Master School Mornings With a Well-Organized Closet System

Let's be honest—mornings with kids can be a whirlwind. Between breakfast, backpacks, and the inevitable last-minute permission slip search, the scramble to get out the door feels like an Olympic sport. Luckily, there’s a secret weapon waiting to be unleashed: a well-organized closet system. Here are my top tips for streamlining those hectic school mornings with a well-organized closet system:

• Categorize like a pro
• Embrace adjustable hanging rods
• Use drawer dividers to your advantage
• Leverage the power of pull-out hampers
• Keep shoes organized
• Get clever with hooks
• Designate a “grab-and-go” section
• Invest in easy-access storage
• Embrace the label maker
• Schedule regular “closet clean-ups”

A customized closet system specifically designed for your family's needs can be a game-changer, transforming those frantic mornings into a smooth and stress-free routine—here’s how.

Categorize Like a Pro

Divide your child's closet into sections like shirts, pants, dresses, and pajamas. Help them sort their clothes by type and then consider further dividing them within each category (long sleeves vs. short sleeves, fancy dresses vs. play dresses). For younger children, colorful labels with pictures can be a fun way to identify different sections – a smiley face for pajamas, a sock for sock drawers, etc.

Embrace Adjustable Hanging Rods

Adjustable hanging rods are a lifesaver. As your child grows, simply adjust the height of the rod to accommodate longer dresses or jackets. This not only eliminates the frustration of clothes dragging on the floor, but it also helps kids locate the items they need without assistance. For shared closets, multiple adjustable rods at different heights are fantastic for siblings of varying ages.

Use Drawer Dividers to Your Advantage

Invest in drawer dividers to separate clothes and accessories, like adjustable dividers for flexibility as your child grows. Small compartments for socks and underwear eliminate the morning sock hunt. Consider color-coding socks, so finding a matching pair becomes a simple visual task, even for little ones.

Leverage the Power of Pull-Out Hampers

Laundry day seems like a battle in most households. Pull-out hampers built directly into the closet encourage kids to put away dirty clothes, saving you the post-shower sock search. If multiple children share a room, consider color-coded hampers to make laundry sorting a breeze.

Keep Shoes Organized

A custom shoe fence or shoe rack keeps footwear neatly organized and readily accessible. Choose a design that caters to your family's needs: open shelving for everyday sneakers, closed cubbies for boots and more delicate shoes, or even slanted shelves that make it easy for kids to see and choose a pair.

If you don’t have the budget to go custom, there are several off-the-shelf options you can find at local big-box stores. HGTV suggests an affordable option that’s kid-friendly, too—a simple two-tier shoe shelf on the closet floor. It’s accessible, easy to clean, and gets the job done when it comes to budget-friendly shoe storage.

Get Clever With Hooks

Don't underestimate the power of hooks. They're perfect for hanging backpacks, jackets, belts, or even tomorrow's pre-selected outfit. Install them at a child-friendly height, empowering them to independently manage their coats and bags without relying on adult help.

Designate a "Grab-and-Go" Station

Create a dedicated area for frequently used items. Think hats, scarves, and mittens in the winter or sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat in the summer. Having a designated spot for specific accessories eliminates last-minute searches and ensures everything is ready when it's time to head out the door.

Invest in Easy-Access Storage

Consider lower shelves, cubbies, or open baskets for items your child can reach independently. This fosters a sense of responsibility in getting themselves dressed and allows them to choose their outfit with confidence. Bonus: You'll avoid those early-morning pleas for help.

Embrace the Label Maker

Living with kids over the years, I’ve found that labels can be so helpful. Label shelves, drawers, and even hooks with clear and concise descriptions. For pre-readers, use simple pictures along with the words. This makes navigating the closet a breeze, especially for younger children, and cuts down on those “I can't find it!” meltdowns.

Schedule Regular “Closet Clean-Ups”

Dedicate a few minutes each week to decluttering your child's closet. Together, donate or sell outgrown clothes, and pack away seasonal items until they're needed again. This keeps the closet organized, prevents clutter from accumulating, and makes those mornings run even smoother.

Conclusion

Don't underestimate the power of a well-designed closet system. It might seem like a small detail, but trust me, it can make a world of difference in your family's morning routine. From adjustable shelving to pull-out hampers, custom organizers can transform your current closet chaos into a space of organization—and maybe even grant you a few extra minutes of peace and quiet in the morning. Who could argue with that?

Source

• https://www.hgtv.com/design/remodel/interior-remodel/shoe-storage-and-organization-ideas