Top 5 Tips for Winter Organization

Winter is approaching, bringing colder temperatures and, unfortunately, the challenge of cluttered closets and disorganized winter gear. However, there's no need to worry. You can breeze through this season of chaos with some straightforward organization tactics. By keeping everything in its place, you'll ensure your gear is both accessible and orderly, turning potential frustration into a chill season of calm.

Here are some winter organization tips to help you get started.

1. Keep your closets in season

A common mistake is using coat closets as a catch-all for everything. Spring jackets, fall sweatshirts, and bulky winter coats often end up crammed into one spot. This leads to frustration and disarray. As the seasons change, rotate the contents of your coat closet, storing out-of-season items in less frequented spaces.

2. Be compartmentalized

Recall last winter and how much time was spent searching for a lost glove or mitten. Many people collect gloves and scarves in one large bin, leading to missing pairs. To avoid this mystery of the lost glove, store gloves, mittens, and scarves as sets inside compartments, similar to how shoes are stored.

3. Get hooked

With winter weather comes more mud, snow, and slush inside. Create a system to keep items off the floor where they can stay dry and clean. Install hooks for backpacks and other items to maintain a neat and dry space.

4. Gear up

Winter sports like skiing, snowboarding, and hockey can be a highlight of the season. However, storing all that gear can become a nightmare if it's leaning against walls or piled in corners. Treat your winter gear like gardening tools—mount it to the wall. By lifting your gear off the floor and out of corners, you'll enjoy easy access and less frustration.

5. Make a wet zone

Avoid hanging a wet raincoat in your closet next to dry garments. Designate a specific area in your home, such as an entryway or mudroom, for wet items. Make this space practical by adding bins, hooks, and hangers for neat organization. This should be a functional area where it's convenient to transition from the cold outdoors to the warm indoors, keeping wet items contained. Not every home has a dedicated entry or mudroom, but creating an entryway system will significantly help in maintaining a dry and organized environment.

Every season brings its own set of challenges, and winter is no exception. By keeping these winter organization tips in mind, you can glide through the season knowing your home is prepared for whatever winter throws your way.