Closet space is one thing that you never seem to have enough of. Especially is you live in a smaller or older home.

If your belongings are spilling out everywhere, then you most likely need a closet makeover. Some planning and a few changes will net you some prime storage real estate and help you finally get organized.

Think vertically

Stand in your closet and look up. If you see empty space, you have an opportunity to take advantage of it with hanging racks, pegs or hooks.

Use adjustable shelving

Why use a tall shelf when a shorter one will do just fine? When you have shelves that you can customize, you might be able to salvage enough wall space for a whole new shelf.

Separate the seasons

If you live in an area that experiences cold winters, you may be able to split your wardrobe and store items in another location when you’re not using them.

Declutter and purge

If you don’t have enough room, something may have to go. Just think of it this way, if you haven’t used that bowling ball, pair of mittens or electric blanket in a while, it may be time to share the bounty by donating to Goodwill or your local shelter. Someone will benefit from your generosity, and you can console yourself with the tax write-off.

Go with baskets

Wicker baskets are an inspired storage solution that will corral your small items and organize your larger ones. They’ll streamline your shelves and liberate your floor space, too. If you don’t remember the color of the carpet in your closet and your shelves are prone to occasional accessory avalanches, baskets will save the day.

Organize

You knew this part was inevitable: having to pull everything out, sort it into piles and put stuff into some logical order. Organization will help you maximize a small closet by encouraging you to keep like items together.

Shoe Storage

Over the door, on the floor, on hangers or under the bed, shoe racks can be lifesavers. Properly stored shoes will look better longer and you won’t be wasting time with one shoe in your hand and the other, well, who knows where.

Specialized hangers

When you use creative hanger solutions, like tiered hangers that let you stack clothes conveniently, you can sometimes double or even triple your useful space.