There are many ways we use our closets.
Some of us just use them for clothing storage, some people use them to store tools, others use them to keep craft items organized and out of site in, and others may use them to keep holiday gifts, decorations or seasonal items stored.
But one thing all of us have in common is a need to have a place where we can keep things together.
Let's face it.
A closet offers a place to keep items on hand without having them take up space on a shelf or desk.
But what can be done to make the closet space we have as useful as possible? Since most closets get used for a variety of purposes, it is vital to make the best of the space one has.
Here are a few tips for getting the most from your closets:

• If your closet still has just one rod in it, add another one; then you can sort out clothes based on usage, season or style.
  The upper rod should be about 82" from the floor.
  The lower rod should be about 42" above the floor.
  For exact spacing, measure your longest items, including the hanger, and add 4".
  For a child's closet, the bottom rod should be placed low.
  The upper rod, which will probably be out of the child's reach, can be used to store out-of-season clothes.
  
• Mount a kitchen rack designed for measuring utensils or pans to your closet door and then hang belts scarves, purses or perhaps jewelry on the hooks.
  Another alternative is to use over-the door racks that don't require any special tools or hardware, but work great for hanging these same items.
  
• Be sure to store heavy items or little used items on the floor.
  You might want to use the storage cubes or space bags to make it easier.
  
• Use pantry pullout shelves and under the cupboard units to give you a place to store items such as t-shirts that can be stored flat.
  
• Weed out clothing that you did not wear this season and give it to Goodwill or a related organization.
  Chances are, if you have not put it on in the past 6 months, you won't wear again.
  
• Have adjustable shelves installed so that you can set the shelving at height that best suit your needs.
  
• If you have a great deal of sports gear like skis, balls, rackets, and skates,use sports racks to store the items as these will make better use of the space.
  
• Consider other alternatives for storage.
  You might want to invest in the boxes on wheels or under the bed storage options for bulkier or little used items.
  
• Store off-season clothes in under-bed storage boxes; if you don't do a great deal of travel, use the suitcase to store the off season items in.
  Regardless of which option is used, be sure to use moth balls or cedar chips to protect the clothes.