Closet Organization Mistakes People Make, From an Interior Designer

I’m an interior designer in NYC, and I see people make costly mistakes when setting up closets.
These include not having proper lighting and failing to maximize storage with adjustable systems.
I also hate seeing people waste vertical space and use cheap shelf and rod materials.

Designing a closet might seem straightforward, but there are common pitfalls that can turn a functional space into an expensive regret.

As an interior designer in New York City, I’ve seen how thoughtful planning can make a closet more efficient, beautiful, and enjoyable to use.

Here are the five biggest mistakes I see people make when organizing and designing a closet — and how to avoid them.

Failing to install proper lighting

Closet with shelves and underlighting — A well-lit closet can make choosing outfits way more fun.

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Good lighting is crucial in a closet, yet it’s often overlooked.

A dark closet makes it difficult to see your clothes, leading to frustration and underutilization of the space. Proper lighting, such as LED strips or recessed bulbs, can highlight your wardrobe and give the closet a luxurious feel.

When sourcing lighting for a closet, it’s best to avoid harsh fluorescent lights, which are notorious for casting unflattering shadows.

Using cheap shelving and rod materials

Stack of knitwear on wooden shelf — Wood shelves can be more sturdy than some other options.

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Shelves and rods made from cheaper materials can sag or break over time as you pile heavy clothes and shoes onto them. Then, you’ll have to spend more money to repair or replace them.

Instead, invest in durable materials, such as wood and metal, from the start. Not only do they last longer, but also they can give your closet a polished, custom look.

Not maximizing vertical space

Woman in closet with shelves up to ceiling of clothes going through clothes on hangers — Don’t only focus on what’s at eye level.

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One of the most common mistakes people make in their closets is only focusing on eye-level storage solutions and not utilizing vertical space.

Tall cabinets, double-hang rods, and ceiling-height shelves can help you make the most of every inch of your closet.

Use the upper sections to store seasonal items or accessories that aren’t needed daily, and keep a foldable step ladder nearby so you can reach higher shelves.

Overlooking adjustable storage systems

Wood shelves and hanging racks in closet — A flexible storage system can adapt to your needs as your wardrobe changes.

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Fixed systems are limiting and may not serve you well as your clothing collection evolves and wardrobe changes. Instead, investing in adjustable solutions ensures your closet remains functional for years to come.

I suggest opting for shelves, rods, and organizers that can be easily removed or shifted to different heights, allowing you to customize your closet layout over time.

Not planning out drawer storage

Drawer with purses and belts inside — Drawers can be used to organize smaller accessories, like purses.

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Closets are not just about hanging space — drawers, dividers, and trays are essential for storing smaller items like jewelry, belts, and shoes.

Otherwise, it can be easy for accessories to get lost or add clutter to your space.

Consider incorporating specialized storage solutions into your closet, like pull-out trays for watches or dividers for socks and scarves, to keep your wardrobe essentials tidy and accessible.

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