall space for a mirror to be hung independently.
Further than this, incorporating a mirror into sliding closet doors is a great look, and saves space as they do not have to open out into the room. Bi-folding options can also work very well to save space in much the same way, and some stunning effects can be achieved with these.
This is not the only clever way to work however, as much can be done with the inside of the doors too; incorporating space-saving ideas such as pockets into them. This will not work with sliding or bi fold of course, but with regular outward opening ones, they can be used to great effect.
There are a great many options available today, and there are some excellent deals to be had online in particular. If buying on the internet though, it is ever more essential that the measurements be right because, though returns can probably be made, it will create an awful lot of unnecessary hassle.
Labels: Bedroom, Closet Doors, Closets, Doors
Get Organized With Custom Closets and Bathroom Storage Units
0 comments Posted by ariya at 6/28/2011You know how clutter works. First it's a sock or two, a T-shirt that didn't make it in the drawer. And then, before you know it, you're stepping over clothing left and right just to walk across your bedroom. What a mess! To avoid this situation, don't just clean up - get organized with custom closets, bathroom storage units, and other tools.
Have you ever heard the phrase "band aid for a bullet wound"? That's basically what cleaning is: a stopgap. You're picking up your items, folding them, putting them into drawers, but without closet organizer systems to keep you in check, you're eventually going to wind up with the same old mess on your hands. Getting organized allows you to break the cycle.
For example, let's suppose you pull clothes out of your hamper to separate the lights from the darks. You only have room for one load of laundry at the time, leaving a pile of darks (or lights) all over the floor. And then something good comes on TV, and your best friend calls you on the phone, and suddenly that second load doesn't seem so important. It just stays on the floor. For days.
Sound familiar?
Fortunately, laundry problems are very simple to fix - all you need is a wicker laundry hamper with sorting capabilities. A laundry sorter hamper will have separate compartments for lights and darks, allowing you to organize as you go instead of every once in a while when you decide to do laundry. Some of these wicker laundry hamper products even come with three or four compartments for other categories of clothing, like delicates.
Speaking of clothes, let's talk about closets. The phrase "custom closets" might sound expensive, but this is only describing customization that you can do yourself using closet organizer systems. You can buy a system with various configurations of shelves, drawers, and hangers, then move the different components around to perfectly fit your space. Whether you have a walk in closet or a teensy enclosure, you'll be able to find something that fits, since closet organizer systems come in all shapes and sizes.
To compliment your closet organizer systems, consider investing in some new closet hangers as well. You probably have a hodgepodge of cheap plastic hangers from clothing stores and bargain bins, but it's possible to upgrade to closet hangers that will help keep your clothes wrinkle free — they might even help you fit more in your closet!
There's one important room we can't forget, and that's the bathroom. Like closet organizer systems, bathroom storage units can help prevent clutter by assigning a place for all of your items. Some bathroom storage units are designed to hold your shampoo and body wash in the shower, while others can keep your hair dryer or curling iron in a safe, dry place. Alternatively, people looking for a major storage upgrade should check out larger bathroom storage units like cabinets and shelves.
Have you ever heard the phrase "band aid for a bullet wound"? That's basically what cleaning is: a stopgap. You're picking up your items, folding them, putting them into drawers, but without closet organizer systems to keep you in check, you're eventually going to wind up with the same old mess on your hands. Getting organized allows you to break the cycle.
For example, let's suppose you pull clothes out of your hamper to separate the lights from the darks. You only have room for one load of laundry at the time, leaving a pile of darks (or lights) all over the floor. And then something good comes on TV, and your best friend calls you on the phone, and suddenly that second load doesn't seem so important. It just stays on the floor. For days.
Sound familiar?
Fortunately, laundry problems are very simple to fix - all you need is a wicker laundry hamper with sorting capabilities. A laundry sorter hamper will have separate compartments for lights and darks, allowing you to organize as you go instead of every once in a while when you decide to do laundry. Some of these wicker laundry hamper products even come with three or four compartments for other categories of clothing, like delicates.
Speaking of clothes, let's talk about closets. The phrase "custom closets" might sound expensive, but this is only describing customization that you can do yourself using closet organizer systems. You can buy a system with various configurations of shelves, drawers, and hangers, then move the different components around to perfectly fit your space. Whether you have a walk in closet or a teensy enclosure, you'll be able to find something that fits, since closet organizer systems come in all shapes and sizes.
