12 steps to completely organize a coat closet from start to finish to make it beautiful and functional + free printable labels.
If you want to reduce stress in your daily routine, start by organizing that neglected entryway closet stuffed with coats and winter gear. Because it’s the last thing you touch before leaving and the first thing you see when you come home, this space deserves attention. A tidy, functional coat closet improves flow and makes daily comings and goings smoother.
I have just two moods during decluttering season:
1. I want to do everything except tackle a closet…
2. Organize all the things.
I finally addressed this monstrous entry closet and it was worth the effort.
12 Steps to Organize a Functional Coat Closet
Taking a little time to set up an efficient storage system will pay off every day. The process is straightforward and leaves the closet looking neat and welcoming.
1. Remove Everything From the Entire Closet
Start with a completely empty space. Pull everything out — coats, bins, shoes, odds and ends. Working from a blank slate gives you perspective on the actual space and what is worth keeping. Lay items out where you can sort them easily.
2. Give the Walls a Fresh Paint Job
A fresh coat of paint brightens the closet and helps eliminate musty odors. Choose a color that complements your entryway or go dark for contrast; either way, paint refreshes the space and makes hardware and baskets stand out.
3. Be Realistic About Each Family Member’s Needs
Sort through items with practicality in mind. If a coat, pair of shoes, or accessory hasn’t been used in the past year, consider donating or storing it elsewhere. Keeping only what you use creates breathing room and reduces clutter long-term.
4. Categorize Like Items
Create categories such as coats, hats, gloves, scarves, shoes, workout gear, and gift wrap. Grouping like items helps you estimate how many baskets and shelves you’ll need, and speeds up daily routines since everything will have a designated home.
5. Measure the Closet
Measure height, width, and depth, and keep those numbers handy on your phone. Knowing exact dimensions prevents wasted trips and ensures that shelves, cubbies, and bins will fit without awkward gaps or overhangs.
6. Replace Wire Shelving
Swap flimsy wire shelving for a solid wood shelf and a sturdy hanging rod. A continuous shelf with a proper rod provides better support for heavy coats and creates a cleaner look.
7. Use Fabric Bins for Clothing Accessories
Small items like gloves, hats, and scarves are best contained in fabric bins or baskets. Choose attractive containers so the space looks tidy and inviting, and use the vertical top shelf to keep them out of the way while still accessible.
8. Utilize a Side Wall for Shoe Storage
Side walls are often underused. Install a shoe shelf or narrow cubby against a side wall to keep shoes organized without taking up central floor space. This keeps the main area clear and makes pairs easy to find.
9. Store Larger Items in Baskets on the Floor
Reserve the floor for larger baskets containing sports equipment, backpacks, or seasonal items. Low baskets keep things contained but reachable for kids and adults alike, and they hide visual clutter for a tidy appearance.
10. Add Clear, Attractive Labels
Labels remove confusion and make it simple for everyone to return items to the right spot. Use small tags or printed labels for bins and baskets to indicate contents like “Hats,” “Gloves,” or “Gift Wrap.” Labels encourage family members and guests to keep the closet organized.
11. Use Matching Hangers
Matching hangers immediately improve the look of a closet and help coats hang evenly. Non-slip velvet-style hangers are especially useful for keeping slippery jackets in place and maximizing rod space.
12. Store Reusable Shopping Bags and Gift Wrap
Put walls to work by adding wall baskets or hooks to hold reusable shopping bags, wrapping paper, and gift bags. Hanging baskets keep rolls of wrapping paper upright and small bags accessible so you can grab what you need while heading out the door.
Although it can be hard to get started, organizing this small space pays back every day with easier routines and a welcoming entry. Once complete, you’ll find getting out the door feels that much smoother.
Coat Closet Organizing Sources
- Paint color: Kilz Rebel
- Shoe cubby (we used two stacked units)
- White woven bins for smaller accessories
- Lidded floor baskets (large and medium sizes)
- Wall baskets for gift wrap and shopping bags
- Velvet non-slip hangers
- Label tags for bins and baskets
Now there’s a place for guests to hang coats without causing clutter — and it feels good to open the door to a tidy, functional entryway.
More Closet Organizing Ideas
- 30 Genius DIY IKEA Pax Closet Makeover Hack Ideas
- Bathroom Linen Closet Organization Ideas That Totally Work
- 10 Small Closet Organizing Ideas for Girls
- The Ultimate Closet Clean-Out Cheat Sheet
