Avoid These Closet Mistakes: 11 Things You Should Remove Immediately

Discover the 11 things you should remove right away – and create a calm, organized closet you’ll actually enjoy opening.

Overstuffed Closet? Time for a Clean-Out

It’s tempting to stash all sorts of things in the closet, but that quickly leads to chaos.

Here are 11 items that don’t belong in your wardrobe – and smarter spots to store them instead.

Shoes – Avoid Mess and Odor

Shoes can easily create clutter and bring unpleasant smells into your closet.
Better solution: Keep everyday shoes by the front door and only store special-occasion or rarely worn pairs in your closet.

Pet Items – Keep Them Away from Clothing

Pet bowls, toys, and litter boxes shed hair and can carry odors.
Better solution: Store pet supplies in a designated area outside the bedroom.

Dirty Laundry – A Smelly Trap

Workout clothes and other dirty laundry can quickly stink up a closed space.
Better solution: Place your hamper in a well-ventilated area like the laundry room.

Extra Bedding – Takes Up Too Much Space

Duvets and sheets are bulky and don’t belong in your main closet.
Better solution: Store them in a linen closet and stick to just a few sets per person.

Handbags – Move Them Near the Door

Too many bags in the closet can cause clutter and confusion.
Better solution: Hang them on hooks or a rack near the front door for easy grab-and-go access.

Sentimental Items – Not for Everyday Storage

Photo albums, trophies, and keepsakes don’t belong with your clothes.
Better solution: Keep them safely stored in the attic or basement for occasional visits down memory lane.

Bathroom Items – Harmful to Clothing

Toiletries and cleaning products can spill and damage fabrics.
Better solution: Leave them in the bathroom or store them in a separate cabinet.

Seasonal Decorations – Unnecessary Clutter

Holiday decor takes up valuable space and is only used once a year.
Better solution: Store it in the attic or basement until it's needed.

Outerwear – Too Bulky for the Closet

Heavy coats and jackets take up space and are mainly used outdoors.
Better solution: Hang them in the entryway for quick access.

Too Many Hangers – Creates Visual Noise

Excess hangers take up room and create disorganization.
Better solution: Donate old or unused hangers and keep only what you regularly use.

Workout Equipment – Doesn’t Belong with Clothes

Yoga mats, kettlebells, and similar gear can smell and clutter the space.
Better solution: Designate a workout corner in the garage or another room.

Make Your Closet Functional

Regularly review your closet and remove anything that doesn’t belong.

Stick to clothes and accessories you actually wear – it’ll make your space feel calmer and more intentional.