To compliment your closet organizer systems, consider investing in some new closet hangers as well. You probably have a hodgepodge of cheap plastic hangers from clothing stores and bargain bins, but it's possible to upgrade to closet hangers that will help keep your clothes wrinkle free — they might even help you fit more in your closet!
There's one important room we can't forget, and that's the bathroom. Like closet organizer systems, bathroom storage units can help prevent clutter by assigning a place for all of your items. Some bathroom storage units are designed to hold your shampoo and body wash in the shower, while others can keep your hair dryer or curling iron in a safe, dry place. Alternatively, people looking for a major storage upgrade should check out larger bathroom storage units like cabinets and shelves.
Where do you keep your shoes? In a heap under the kitchen table? In a pile by the front door? Perhaps it's time you explored the fascinating world of shoe closets. That's right - a closets for your shoes. And shopping for the right one is almost as much fun as shopping for the shoes that go in them.
Unlike closet organizers, a shoe closet is more than just a bunch of boxes glued together to make a shoe cubby. I have nothing against shoe cubbies, mind you. They can be a practical, inexpensive and functional addition for closet or bedroom. But nothing beats a nice piece of furniture. I'm not talking custom cabinets, here - that can be a very expensive proposition. However, there are alternatives that can stills be attractive amenities to your home.
Shoe closets are available in a plethora of styles, types, and finishes. There's sure to be one that appeals to you and that coordinates with your existing decor.
The bench types are functional and attractively upholstered with a shoe cubby in the base. They come in a variety of cushion patterns and colors, and materials including leather. I love their versatility. Because they come in a range of widths, they can easily be incorporated at the foot of just about any bed without taking up precious wall space. They're just as functional in a walk-in closet as they are in an entryway. Some even have sock drawers located just below the bench cushion.
There are also bench styles with drawers that pivot forward, just like the freestanding types with the same style drawer. (Those come in single to triple high units in various furniture styles and finishes. Most are "assembly required", so have a handyman ready if you're not good at following directions or handling a screwdriver.)
If you can't deal with neatly placing matching pairs of shoes on a shelf that folds into the bench, perhaps a basket type unit would suit you better. Multiple baskets that slide in and out of the base under the cushion(s) seem to work well for reforming slobs and training children, (ie. husbands and kids - sometimes indistinguishable from one another.) Each one gets their own basket and all they have to do is toss in their shoes. It may take a bit longer to find a pair, and you can't be picky about the bottoms of shoes touching the tops of others, but it's better than tripping over them as you walk through the front door.
For those with extra wall space, the double door type cabinets with built-in shoe cubby are a beautiful addition to your bedroom ensemble. You can get these in single door widths, too, but obviously, those don't hold as many shoes. Both widths are available with sock drawers above the shoe cabinet. For an organization junky, this is the coup de'tat: shoes and socks in the same place!
Of the myriad of choices in shoe closets, there is sure to be one that will turn out to be the best buy you've made since those purple Prada's were on sale at Neiman Marcus. Okay, so you get your shoes at Payless - you'll still wonder how you ever got along without this awesomely practical and totally cool looking piece of furniture.
Unlike closet organizers, a shoe closet is more than just a bunch of boxes glued together to make a shoe cubby. I have nothing against shoe cubbies, mind you. They can be a practical, inexpensive and functional addition for closet or bedroom. But nothing beats a nice piece of furniture. I'm not talking custom cabinets, here - that can be a very expensive proposition. However, there are alternatives that can stills be attractive amenities to your home.
Shoe closets are available in a plethora of styles, types, and finishes. There's sure to be one that appeals to you and that coordinates with your existing decor.
The bench types are functional and attractively upholstered with a shoe cubby in the base. They come in a variety of cushion patterns and colors, and materials including leather. I love their versatility. Because they come in a range of widths, they can easily be incorporated at the foot of just about any bed without taking up precious wall space. They're just as functional in a walk-in closet as they are in an entryway. Some even have sock drawers located just below the bench cushion.
There are also bench styles with drawers that pivot forward, just like the freestanding types with the same style drawer. (Those come in single to triple high units in various furniture styles and finishes. Most are "assembly required", so have a handyman ready if you're not good at following directions or handling a screwdriver.)
