Don't Waste That Closet Space

Most closets have a couple of feet over the shelf that hold stacks of clothes falling over and off making a mess. In the past I have put in closet systems that made it easier to use the higher space. I just moved into a house with 9 foot ceilings which gives over three feet of empty space. How could I actually use that area for storage? I have lots of off season clothes that I need to store. I don't want to put in closet systems again, they are just too expensive. I looked at lots of shelves and cabinets but most were too wide. While looking for a shelf to turn into a dining room bench (I had done that before with one from IKEA) I found the solution.

I came across the ClosetMaid stack able storage units that were just the right depth to sit on the shelf. Most I had looked at were too deep and would, in my opinion, be too unstable up there. I ordered a 3x3 (shown) and a 2x3 unit. Assemble per instructions (I left off the backing). I was able to lift the small one by myself but had to get help to put the larger one up there. Once in place L brackets secured to the studs keep them from falling over.

You could just put the items in the cubes but It is better to contain them using the drawers designed for the units. I bought some at IKEA but they were too large. I found a set of 8 on Amazon that fit and are less expensive than the name brand. I also found some, not quite as sturdy, at The Dollar Tree (beige one). I sorted the clothes into season, items (tops, bottoms) and size and used a Brother label maker to identify the contents. Currently used items are stored on the bottom row of shelves. A shoe storage unit keeps them off the floor and out of the way.

For less than $100 the closet space is organized and put to good use.

I could add more units but I don't want to block the natural light and have it feel closed in. The cube drawers I got from IKEA fit up there and will hold sets of sheets and accessories. I hung backpacks and purses from hangers to keep them accessible and from being buried and forgotten.

The white cabinet? That was purchased at a second hand store and is an old Victrola cabinet that was converted to a lingerie chest.

I will be putting something similar in the guest room closets to make use of the space above those shelves.