Maximising Closet Space: Wardrobe Solutions For Men In Shared Bedrooms
If you are a stylish guy who lives with a roommate, you will undoubtedly encounter a number of challenges, especially over closet space! A growing wardrobe can quickly become chaotic without proper organisation, making it difficult to find outfits and keep your designer pieces in good condition. My latest article will explore how to maximise your closet space using clever solutions and efficient storage techniques.
Declutter Before Organising
Assess Your Wardrobe
Begin the process by evaluating your clothing pieces. Separate your items into different categories –
- Essentials
- Seasonal wear
- Pieces you rarely wear
If you notice something you haven’t worn in over a year, then it is time to consider selling (or even donating) it. Reducing the number of unnecessary items will create far more space for your essentials (just remember to be honest with yourself about what you truly need and use).
Use the One-Year Rule
If you struggle to let go of clothing (I am guilty of this myself!), apply the one-year rule. When an item hasn’t been worn during the past year, then it is time to part ways. This effective approach will ensure that only your stylish and functional pieces stay in your wardrobe. When you keep your closet well-maintained and focused on what you wear on a regular basis, it will be space-efficient and free of clutter.
Smart Storage Solutions For Shared Spaces
Double Your Hanging Space
One of the easiest ways to increase your storage is to use a second hanging rod. Simply install an adjustable rod below the existing fixture, which will create a large amount of additional space for shirts, trousers, and jackets. Rather than having to invest in huge modifications, this simple set-up will instantly double your hanging space (bonus tip: group similar clothing types together for easy organisation).
Use Slim Hangers For More Room
Chuck out those bulky plastic or wooden hangers (which take up unnecessary space) in favour of slim, velvet-covered alternatives. They save room in your wardrobe and stop your clothing from slipping off, keeping everything looking neat and well-organised. Additionally, aim to colour-coordinate your hangers to deliver a sleek and cohesive appearance.
Make Use Of Vertical Space
The majority of closet designs will invariably have unused vertical space – install hanging shelves or stackable storage bins to take full advantage of this area. Consider shoe racks, storage boxes and hanging organisers to create maximum space without encroaching on your roommate’s section! Furthermore, fix hooks onto the inside of the closet doors to hang accessories such as hats, belts or bags.
Space-Saving Folding Techniques
Master The File Fold Method
When you fold your clothes correctly, you prevent wasted space. Instead of simply stacking shirts and trousers, implement the file-fold method. For instance, fold your dress shirts into compact triangles and vertically store them in drawers or bins. This effective technique will ensure easy visibility of your items, which in turn prevents unnecessary turmoil inside your space-restricted wardrobe!
Roll Instead Of Stack
Roll your t-shirts, jeans, and general casual wear to prevent wrinkles (and save vital space!). This process is ideal for drawers and storage bins, allowing you to fit more into limited areas. Additionally, rolling will make it far easier to grab your clothes without causing unwanted disruption within the rest of your wardrobe.
Optimising Closet Compartments
Drawer Dividers For Small Items
Your smaller items (including socks, underwear and accessories) can quickly become a disorganised mess in a shared space. Combat this issue by using drawer dividers to keep everything neatly in place. This simple addition will make it far easier to find smaller essentials without rummaging (and creating more mess) through the clutter! When your smaller essentials are well-organised, it will save you valuable time when you must get dressed in a hurry.
Over-the-Door Organisers
Splash out on an over-the-door organiser, which is perfect for storing shoes, belts, and even grooming products. They will free floor and shelf space and ensure that your regularly used items are always within reach (bonus tip: purchase one with clear pockets, making it even easier to find what you need!).
Seasonal Rotation For Efficiency
Store Off-Season Clothing Elsewhere
A practical method of saving space is rotating your wardrobe by season (instead of trying to fit every item of clothing you own into your shared wardrobe). Store your off-season clothing in storage bins (pushed under the bed), vacuum-sealed bags, or even an ad-hoc old suitcase or luggage. This system will allow you to focus entirely on the current essentials. Remember to wash and store your items correctly (keeping them fresh) when you transition between different seasons.
Label And Categorise
When storing seasonal clothing, it is essential that you label the boxes, bins, and bags. Categorise your items by type and season so you can swiftly find your winter coat or summer shorts when the temperatures change. With a well-labelled storage system in place, you will be able to find what you are looking for with minimal hassle.
Coordinating With Your Roommate
Define Boundaries
Formally agreeing on the closest divisions can be a game-changer, avoiding any overlap and confusion. Having clear boundaries in place can prevent disagreements down the line—whether it is a 50/50 split or even designated sections for each person, keeping personal areas separate will ensure the peace is upheld in cramped shared spaces.
Respect Shared Spaces
Both roommates will benefit from maintaining an organised closet space. Make sure that you avoid any of your clothing and clutter spilling over into your roommate’s section. Additionally, practising tidying up regularly and sticking to your agreed-upon storage areas will create a happy living environment for everything (and prevent any unwanted conflicts in the future).
Additional Space-Saving Tips
Invest In A Clothing Rack
If your shared closet is too small, consider investing in a free-standing clothing rack. This will provide extra hanging space while also ensuring your beloved go-to pieces are easily accessible. Opt for a minimalist design that will complement the overall bedroom decor.
Use Storage Ottomans Or Benches
Multifunctional furniture (such as storage ottomans or benches) can be invaluable additions to store off-season clothing, shoes, and accessories and provide additional seating in the bedroom. These discreet solutions are excellent options for those who want to keep items out of sight but easily accessible on a whim.
Stackable Shoe Storage
Footwear is always the main culprit of taking up too much closet space (especially for fashionistas with far too many shoes and sneakers!). Purchase stackable or tiered shoe racks, which will make the most of that (otherwise unused) vertical space, keeping your shoes organised and easily accessible. Clear shoe bin styles are ideal, as they keep your designer (and expensive) pairs safe from dust and allow you to show them off!
Finding The Right Shared Living Arrangement
Platforms like SpareRoom.com can make it far easier to find compatible roommates. If you want to rent in Atlanta, NYC or Austin, these platforms can help you find the ideal living situation. If you live in other areas of the world, do not worry – there are a number of alternatives available to help with your living space concerns! Choosing a room that shares your organisational habits will provide a much smoother living experience for both parties. When you are both on the same page for storage and cleanliness, it will ultimately help to maintain an orderly and happy home for everyone.
Conclusion
Maximising closet space in a shared bedroom will undoubtedly require strategic organisation and clever storage solutions. Build a functional and clutter-free closet by removing unused items and adopting a variety of the tips and techniques listed above. Make sure to set boundaries with your roommate, which will guarantee that your private space is well-maintained and respected.
With the correct approach in place, even a tiny closet can fully accommodate multiple wardrobes (without feeling too cramped). When your closet is fully organised, it allows for style and practicality in equal measure, whether it is via space-saving hangers, seasonal rotations, or even multifunctional furniture.
By following the tricks in my latest guide, you and your roommate can enjoy a shared wardrobe space that is entirely organised, easy to access, and will complement the bedroom.
What are your thoughts on my latest article? Please let me know in the comments section below.
