At South Bay Custom Closets, my team takes pride in creating storage solutions for every member of the family, including children. Each of our kids’ closets is made specifically for the child who will be using it, and we take their age and interests into consideration when we create our unique designs. Parents often ask me how they can ensure the closet stays perfect for their child as they grow. I have some great ideas for using an adjustable closet in a way that will benefit your child from toddlerhood to the teen years and even beyond!
In this article, we’ll talk about customizing closets for the following age groups:
- Toddlers
- Preschoolers
- School-aged kids
- Teens
South Bay Custom Closets is your top resource for all things related to custom closets and other bespoke storage spaces. Please call us anytime to schedule a free in-home consultation. It comes with a free design and no obligation.
If you’re ready to learn more about how to create the perfect kids’ closet for your little one (or big one!), keep reading for the details you need.
Toddlers (Ages 1-3)
If you have a toddler, he or she isn’t quite ready to be independent in the closet. The toddler years are about learning the concept of putting clothes and other belongings away. During this time, it’s also important for parents to take the steps necessary to keep their children safe.
Safety
Safety is everything when you’ve got a toddler on the move. Littles ones often put everything in their mouths, so start with non-toxic materials to keep things safe and sound. Rounded edges will help prevent cuts, bumps, and bruises.. Make sure all shelving is sturdy and secured to the wall; we don’t want anything toppling over. Finally, don’t forget those childproof locks and latches to keep curious hands out of anything they shouldn’t be touching or playing with.
Accessibility
Accessibility can give your growing tot a bit of independence. Design the closet with lower shelves, bins, and hooks that your toddler can easily reach. This way, they can help out with tidying up and even pick out their own outfits (with a little guidance, of course). Open bins and baskets are good because your toddler can see exactly what’s inside. They also don’t require a lot of manual dexterity to use – making cleanup a lot more straightforward.
Organization
Organizing can be an adventure with the right tools. Think colorful bins, labeled baskets, and small hangers that are just the right size for tiny clothes. Bright colors and clear labels can make it easier for your little one to know where everything goes. Since your toddler isn't reading yet, pictures or icons on the labels can be really helpful. Small hangers keep their clothes neat and make it easier for them to learn how to hang things up.
Preschoolers (Ages 4-6)
Your preschooler is full of energy and imagination, and he or she is learning something new every day. They’re gaining a sense of self, so it’s important to start letting them express their feelings and preferences. Here’s how to create a space that’s not only practical but also fun and engaging for your little one. If you’re looking for more ways to help your young child's personality develop, check out this piece on WebMD.
Interactivity
Adding interactive elements to the closet can turn getting dressed and tidying up into a fun activity. Think about including a dress-up station with a mirror and hooks for costumes and accessories. A designated area for favorite toys can make the closet feel like part of their bedroom. They’ll be able to enjoy the space and have fun while also learning the importance of organization.
Adjustability
Kids grow fast, and their storage needs change just as quickly. My team recommends adjustable features, like moveable shelving and hanging rods. You can easily reconfigure the closet as your child grows – making sure it always fits their current wardrobe and storage needs. Adjustable elements also mean you can tweak the setup to match their ever-changing interests and activities.
Personalization
Personalizing the closet with your child’s favorite colors, themes, and decorations can make it a special space they love to spend time in. Let them pick out their favorite bins, themed decals, or fun drawer knobs. Adding their personal touch can make them feel more connected to their space and more excited about using it. If your child feels ownership over their closet, they’re more likely to actually want to use it, which will inspire them to keep it neater.
School-Age Kids (Ages 7-12)
As kids get older and head off to school, they need different types of storage. Older kids are also more independent and want to be able to manage their bedrooms and closets on their own. Here’s how to create a closet that can support these needs for school-aged kids.
Study and Play Areas
After the early elementary years, the homework routine really kicks in, as do extracurricular activities. Incorporating zones in the closet can make a big difference. Create a section with shelves or cubbies for school supplies, so everything from notebooks to art materials has a home. Hooks and bins can keep sports equipment organized and easy to grab on the go. Don’t forget a spot for hobbies—whether it’s a crafting corner or a space for musical instruments. Having a place for what makes your child smile will go a long way toward encouraging tidiness.
Additional Storage Space Requirements
As kids grow, so do their wardrobes. Address the increased storage needs by adding extra shelving, drawers, and hanging space. Adjustable shelves can be moved to accommodate larger items as needed. Adding a few more drawers can help store smaller items, like socks, accessories, and gadgets. Another option is to add drawer dividers, which will let your child better organize the drawers he or she already has. Don’t underestimate the power of additional hanging space for clothes that need to be kept wrinkle-free.
Promoting Self-Reliance
Organizing the closet in a way that encourages independence can help your child take charge of their belongings. Place frequently used items within easy reach, and use clear bins or labeled baskets to make it simple for them to find what they need. Busy kids might not want to fuss with hangers, so consider hooks for items, like hoodies, jackets, or accessories. The more they can manage on their own, the more confident and responsible they’ll become.
Teens (Ages 13+)
Teens have their own sense of style and a lot of independence, so their closet needs to keep up with their evolving tastes and busy lives. They should have a lot of input as to how their closets are arranged. Here are some ideas to suggest to them as you help them get and stay organized.
Personality and Visual Appeal
For teens, style and aesthetics are crucial. This is their space, and it should reflect their personality. See if they want to incorporate trendy design elements, like sleek hardware, bold colors, or even a statement wallpaper inside the closet. Opt for a more mature look that can grow with them – using neutral bases with pops of color or pattern they love. This is a great time to upgrade the pastels and themes of their younger years, but every teen is different, so see what yours wants in terms of color or pattern.
Enhancing Space Utilization
Teenagers often have a lot more clothes, shoes, accessories, as well as hobbies. Maximizing space is essential. Think about double rods for hanging clothes, stackable shelves for shoes, and pull-out bins for easy access to accessories. Using vertical space efficiently, like adding shelves up to the ceiling, can make a big difference. Under-the-bed options are also good for out-of-season items or for permanently storing bulkier items, like sweaters. If you can make space for their hobbies in the closet, that’s a great bonus.
Efficient Storage Systems
Functional storage solutions are a must. Jewelry organizers keep accessories untangled and easy to find. Tie racks or belt hangers can be used for more than just ties and belts—they’re great for scarves, bags, and other accessories, too. And with all the tech gadgets teens have these days, designated storage for charging stations, headphones, and other electronics helps keep everything in order and easy to find. Brainstorm with your teen to come up with the most important storage solutions in their closet, then prioritize from there.
Conclusion
Creating a custom kids’ closet for your child, no matter what their age, will start with a thoughtful blend of safety, accessibility, and style. By focusing on age-appropriate features, you can come up with a system that will suit your child from toddlerhood to adolescence. My team is happy to help. Get in touch with us to schedule a free consultation appointment, and see the difference a custom kids’ closet can make.