A too-small closet is a common problem that many home dwellers face, especially in older homes where living space was once valued over storage and most lifestyles didn’t demand more than a few simple outfits. (Your great grandmother probably only had one Sunday-go-to-meeting dress.)

The good news is that there are easy and affordable ways to maximize closet space by incorporating a few simple solutions that are timesaving, budget-friendly and stylish.

The ideas below will help you organize a closet and take advantage of all the storage your small closet can offer you.

• First, clear out the clutter.

You knew I was going to say this first, didn’t you? Seriously though, most people wear only about 25-percent of the clothes that are in their closet. The easiest way to begin clearing out is to get rid of things that no longer fit. From there, move to pulling things that are no longer in style – or no longer your style. Our expert to Personal Organizing has a complete guide to help you organize and declutter your closet.

• Reconsider your hangers.

You can immediately make the most of hanging space by choosing a slimline or tiered hanger, which allows you to hang multiple items on one hanger. If you have extra space below shirts or other short hanging items, you could install a closet doubler or another hanging rod down below.

• Look up for extra space.

I’ve seen scarfs draped over dowels attached to the ceiling and purses hanging from pretty hooks installed high above.

Also, bags or bins can be attached to the ceiling with hooks or screws and can be used to hold all types of clothing. If you can’t reach items up high, store a folding stool close by.

• Store stuff, not air.

Space bags are affordable and easy to use and can greatly reduce the volume of bulky items like blankets and winter coats. Just put articles to store in the bag and suction out the air with your vacuum cleaner. These bags can save you precious inches and keep your items safe from dust, molds and humidity until you need them again.

• Consider installing a sliding closet door.

If your closet door opens up into your closet, the area reserved for the door swing could be taking up valuable space. Transforming your closet door into a sliding door installed on the outside of your closet (or a pocket door that tucks away inside the wall) can help free up valuable, usable space inside your closet. Another, possibly easier, alternative is to remove the door and install a curtain rod and curtain to cover your clutter. This is also a great idea for closets located in small rooms. Depending upon your needs, easy DIY instructions can be found on the web.

• Think outside of the closet.

Adding a separate wardrobe or closet organizer on a spare wall is a great way to add additional storage. Most of us don’t need all of our clothes right at hand all at once, so consider storing out-of-season items underneath the bed or even in the attic, or treat clothing as art. Pretty hats, scarves, jewelry or even shoes can be displayed on shelving or hooks outside of the closet.

Also, beside your everyday entryway is usually an even better spot for your shoes than your closet. Consider installing a shoe storage cabinet, or a simple cubed cubby could work also. The entryway could be a great spot to hang those bulky coats and jackets, too!