Closet Organization Tools I Actually Use (and Recommend)
You’re Not Storing Your Clothes—You’re Highlighting Them
One of the most common questions I get after we talk about cleaning out and decluttering our closets is: When do we get to organize?
You’ve decluttered. You’ve made space. You’ve maybe even tossed that one pair of shoes you’ve hated for years (I’m proud of you). But now you’re staring at what’s left, and it’s… still a little chaotic. Or uninspiring. Or just not all that helpful.
Here’s the thing: you don’t want to jump into organizing too soon. Don’t buy bins, dividers, or hangers until you’ve done the editing. There’s no point in organizing clothes you’re not even planning to keep.
And when you do start thinking about organizing, I want you to shift your mindset. You’re not storing your clothes—you’re highlighting them. You’re making it easier to see, access, and actually wear the things you love. That’s the whole point.
So today, I’m rounding up the closet organizing tools I actually use. These are the simple, not-too-expensive systems I’ve recommended to clients over the years—and still rely on in my own home. None of it’s revolutionary, but it is the kind of thing that makes getting dressed easier.
This post is a free companion to my latest blog post on The Well Dressed Life:
👉 25 Things to Declutter From Your Closet in 2025
If you haven’t read that yet, it’s an easy-to-digest reminder of the things hanging in your closet right now that you probably don’t need. I promise there’s something on that list you can check off in five minutes.
The Hangers I Swear By (Yes, These Matter)
If you only change one thing in your closet, let it be your hangers.
Velvet Slim Hangers
They save space, your clothes won’t slide off, and everything just looks more cohesive. I switched to these years ago and haven’t looked back.
→ Shop My Favorite Velvet Hangers
Wooden Hangers for Heavier Items
For coats, structured jackets, or anything with weight to it, I like a classic wooden hanger. They hold shape better and feel a little more intentional.
→ Sturdy Wood Hangers That Last
Storage Bins I Actually Like (and Use)
I’ve tried a lot of bins. Too many bins. These are the ones I actually keep in rotation.
Neutral Fabric Storage Bins with Lids
I use these for off-season items—like sweaters and heavy scarves in summer, or swimsuits in the winter—anything I don’t need daily access to. They’re structured and stack easily, so they look neat on a shelf.
→ Shop the Set I Use on Amazon
Soft Fabric Bins
These are great for scarves, belts, or accessories you don’t reach for every day but still want easy access to. The trapeze shape makes it easy to see what’s inside without digging around. I use a few to organize my own workout pieces—and in my husband’s closet, they’re perfect for sorting his socks without everything getting jumbled together.
→ Neutral Fabric Bins (Set of 6)
Under-the-Bed Storage Bags
Not revolutionary, but so helpful—especially if you’re working with a small closet. These are great for bulkier pieces like puffer coats or knitwear you won’t need until next season.
→ Low-Profile Zip Storage Bags
Drawer Dividers That Keep Things From Turning Into Chaos
My drawers used to be an avalanche of leggings, camisoles, and socks. These help.
Expandable Bamboo Dividers
They adjust to your drawer size and create clear sections. I use mine for jeans, tees, and activewear, and I actually keep it that way (mostly).
→ Adjustable Bamboo Drawer Dividers
Small Drawer Organizing
These are a small thing that make a big difference. I use them for bras, underwear, socks—anything that tends to get jumbled or shoved to the back of the drawer. They keep everything visible and easy to grab, and they somehow make folding feel … satisfying?
Little Extras That Make a Big Difference
These aren’t necessary, but they make life feel slightly more pulled together—and I’ll take the wins where I can get them.
Over-the-Door Hook Rack
I think the back of every door should have a hook. It’s one of those small, inexpensive upgrades that just makes life easier. Use it for tomorrow’s outfit, that sweatshirt you keep taking on and off all day, or anything you don’t want to toss on the chair… or the stationary bike… or the floor.
Hanging Shelf Organizer
If your closet doesn’t have built-ins or you’re short on drawer space this adds structure. You can use them for jeans, joggers, or sweaters that you don’t want to hang.
→ Soft Shelf Hanging Organizer
Dry Erase Basket Labels
I love these metal clip-on labels for bins and baskets. They help everyone in the house remember where things go—and they make the space look clean and consistent.
→ Shop the Dry Erase Labels I Use
Donation Bag
I keep a slim laundry bag tucked in the back of each of our closets—especially helpful with kids who seem to outgrow things overnight. But you can use whatever you have on hand: an old tote, a plastic bin, even a paper shopping bag. The key is to make it easy. When it’s full, it goes straight to donation. No second guessing. No tossing things back in the drawer “just in case.”
Acrylic Purse Organizer
If your handbags are currently slouched together on a shelf—or worse, stuffed in a bin—this is a really simple fix. These adjustable dividers help keep everything upright, separated, and easy to see. I use them for medium sizes handbags, crossbodies, and small clutches.
→ Shop the Acrylic Purse Organizer I Use
Clear Shelf Dividers
If your shelves are one big jumble of stacked sweaters or jeans that tip over every time you grab something, these are a small but game-changing fix. They clip right onto your shelf and create instant structure.
→ Shop the Clear Shelf Dividers I Use
Shoe Slot Organizers
If you’re short on space (or just tired of shoes piling up), these double-decker organizers are a smart fix. They basically let each pair stack on itself, which means you can fit twice as many shoes in the same amount of space. Ideal for sneakers, flats, or sandals—just not your heeled boots.
→ Shop the 20-Pack Shoe Slot Organizers
Final Thought
You don’t need to spend a fortune—or overhaul your entire closet in one weekend. These tools work no matter your pace and help create a clean, neutral space that supports your day-to-day life. They make it easier to get dressed, reduce decision fatigue, and add a sense of calm to your mornings.
A beautiful closet that doesn’t function isn’t the point. The goal is something that looks good and works for you—where everything has a place, your favorites are easy to find, and your wardrobe highlights the version of you you are right now.
Because here’s the thing:
You’re not storing your clothes—you’re highlighting them.
This isn’t about hiding pieces away in bins or drawers. It’s about putting your wardrobe front and center, so the things you love (and actually wear) are easy to see, easy to reach, and ready to make your life easier.
And if it looks a little more polished along the way? Even better.
And if you haven’t yet—start here:
👉 25 Things to Declutter From Your Closet in 2025
Let me know if you use any of these—or if there’s something I should try. I always love a good organizing tip.
xx,
Meg
I love these plastic boots shapers - they keep my tall boots standing tall, go mostly flat when not in use, and since there's no tension like a spring keeping them in place, I feel like they don't stretch out the shafts of my boots. Including a link below to the ones I've had for years, but please edit/update with one of your links.
https://a.co/d/fTo4omP
I had been overweight most of my life and in my hometown of Butte, Montana, there were never any places to purchase plus size clothing. When I moved to Salt Lake City, there were tons of places to buy plus sizes so I went way overboard. Now I have lost 173 pounds and am loving being able to buy regular size clothes. There are a couple of things you’ve suggested like the slim velvet hangers! They were a game changer for me. I’ve also used the clear shelf separators and they are awesome too. Thank you for all your suggestions and advice.