8 Closet Organizing Rules That Are Working Against You

There’s a lot of advice swirling around out there, especially when it comes to keeping a tidy, organized home. And while a lot of advice is great, trying to follow every tidbit of wisdom might just send you into a tizzy. To help cut through some of the noise, we figured we’d give you complete and total permission to ignore some of the most common closet organizing “rules” that, in the end, just might not be necessary. 

There’s No Need to Organize By Color

Sure, it’s aesthetically pleasing, but you can reap the rewards of a perfectly organized closet without having to go through the hassle of color-coding everything. “The most important function of a closet is for you to get dressed quickly and efficiently,” says Wendy Trunz, head organizer at Jane’s Addiction Organization. “You can organize by sleeve length, style, season, fabric—whatever works best for you. The best strategies maintain themselves.” 

You Don’t Need to Force Minimalism 

Minimalism sure is trendy these days, but let’s be honest: It’s not for everyone. And being a minimalist doesn’t necessarily translate to a well-organized closet. 

“Having a less-is-more approach to life comes naturally to some individuals while others can feel stress and judgment trying to meet that goal,” says Laura Morris, feng shui expert and co-author of Mindful Living. “Closets and the items inside them are reflections of your personal energy, meaning there are different versions of an organized closet. For example, many people find joy in filling every part of their storage spaces—and beyond—with cherished and collected pieces.”

Don’t Toss Everything You Haven’t Worn Within the Year

A common “rule” when organizing closets is to donate any item you haven’t worn for the last year. This applies to a lot of clothes, but not everything. “This might work if you only buy trendy, inexpensive clothes,” says Jane Stoller, organizing expert and founder of Organized Jane. “A lot of people purchase timeless pieces that are meant to be worn, but sometimes we might take a year off from a piece or two. Do not donate your quality, timeless, investment pieces if they have not been worn within a year.” 

Matching Hangers Aren’t a Requirement

Again, this is one of these aesthetic closet organizing rules that isn’t always feasible or convenient for people. Why add more junk to the landfill by tossing out perfectly usable items? Plus, some hangers work well for certain garments while other hangers are better for different types of clothing. 

“For instance, for heavy coats in an entry closet, thinner felt hangers tend to break,” Trunz says. “If you prefer hanging your pants in full length with wooden pants hangers, then do it. Sometimes certain hangers work best for certain clothing so use what you love and what works best for you.”

Stop Organizing By Category 

This advice might make some of your heads spin, but don’t write it off so quickly: Organizing your closet by category—pants, shoes, dresses, etc—might not be the best approach. 

“These days, our styles must be functional and we do not want to have time to waste pulling from a specific category,” Stoller says. “Consider organizing by occasion or lifestyle categories—work, casual, exercise, evening. This approach helps you get dressed more easily and keeps your closet aligned with your daily routine.” 

You can also try a capsule wardrobe approach, grouping items into mini collections that work well together. Group full outfits together for a polished look; it saves a lot of time and reduces stress.

Don’t Feel Like You Have to Fill Your Closet With Options

While minimalism isn’t for everyone, there truly is such a thing as having too much. Stoller says to buck the advice of having tons of options and instead really focusing on the pieces you love and reach for time and again. Owning too many clothes can just result in decision fatigue when you open up the closet, she argues. 

“These days we have too much stuff, including clothes—overconsumption is a big problem,” Stoller says. If you like to keep things fresh, she recommends renting. “There are so many rental options for gowns to businesswear, and they will never outstay their welcome in your closet.” 

No Need to Put “Forgotten” Items in the Front 

One piece of closet organization advice says you should put all your least-worn items front and center so you don’t forget about them. Sounds smart in theory, but professional organizer Ellen Marie Bennett says this advice is just plain silly. “You’re just making it more difficult to find and put back the items you reach for to wear the most frequently,” she argues. “Keep your most frequently worn items easily accessible in your closet.” 

Don’t Lean On Overflow Storage Spots 

The thing about “extra closet” or “under the bed” storage is that these become destinations for clothing and accessories you probably don’t—and won’t—use much.  The only time this approach might make sense is if you have a very tiny space and are storing seasonal items rotated back into the closet throughout the year.

“In my experience, many people use these as places for things they want to forget about and get out of sight,” Morris says. “While there is nothing wrong with optimizing your home’s storage capacity, you need to be mindful of what you are placing under the spot you sleep in.” If it’s not being used, it’s probably run its course in your life.