If you can't deal with neatly placing matching pairs of shoes on a shelf that folds into the bench, perhaps a basket type unit would suit you better. Multiple baskets that slide in and out of the base under the cushion(s) seem to work well for reforming slobs and training children, (ie. husbands and kids - sometimes indistinguishable from one another.) Each one gets their own basket and all they have to do is toss in their shoes. It may take a bit longer to find a pair, and you can't be picky about the bottoms of shoes touching the tops of others, but it's better than tripping over them as you walk through the front door.
For those with extra wall space, the double door type cabinets with built-in shoe cubby are a beautiful addition to your bedroom ensemble. You can get these in single door widths, too, but obviously, those don't hold as many shoes. Both widths are available with sock drawers above the shoe cabinet. For an organization junky, this is the coup de'tat: shoes and socks in the same place!
Of the myriad of choices in shoe closets, there is sure to be one that will turn out to be the best buy you've made since those purple Prada's were on sale at Neiman Marcus. Okay, so you get your shoes at Payless - you'll still wonder how you ever got along without this awesomely practical and totally cool looking piece of furniture.
Labels: Closets, Organization, Shoe Closets, Shoes, Storage
A Prior Warning
Taking care of your lovely closet is not at all a mammoth of a task, and you only need to do it once in two weeks or so. But again, if you forget to do that too, you might get your closet damaged sooner than you think. A damaged closet not only looks bad, but also can cause damage to the items stored in it. Most of the times as we store clothes in the closet, they are affected irreversibly when the closets are damaged. Rather than going through all this trouble, its better if we take into account the weekly maintenance of the closet organizer.
Things That Can Damage Your Closet
When we list down the things that can damage your closet, in that list, the first item would be water. Water can cause utmost damage to your closet organizer. Usually water can cause damage mostly to the wooden surfaces and the glued parts. Thus you have to make sure that your closet organizer doesn't get wet. Metal parts of organizer might not get rusted because of occasional encounter with water, but definitely a prolonged exposure might do a serious damage. Even if your closet gets wet, which usually happens, you must clean it as soon as possible. If you let the water stay, after sometime water seeps deep into the ply and gets absorbed by the wood. Moisture is the worst enemy for the wooden closet. Thus be careful when you're walking around in front of a closet having a cup of coffee, because water would be easier to clean than a blob of thick coffee.
Avoid putting wet clothes in the closet. This can elongate your closet's life by a very long time. Many a times when we get wet in rain, we remove our wet clothes and hang them or put them on the wooden closet, and when our kids come back from play after getting wet in muddy waters, we do the same. By doing so, you are giving enough time to the closet to absorb sufficient amount of water in order to get affected by fungus or dampness.
Always keep your closet at a good distance from either bathroom or washbasin. These are the areas where the moisture content is high. Keeping closet organizer near these areas expose them to a constant spray of water droplets, which eventually turn sour for the health of closet.
Things You Can Do To Save Your Closet Organizer
Airflow is the best friend for any wooden furniture, and so it is for your closet organizer too. Always make sure that the room in which you have kept the closet is always ventilated properly. Without proper flow of air, your closet is most likely to get dampened at places which is not exposed to air.
When you are either sweeping or cleaning your room, cover the closet with cloth, which would prevent it from catching dust. Also make sure you clean the interiors of the closet at least once in two weeks using the vacuum cleaner or by hand itself.
Rotate the position of closet at least once in 3-4 months. Its good to change the position of the closet so it gets introduced to better aerated locations within your home. By doing so, you would avoid damp or fungus attacking your closet. All in all, closet organizer is one important tidy machine which keeps your things organized.
Taking care of your lovely closet is not at all a mammoth of a task, and you only need to do it once in two weeks or so. But again, if you forget to do that too, you might get your closet damaged sooner than you think. A damaged closet not only looks bad, but also can cause damage to the items stored in it. Most of the times as we store clothes in the closet, they are affected irreversibly when the closets are damaged. Rather than going through all this trouble, its better if we take into account the weekly maintenance of the closet organizer.
Things That Can Damage Your Closet
When we list down the things that can damage your closet, in that list, the first item would be water. Water can cause utmost damage to your closet organizer. Usually water can cause damage mostly to the wooden surfaces and the glued parts. Thus you have to make sure that your closet organizer doesn't get wet. Metal parts of organizer might not get rusted because of occasional encounter with water, but definitely a prolonged exposure might do a serious damage. Even if your closet gets wet, which usually happens, you must clean it as soon as possible. If you let the water stay, after sometime water seeps deep into the ply and gets absorbed by the wood. Moisture is the worst enemy for the wooden closet. Thus be careful when you're walking around in front of a closet having a cup of coffee, because water would be easier to clean than a blob of thick coffee.
