Effectively utilize the top of your wardrobe for storing items you don't need frequent access to, such as seasonal clothing, luggage, or spare bedding.
Making the most of vertical space is key to maximizing storage in any wardrobe. The top section, often equipped with a full width top shelf, provides valuable real estate for storing less frequently used items. This approach helps declutter the main hanging or drawer areas, keeping your everyday essentials more accessible.
Maximizing Storage with the Top Shelf
A top shelf is specifically designed to help you utilize the entire width of your closet or wardrobe. According to the reference, it helps "make the most of your closet" by providing storage for items not needed regularly.
What to Store on the Top Shelf
The top of the wardrobe, especially with a sturdy shelf, is ideal for items that are bulky, seasonal, or only needed occasionally.
- Suitcases and Travel Gear: Large items like luggage fit perfectly on a top shelf, keeping them out of the way until your next trip.
- Additional Bed Linen: Store spare sheets, duvet covers, or blankets that aren't currently in use.
- Hats and Accessories: Seasonal hats, scarves, or other accessories can be stored here, perhaps in boxes or bins.
- Seasonal Clothing: Off-season clothing that takes up valuable space during certain times of the year.
- Spare Pillows or Comforters: Bulky bedding items that aren't needed daily.
Storing these items on the top shelf helps "make use of the entire space" and keeps your lower, more accessible areas free for items you use daily or weekly.
Practical Tips for Using the Top Space
Here are some ways to organize and access items stored high up:
- Use Storage Bins or Boxes: Place items like hats, seasonal clothing, or small linens in labelled bins. This keeps items organized and makes them easier to retrieve without everything falling out.
- Fold Bulky Items Neatly: Fold blankets, comforters, or large sweaters compactly to fit more on the shelf.
- Group Similar Items: Store all bed linen together, all travel bags together, etc.
- Consider Accessibility: Since it's high up, store items that aren't heavy or awkward to lift. Use a sturdy step stool for safe access.
Example Storage Plan
| Item Type | Recommended Placement | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Suitcases | Top Shelf (Full Width) | Ideal for infrequent use |
| Additional Bed Linen | Top Shelf (Bins/Bags) | Keep sets together; label bins |
| Hats & Accessories | Top Shelf (Boxes) | Protect delicate items, group by season |
| Seasonal Clothing | Top Shelf (Bins/Bags) | Vacuum-seal for maximum space saving |
| Spare Pillows | Top Shelf | Store in protective bags |
Using the top of your wardrobe, particularly a dedicated top shelf, is an efficient way to utilize often underused space for storing items you don't need daily access to.
