As winter approaches, many people start updating their wardrobes. Summer pieces give way to heavier garments designed to keep warmth in and rain out. Space becomes precious, but coats can still be stored neatly without cramping the room. The answer lies in smart folding and packing techniques inspired by the KonMari method, popularized by Japanese organizer Marie Kondo.
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Coats and outerwear present the greatest challenge. Usually, they are folded in half and pushed into the closet in a hurry. To protect them from creases, a more deliberate approach is needed, especially for bulky jackets and long shirts. The technique focuses on reducing folds while maximizing space.
Here is a practical method. Start with the jacket and fold each sleeve from the outside toward the center. Repeat on the opposite side, then fold the garment in half lengthwise and tuck the shoulder area inside. Finally, fold the jacket compactly for convenient storage.
Coats that stay in the closet can be arranged on a shelf or even on a bed. Fold the bottom up in half with the back facing forward. Then lift the top portion toward you so it overlaps the bottom edge. Store it in a box with an airtight lid to keep it fresh.
If hanging is preferred, lay the coat flat on a bed, button it, and fold the sleeves inward. Slip the bottom portion over a hanging rod, attach the hanger to the collar, and slide the coat into the closet.
Ways to hang clothes in the closet
Long garments should be kept from wrinkling. A simple, practical trick involves a cardboard tube from kitchen towels. Cut it lengthwise and place it on the rod to act as a spacer. This prevents clothes from rubbing and creates extra space. The same hanger can hold trousers or skirts to minimize creases. A dress can be hung by folding it over the rod and letting gravity do the rest.
Another option is to insert a foam-ended crutch into the pant leg and then place the end on the rod of another hanger. This keeps garments aligned and wrinkle-free. For additional protection, store clothes in zippered closet bags and use small protective bags to deter moths.
Whispers of organization extend to the home, including seasonal restyling and careful storage choices. The idea is to make room without sacrificing accessibility, keeping each item easy to reach when needed.
When sales lure shoppers, it’s common to encounter irresistible pieces. Markets and fairs often bring back items that cycle into fashion over time. To maintain a tidy closet, consider simple, clever tricks to maximize space. For instance, a small vertical system can be built with a sturdy hanger and a perforated metal tab—allowing multiple garments to hang on the same rod without crowding. Jeans and skirts can share space with shirts, t-shirts, or jackets, depending on rotation and priority.
Overall, the goal is to balance practicality with accessibility. With a few easy modifications, a compact space becomes functional and organized, making the transition to winter gear smooth and neat.