Avoid putting wet clothes in the closet. This can elongate your closet's life by a very long time. Many a times when we get wet in rain, we remove our wet clothes and hang them or put them on the wooden closet, and when our kids come back from play after getting wet in muddy waters, we do the same. By doing so, you are giving enough time to the closet to absorb sufficient amount of water in order to get affected by fungus or dampness.
Always keep your closet at a good distance from either bathroom or washbasin. These are the areas where the moisture content is high. Keeping closet organizer near these areas expose them to a constant spray of water droplets, which eventually turn sour for the health of closet.
Things You Can Do To Save Your Closet Organizer
Airflow is the best friend for any wooden furniture, and so it is for your closet organizer too. Always make sure that the room in which you have kept the closet is always ventilated properly. Without proper flow of air, your closet is most likely to get dampened at places which is not exposed to air.
When you are either sweeping or cleaning your room, cover the closet with cloth, which would prevent it from catching dust. Also make sure you clean the interiors of the closet at least once in two weeks using the vacuum cleaner or by hand itself.
Rotate the position of closet at least once in 3-4 months. Its good to change the position of the closet so it gets introduced to better aerated locations within your home. By doing so, you would avoid damp or fungus attacking your closet. All in all, closet organizer is one important tidy machine which keeps your things organized.
Labels: Closet Organizer, Closets, Maintenance
Closet tubing: what you can expect to find
Profiles and sizes
Closet tubing comes in a variety of shapes, sizes, materials, and colors. The most common shapes, or profiles, are round and oval. Round closet rod is sold in 1-1/16 inch diameter tube and 1-5/16 diameter tube. It can be purchased in steel, stainless steel, and aluminum.
Round closet rod generally carries more weight due to the shape of the tube and usually has a thicker wall. While either size is suitable for a closet, for maximum weight bearing capacity use 1-5/16 diameter rod.
Oval tube isn't truly oval in shape but more of an oblong rounded shape with two flat sides. It normally measures 15 x 30 mm or approximately 1-1/8 x 1-1/4 inches. Oval tube is manufactured in steel or aluminum.
Materials
Metal closet rod is available in Steel, Stainless Steel, and Aluminum. Steel is typically sold with a Polished Chrome finish; this is the most common closet rod material and finish. Its advantages are strength and durability at a lower price. Stainless Steel is typically sold with a satin or brushed finish. It offers the strength and durability of steel with the added advantage of rust and corrosion resistance. Stainless steel is ideal for humid and sea-side applications.
Aluminum is sold in a variety of anodized finishes. Anodizing is a process in which electricity is used to p roduce a hard and durable surface. Aluminum tubing is much lighter in weight but with a similar load bearing capacity to steel.
Evaluate your needs
Length - The first thing you should consider for your installation is the length of the closet rod. The length should be determined by measuring the wall to wall distance. Dry wall often has very slight waves or undulations in it so that the distance between walls may differ from one spot to another. For this reason it's important that you take your wall to wall measurement at the exact spot where the closet rod will be installed. Usually the closet rod is mounted at least 12 inches from the back wall. Having someone help you measure will make the job much easier and give you better results. If you need a closet rod over 8 feet long some profiles and finishes are available in extended lengths up to 12 feet.
Weight bearing needs - Next, decide what kind of clothing will be stored on your closet rod. While a mix of garments is expected in a normal closet, an Arizona wardrobe will be much different from a Minnesota wardrobe. Cold weather clothing will weigh a lot more and that should be taken into consideration. A closet rod in a coat closet will need to support a lot of heavy items while a closet rod in a nursery closet will not need to support much weight at all. Keep in mind that the longer the closet rod the more likely it is to sag when loaded with clothing. Center supports and shelf/rod brackets will keep the closet rod straight. As a general rule, closet rods under 5 feet don't require center support. For longer spans consider using center supports every 3 or 4 feet.
Finish - After the practical needs of your closet are determined you can concentrate on aesthetics. Profile shape, color, and finish should fit the décor of the closets and surrounding room. With so many choices available you should have no problem finding something to suit your taste.
