What Shouldn’t Be in Your Primary Closet (And What to Do When Space Is Tight)

Your primary closet should be a functional, organized space where getting dressed each day is a breeze. However, it’s easy for it to become a catch-all for items that don’t belong, leading to clutter and frustration. While a closet should house only clothing, shoes, and accessories, many people end up stuffing it with everything from holiday decorations to workout equipment.

If you’re ready to reclaim your space, here’s a list of what shouldn’t be in your primary closet—along with smart solutions for those with limited storage.

1. Old, Unworn, or Outdated Clothing

 If you haven’t worn something in over a year, it doesn’t deserve prime real estate in your closet. Items that don’t fit, are damaged, or simply don’t align with your current style should be donated, sold, or repurposed.

Exception: If you’re storing seasonal clothing and have limited space elsewhere, use vacuum-sealed bags and store in guest closet on a high shelf in your closet.

2. Bulky Bedding and Linens 

Extra comforters, pillows, and sheet sets take up valuable closet space. Instead, store them in a linen closet or under-bed storage bins.

Exception: If you have nowhere else to put them, consider placing them in space-saving bags on a high shelf in your closet.

3. Luggage and Travel Bags 

Suitcases and duffel bags take up unnecessary space in a primary closet. It's best to store them in a guest room, attic, or garage. Avoid keeping luggage under the bed, as it symbolizes movement, travel, and unfinished business, which can interfere with the peaceful and calming energy in your bedroom, possibly impacting your sleep and overall well-being.

Exception: If your home lacks storage, consider storing smaller travel bags inside larger suitcases and placing them on a high shelf or in a corner of the closet.

4. Sentimental Items and Keepsakes 

Boxes of old photos, childhood memorabilia, or family heirlooms shouldn’t take up space in your closet. These should be stored in labeled bins in an attic, basement, or a designated storage area or even displayed in your home.

Exception: If you have no alternative storage, use stackable bins and tuck them in the least accessible part of your closet.

5. Holiday Décor 

Christmas ornaments, Halloween costumes, and other seasonal decorations don’t belong in a closet meant for daily use. Store them in clearly labeled bins in a storage closet, basement, or attic.

Exception: If you live in a small apartment, opt for decorative storage boxes that can double as home decor.

6. Workout Equipment 

Dumbbells, yoga mats, and resistance bands can make your closet feel cluttered. Designate a small workout area in another part of your home.

Exception: If space is tight, use wall hooks or a storage basket to keep workout items organized within your closet.

7. Office Supplies and Paperwork 

Your closet isn’t the place for files, notebooks, or extra office supplies. These should be in a desk or designated home office area.

Exception: If your closet is doubling as a home office due to space constraints, use labeled storage bins or filing boxes to keep things tidy.

8. Toys and Kid Clutter 

A primary closet is not the place for stuffed animals, games, or random kid-related items. Keep these in a playroom or designated toy storage area.

Exception: If storage space is limited, try using bins that can be stored on a high shelf in the kids' closet.

9. Pantry Items and Kitchen Supplies

Food, extra paper towels, and kitchen appliances should stay in the kitchen or pantry. A primary closet should not double as a pantry.

Exception: If your home lacks storage, use clear containers to keep items organized and prevent food smells from seeping into your clothing.

Maximizing a Small Closet When Storage Is Limited

If your home lacks storage space, making your closet multifunctional may be unavoidable. Here are a few tips to keep things tidy:

•Use Vertical Space: Install shelves or hanging organizers to maximize every inch.

•Utilize the Back of the Door: Over-the-door organizers are great for shoes, accessories, or small miscellaneous items.

•Invest in Storage Bins: Clear, labeled bins help keep non-clothing items neat and accessible.

•Rotate Seasonal Items: Keep off-season items in vacuum-sealed bags or under-bed storage.

•Declutter Regularly: A small space requires frequent editing to avoid overcrowding.

Your primary closet should be a place of ease, not stress. By removing unnecessary items and using smart storage solutions, you can create a well-organized space—even in a small home!

Nathalie XOXO