• Don't pack too much into the closet, if possible; for instance, no vacuum cleaners or recycling.
• Store only what's used on a daily or weekly basis. "In a climate like Canada's, you might need three or four different coats in one week," says Barb. Store all off-season clothing elsewhere, if possible.
• Determine the height of the rod(s), by noting the length of your coats and the height of those who use the closet. Most coats are half- or three-quarter-length; if so, hang double rods, or use the space below the coats for baskets and shoe shelves. Generally, put the rod as high as possible to free up the lower areas for baskets and shoe shelves. "It takes two hands to reach for a basket on a high shelf, but only one to grab a coat from a high rod," says Barb.
• Use pullout baskets to double storage space. "Drawerlike baskets waste no space and allow easy access to the full depth of the closet," says Barb.
• Exploit the backs of doors with hooks and other accessories. They're good spots to hang kids' coats.
• Put any space in the entryway outside the closet to good use, with boot racks, baskets, an attractive container for mail, or any other organizing systems suited to your specific needs.
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