Mounting Flanges
Mounting flanges are the supports that attach to the wall and hold your closet rod up. Each type of rod will have mounting flanges made specifically for it but there are common types of flanges used for all tubing. Open flanges are made with the top portion open like a "U" so the closet rod can be easily lifted out. Closed flanges completely encircle the end of the mounted closet rod and do not allow removal without unscrewing the flange from the wall. 32mm pinned flanges are made to work with 32mm systems or European closet systems. These are closet systems that have pre-drilled holes spaced at 32 millimeters running up and down the closet side panels. While 32mm flanges can also be screwed in place, this isn't necessary and foregoing screws allows adjustment of the closet rod up or down if you wish. 32mm flanges are available for round and oval tubing in open and closed variations.
Accounting for mounting flange space
Since the mounting flange may have a back-plate, the flange you use will determine the cut length of the rod. For instance, if the wall to wall measurement is 60 inches and you are using two open flanges you'll need to subtract ¼ inch from the total length of the rod. Each open flange has a 1/8 inch back plate. 1/8 + 1/8 = ¼ inch of space that will occupy the total length of 60 inches. Some closed flanges have an opening all the way through so that your closet rod will actually touch the wall. In this instance the rod itself could actually be 60 inches long. Be sure to find out what space your mounting flanges will take up and factor that into the total length of the application. Each flange has a cuff, the part that encloses and supports the end of the tube. The cuff will be between ½ inch and 1 inch deep. Keeping in mind the cuff depth you may want to cut the closet rod just slightly shorter to give yourself some "wiggle room".
Cutting closet tubing
While it is possible to cut closet tubing yourself it's usually worth it to pay a cutting charge if that service is provided by your supplier. If you do decide to cut it yourself use a saw blade made for cutting metal. Be sure to use your saw as directed by the manufacturer to prevent accidents!
Installation
Once you have everything measured and cut you may proceed with installation. This step will be easier with some assistance so get a friend to help. You've already made sure that your tubing is adequate for your closet, now you need to make sure that it's firmly and securely mounted in place. The mounting flanges are far more likely to tear loose from the wall than your closet rod is to bend so it's critical that this step is done correctly! If the closet rod is to be attached to dry-wall be sure that it is located so the screws go through the dry-wall and into a wall stud. Dry-wall alone is not sufficient as a mounting surface. If you're unable to screw into a stud, plan on using a wood mounting board on top of the wall. This should be firmly attached to the wall studs and will provide a suitable point of attachment for your mounting flanges. If you do use a mounting board remember to subtract its thickness from your wall to wall measurement when determining your closet rod length. Depending on the type of flange you're using, it may be screwed in place before the rod is set or it may need to be slid onto the rod prior to screwing in place.
Using Your closet
Once everything is in place you can start filling your closets. While metal tubing has a very durable finish it can scratch if used roughly. It's always a good idea to use quality hangers to protect your clothes and your closet rod. Plastic hangers will ensure that the finished surface remains scratch free. Wood and metal hangers are fine just as long as the hook has a smooth finished end. Wire dry cleaning hangers have sharp ends and should be avoided.
Profiles and sizes
Closet tubing comes in a variety of shapes, sizes, materials, and colors. The most common shapes, or profiles, are round and oval. Round closet rod is sold in 1-1/16 inch diameter tube and 1-5/16 diameter tube. It can be purchased in steel, stainless steel, and aluminum.
Round closet rod generally carries more weight due to the shape of the tube and usually has a thicker wall. While either size is suitable for a closet, for maximum weight bearing capacity use 1-5/16 diameter rod.
Oval tube isn't truly oval in shape but more of an oblong rounded shape with two flat sides. It normally measures 15 x 30 mm or approximately 1-1/8 x 1-1/4 inches. Oval tube is manufactured in steel or aluminum.
Materials
Metal closet rod is available in Steel, Stainless Steel, and Aluminum. Steel is typically sold with a Polished Chrome finish; this is the most common closet rod material and finish. Its advantages are strength and durability at a lower price. Stainless Steel is typically sold with a satin or brushed finish. It offers the strength and durability of steel with the added advantage of rust and corrosion resistance. Stainless steel is ideal for humid and sea-side applications.
Aluminum is sold in a variety of anodized finishes. Anodizing is a process in which electricity is used to p roduce a hard and durable surface. Aluminum tubing is much lighter in weight but with a similar load bearing capacity to steel.
