Key takeaways
- Fold jeans and athletic pants; knit bottoms hold their shape better folded than hung.
- Hang dress pants folded lengthwise over the hanger bar, never by a belt loop.
- Use a low rod for pants and the higher rod for tops to save space.
- Fold shorts into drawers and roll leggings from ankle to waistband.
When it comes to closet organizing, tops tend to get a lot of attention. After all, there are endless rules for hanging, folding, and storing everything from blouses to sweaters, tank tops to tees. While stowing shirts appropriately is undoubtedly important, it’s a mistake to neglect bottoms when arranging your attire. From jeans to dress pants, here are some of the top tips for protecting your favorite bottoms:
Fold Jeans and Athletic Bottoms
If your current closet organizing scheme involves hanging all your pants, the odds are you’re not using your space to its best advantage. Rather than filling your clothing rod with jeans and sweats, opt to stow these casual bottoms in drawers and on shelves. As a bonus, knit pants tend to hold their shape better when folded as opposed to hung up. For best results, fold athletic pants in half lengthwise before folding them into thirds. You can then stack similar items together.
Hang Dress Pants
While it’s fine to stack your jeans and yoga pants, dress pants should always be hung in the closet. Doing this prevents them from winding up with creases or wrinkles that will necessitate ironing. For best results, avoid hanging wool, silk, or linen pants by a belt loop, as this can cause them to stretch. Instead, fold these delicate pants in half lengthwise and then drape them over the bar of a hanger. Save space by stowing pants on a low bar while using the higher one for tops.
Stow Shorts in Drawers
Summer is shorts season, so it’s no surprise that many of us are looking for ways to store our cut-offs and Bermudas more efficiently. The good news is you don’t have to hang up your shorts. Simply fold them in half vertically and stack them in a drawer or on a shelf. When the weather cools down again, don’t hesitate to move shorts and sundresses to another closet or a plastic bin under the bed. Doing this lets you make room for sweaters and other bulky winter wear.
Roll Up Leggings
Many of us live in our leggings these days, donning multiple pairs over the course of a week. If you’re looking for a better way to store these supremely comfy bottoms, then start rolling. Simply fold a pair of leggings in half lengthwise and then roll them from ankle to waistband. You can stow the rolls in a dresser drawer or a basket. Not only does this technique help prevent stretching, but it also allows you to find the perfect pair at a glance, saving you time on the way to the gym.
Master the Art of Closet Organizing With Help From Closet World
When you choose us for your closet organizing, you’re guaranteed a singular experience. Our designers take time to work closely with clients, ensuring all their needs and goals are being met. Along with measuring your space, we’ll itemize your belongings so that there’s a place for all your clothes and accessories. Ready to get started? Call today or contact us online to schedule your consultation. We look forward to helping you organize your home.
Frequently asked questions
Is it better to hang or fold jeans?
Folding usually wins. Jeans, sweats and other casual bottoms take up valuable rod space when hung, and knit pants hold their shape better folded. Stack similar pairs together on shelves or in drawers so you can see them at a glance.
How should I hang dress pants?
Dress pants should be hung to prevent creases and wrinkles. Avoid hanging wool, silk or linen pants by a belt loop, which can stretch them. Fold them in half lengthwise and drape them over the bar of a hanger.
What is the best way to store leggings?
Roll them. Fold a pair of leggings in half lengthwise, then roll from ankle to waistband. Store the rolls in a drawer or basket. Rolling helps prevent stretching and lets you spot the pair you want at a glance.
CW Man’s two cents
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