Evaluate your needs
Length - The first thing you should consider for your installation is the length of the closet rod. The length should be determined by measuring the wall to wall distance. Dry wall often has very slight waves or undulations in it so that the distance between walls may differ from one spot to another. For this reason it's important that you take your wall to wall measurement at the exact spot where the closet rod will be installed. Usually the closet rod is mounted at least 12 inches from the back wall. Having someone help you measure will make the job much easier and give you better results. If you need a closet rod over 8 feet long some profiles and finishes are available in extended lengths up to 12 feet.
Weight bearing needs - Next, decide what kind of clothing will be stored on your closet rod. While a mix of garments is expected in a normal closet, an Arizona wardrobe will be much different from a Minnesota wardrobe. Cold weather clothing will weigh a lot more and that should be taken into consideration. A closet rod in a coat closet will need to support a lot of heavy items while a closet rod in a nursery closet will not need to support much weight at all. Keep in mind that the longer the closet rod the more likely it is to sag when loaded with clothing. Center supports and shelf/rod brackets will keep the closet rod straight. As a general rule, closet rods under 5 feet don't require center support. For longer spans consider using center supports every 3 or 4 feet.
Finish - After the practical needs of your closet are determined you can concentrate on aesthetics. Profile shape, color, and finish should fit the décor of the closets and surrounding room. With so many choices available you should have no problem finding something to suit your taste.
Mounting Flanges
Mounting flanges are the supports that attach to the wall and hold your closet rod up. Each type of rod will have mounting flanges made specifically for it but there are common types of flanges used for all tubing. Open flanges are made with the top portion open like a "U" so the closet rod can be easily lifted out. Closed flanges completely encircle the end of the mounted closet rod and do not allow removal without unscrewing the flange from the wall. 32mm pinned flanges are made to work with 32mm systems or European closet systems. These are closet systems that have pre-drilled holes spaced at 32 millimeters running up and down the closet side panels. While 32mm flanges can also be screwed in place, this isn't necessary and foregoing screws allows adjustment of the closet rod up or down if you wish. 32mm flanges are available for round and oval tubing in open and closed variations.
Accounting for mounting flange space
Since the mounting flange may have a back-plate, the flange you use will determine the cut length of the rod. For instance, if the wall to wall measurement is 60 inches and you are using two open flanges you'll need to subtract ¼ inch from the total length of the rod. Each open flange has a 1/8 inch back plate. 1/8 + 1/8 = ¼ inch of space that will occupy the total length of 60 inches. Some closed flanges have an opening all the way through so that your closet rod will actually touch the wall. In this instance the rod itself could actually be 60 inches long. Be sure to find out what space your mounting flanges will take up and factor that into the total length of the application. Each flange has a cuff, the part that encloses and supports the end of the tube. The cuff will be between ½ inch and 1 inch deep. Keeping in mind the cuff depth you may want to cut the closet rod just slightly shorter to give yourself some "wiggle room".
Cutting closet tubing
While it is possible to cut closet tubing yourself it's usually worth it to pay a cutting charge if that service is provided by your supplier. If you do decide to cut it yourself use a saw blade made for cutting metal. Be sure to use your saw as directed by the manufacturer to prevent accidents!
Installation
Once you have everything measured and cut you may proceed with installation. This step will be easier with some assistance so get a friend to help. You've already made sure that your tubing is adequate for your closet, now you need to make sure that it's firmly and securely mounted in place. The mounting flanges are far more likely to tear loose from the wall than your closet rod is to bend so it's critical that this step is done correctly! If the closet rod is to be attached to dry-wall be sure that it is located so the screws go through the dry-wall and into a wall stud. Dry-wall alone is not sufficient as a mounting surface. If you're unable to screw into a stud, plan on using a wood mounting board on top of the wall. This should be firmly attached to the wall studs and will provide a suitable point of attachment for your mounting flanges. If you do use a mounting board remember to subtract its thickness from your wall to wall measurement when determining your closet rod length. Depending on the type of flange you're using, it may be screwed in place before the rod is set or it may need to be slid onto the rod prior to screwing in place.
Using Your closet
Once everything is in place you can start filling your closets. While metal tubing has a very durable finish it can scratch if used roughly. It's always a good idea to use quality hangers to protect your clothes and your closet rod. Plastic hangers will ensure that the finished surface remains scratch free. Wood and metal hangers are fine just as long as the hook has a smooth finished end. Wire dry cleaning hangers have sharp ends and should be avoided.
Labels: Closet Rods, Closets, Installing
Ordering anything online can be a little scary, and ordering a custom product can be even more challenging. Here are a few suggestions to make ordering custom closets online a little easier and more secure.
1. Get familiar with your closet layout. Take exact measurements of each wall including the height of each wall. If the ceiling height varies in your closet, determine exactly where the change occurs. For wall widths, take measurements at both the floor level and at the highest level you can reach, and if you want to be extra careful take measurements mid-way. You'll want to use the smallest of these measurements when designing your closet, since this is the most restrictive dimension.
2. Make a simple sketch of your closet using a heavy lead pencil or pen and notate the measurements of each wall. You don't necessarily need to make your sketch to scale, but that would help you understand the potential of your closet.
3. Now that you have a sketch of your closet's layout start thinking about a logical floor plan. When designing your floor plan be realistic about the size of your space and any obstacles in your closet. Most people tend to over design a closet space in a effort to maximize storage area. Don't make a plan that blocks a door from swinging completely open or would create a cramped space. Better to move items to another storage area than create a tight and difficult closet. Remember that hanging clothes need at least 24 inches of depth and the minimum shelf depth for folded clothes is 12 inches.
4. When you have your closet floor plan finished begin assessing what type of articles you need to store in your closet and how much space you need for each type. Most people need more space for hanging clothes followed by folded clothes, shoes, purses and dirty laundry respectively. Determine if you want to have drawers in your closet and how many you need. Having drawers in your closet can free-up additional space in your bedroom.
5. Now that you have a rough ideal what you are going to store and how you are going to store it, it's time to create your closet design. The best way to do that is to find an online design program that can can design your closet to-scale. Several closet companies have online design programs geared to their individual products. Some of these online programs are very complicated and take some time to learn, but there are also some easy to use programs.
6. You need to design your closet one wall at a time. However, you also need to consider how the designs on each wall will meet at the corners, in walk-in closets. Some online design programs don't connect closets at the corners because of style of the product they offer. It's better to use companies that offer closet systems that utilize all of your closet space including the corners. After you find a program that you like start designing.
7. Some professional designer tips:
Try to create a balanced and visually appealing design. You're investing your time and money, be sure you like the finished product.
Locate drawers at the center of your closet design, directly across from the door so they are the first thing you see when entering the closet. Drawers make a good visual focal point and they typically need the extra clearance provided by the central location.
Use the corners for hanging space not shelves. Corner shelves are sometimes too deep and clothes get lost, but corners work well for hanging clothes.
Don't underestimate how much space you require for hanging clothes, and don't plan too much area for long hanging. With today's fashions most people don't need more than 12 to 24 horizontal inches of long hanging space.
8. Now that you have the perfect closet design let's talk about the products available online.
The Material- Almost all of the online closet companies use particle board with a melamine laminate veneer finish. Particle board is a very versatile and inexpensive material primarily used for the manufacture of low-end furniture. Unfortunately, particle board can also be brittle and vulnerable to moisture. The only company currently offering an alternative material is Speedy closets. These components are constructed using MDF (medium density fiberboard) over a real wood frame. This is the same type of system used for the doors in your home. The system is very strong and highly resistant to moisture. All online closet companies use a melamine veneer as the surface material. Keep in mind the quality of melamine varies from the paper thin stuff you see on the cheap furniture from big box retailers, to high impact resistant melamine that looks and feels like real wood.
Closet Systems- Most of the online closet companies offer very similar style closet systems. These systems are usually held together using plastic fasteners and are hung on the wall like a kitchen cabinet without doors and the shelves are typically adjustable. The disadvantage to adjustable shelves are the hundreds of unattractive holes that line the interior of the closet sides. High quality custom closets never have numerous visible holes on the surface. Speedy Closets offers a floor based closet system with no visible holes lining the interior of sides and the highest quality melamine veneer online.
Price - Be sure you are getting an acceptable quality for the price of your closet. Compare the price from at least two online companies for similar closets systems. Be sure that you are also comparing similar quality products. While price is important, make sure the final product will be acceptable to you. Conversely, if you don't plan on staying in your present residence for long, perhaps you don't need to be concerned about the durability of particle board or wall hung closet systems. However, if you are concerned about aesthetics and quality of your closet system, be sure to do your research on the materials and style of closet you want.
Installation - Installing a closet can be a difficult and time consuming task even for someone handy with tools. If you have large closets you could find yourself sorting literally hundred of parts and spending days assembling your system. However, there are several companies that offer pre-assembled closets at no additional cost. With pre-assembled closets you can install your system in a fraction of the time and usually without any power equipment. Regardless of which type of system you order, always secure your closet to the wall using the hardware provided with the kit.With these insider tips you should be better equipped to order your custom closet online.
Labels: Closets, Closets online, Custom closets, Order
Custom Closets Can Quickly Eliminate Clutter and Organize Your Closets
0 comments Posted by ariya at 4/26/2011People who live in older homes can often become frustrated with their closet spaces since previous generations simply didn't use closets the way we do nowadays. For one thing the closets in older houses tend to lack depth and be quite small. Also there is usually only one pole for hangers and maybe a few hooks. Trying to fit all of your belongings, shoes, coats, hats, and clothes into the tiny space, let alone organizing it usually is a disastrous experience. Custom closets are extremely popular because they offer a solution to the frustration of crammed, messy closet spaces. With just a bit of planning and small cash investment you can easily and very quickly de-clutter your closets and create organized, easily accessible closet spaces.
Custom organizing closets didn't become popular until the early 1980's. They actually owe their popularity to a few companies who created their businesses around the idea that using a different method for how people stored the items in their closets could make their closets much more efficient and easy to use. Based on the success of these companies many other business ventures, both large and small have hopped on board to offer homeowners a ton of closet service choices to choose from. In addition, a number of other companies have opted to focus on the do-it-yourself type homeowners with a wide array of ideas, tools and accessories to revitalize their cluttered closet to a model of organized storage use.
Companies that specialize in organizing closet spaces generally provide closet system design. Using their services is easy. You just schedule an appointment for a free in home consult. When the consultant arrives at your home they will measure your closet spaces, inventory the items you wish to store there and discuss any other needs you may have regarding your closet. After reviewing this data they will then recommend a system they think will give you the best closet for your needs.
Before you call for your custom closets free in home consultation, you need to take a few actions to prep for the meeting. If you're like most people, there are many things in your closet that you no longer need. There's simply no reason to pay money just to store items you're never going to use. If you remove all the unnecessary stuff that has piled up in your closet it will save you time and money on your new closet system. Remove anything you don't absolutely love or haven't used in a year or more. You will probably have a few things that have sentimental value that you'll want to keep - like your wedding dress. No matter how old it is, it is okay to keep it. Just think about whether it really needs to be in the closet. Perhaps it can be boxed and stored in a different location. Now when the consultant arrives they will only be taking an inventory of what you really need to store and have easy access to. Custom closet organizers provide a really good service; but there are also a number of companies have developed products that let you do the job yourself. If you have a really small closet or limited storage needs, it could be smarter to consider completing the project yourself. If you're fairly handy you could easily complete a closet rehab project with very little expense.
With a bigger closet, it will probably be best to have a pro do the installation for you so know it is done right the first time. A professional installer will give you a complete closet transformation. You will get the closets of your dreams with no real effort required from you. A pro can overhaul your entire system from the bifold closet doors to the very tiniest detail. Commonly added organizational items include things like shoe racks, pull out drawers for sweaters and socks, shelving units, and tiered clothing hangers.
The cost for custom closets vary widely. Pricing can range from several hundred dollars to several thousand depending on the size of your closet and the features you choose to have installed. Before signing any type of agreement for the sale, make sure you ask these critical questions:
• Is there a warranty provided with your service?
• Will you be using plastic or metal hardware?
• What is the depth of the shelves?
• Will the price of installation include getting rid of the old closet?
• Is paint touch ups and dry wall if needed included in the job?
Once you have selected the right plan and features it is time to get started. If this is going to be a do-it yourself job, you will need to set aside a weekend for properly completing the installation. If you're having your new closet professionally installed, you simply need to schedule the install date. It's best to schedule the project for a day when you can be home to answer questions if needed.
After the project is completed, it is time to take a step back and soak in the beauty of your new closet. Now everything in there has a place, and even better, everything is in its place.
Tag : closets,custom closets,organize,clutter
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