Creating a nursery is about more than picking out cute décor—it’s about building a functional, calming space where both baby and parents can thrive. One of the most overlooked opportunities in nursery planning is closet design. With a baby comes a surprising amount of stuff, and without the right storage solutions, even a spacious nursery can start to feel cramped fast.
From closet organizer systems to clever small closet organization hacks, here’s how to turn any baby closet—no matter how tiny—into a powerhouse of home organization. (Source: Happiest Baby, Level Up Your Nursery Closet With These Organization Ideas, Written by Jenny Studenroth Gerson, https://www.happiestbaby.com/blogs/nursery-design/nursery-closet-organization-ideas ).
Make a Plan for a Nursery Closet
Before buying baskets or hangers, the article recommends taking time to plan how the nursery closet will function and what your baby truly needs.
The Closet Company shares, “Before you buy a single bin or hanger, map the space. The best nursery closet design starts with intention. Planning allows you to balance aesthetics with utility and ensures every inch of the closet serves a purpose—especially in small closet organization, where every square foot counts.”
Invest in Nursery Closet Organization Basics
Start simple with shelves, rods, and baskets that offer a foundational structure.
The Closet Company suggests, “Start with adaptable closet organizer systems. Basics don’t have to be boring—they should grow with your child. Investing in adjustable shelving, custom hanging space, and modular storage solutions lets your nursery closet evolve from onesies to school uniforms without needing a total overhaul.”
Use the Nursery Closet Doors A Lot (Or Not at All)
This section explores whether to use closet doors frequently—or ditch them altogether.
The Closet Company notes, “Sliding, bi-fold, or no doors at all—your choice should reflect how often you’ll access the space. In tighter rooms, open closet concepts can be more functional and inviting. If you’re keeping doors, use the back of them as bonus space for closet accessories—hooks, slim storage racks, or labeled pouches can multiply your storage without taking up shelf space.”
Vertical Organization in a Nursery Closet
Going vertical means using all that overhead space to your advantage.
The Closet Company highlights, “Think floor to ceiling. Vertical storage is the cornerstone of smart closet design. Add stacked shelves, double rods, or even overhead cubbies for infrequently used items. Vertical expansion is especially important in small closet organization, where the footprint is minimal, but the storage demand is high.”
Nursery Closet Bins and Things
Matching bins and baskets can reduce visual clutter and keep little items in check.
The Closet Company comments, “Bins bring visual calm and practical order, but they should be more than pretty. Choose bins that slide, stack, and breathe. Transparent or labeled options enhance accessibility. Custom designed closet setups can include built-in cubbies perfectly sized for bins, reducing clutter while streamlining daily routines.”
Nursery Closet Changing Space
Including a changing station in the closet can maximize your square footage.
The Closet Company suggests, “A changing station in the closet is a powerful space-saver, especially in urban homes. With the right closet organizer systems, a pull-out surface or built-in changing shelf can be seamlessly integrated without sacrificing clothing storage. It’s all about layering function—your closet should work harder, not just look nicer.”
Rainbow Nursery Closet Organization
Color-coding clothes isn’t just cute—it’s practical too.
The Closet Company shares, “Color coding is not just visually delightful—it’s incredibly functional. It makes it easier to spot what you need at a glance and helps keep things looking orderly even when time is tight. When built into a custom designed closet with open shelving and thoughtful layout, it’s both artful and efficient.”
Light & Bright Nursery Closet Organization
Lighting and color can transform a small closet into a cheerful, spacious-feeling nook.
The Closet Company notes, “Lighting transforms a closet from utility to inspiration. Whether it’s soft LEDs under each shelf or a central overhead light, illumination supports both mood and function. Pairing proper lighting with light-toned finishes in your closet design opens up even the smallest space and makes organization more inviting.”
Acrylic & Mesh Nursery Closet Drawer Dividers
Tiny items need specific places to live, and dividers do just that.
The Closet Company mentions, “Drawer dividers are the unsung heroes of home organization. Acrylic options let you see everything, while mesh provides breathability. In a custom closet design, built-in compartments can be tailored for baby-specific items—keeping pacifiers, mittens, and booties easy to find and harder to lose.”
Nursery Closet Labels
Labels on bins and drawers are simple but game-changing.
The Closet Company highlights, “Labels eliminate guesswork—an essential when you’ve got your hands full with a newborn. From printed tags to chalkboard markers, labeling supports consistency. A thoughtful closet organizer system includes logical zones, and labels make those zones work effortlessly, especially when multiple caregivers are involved.”
Custom Nursery Closets Just Make Sense
Whether you’re organizing a spacious nursery or working with a compact space, a well-designed closet can dramatically improve how you function day to day. These expert tips from The Closet Company prove that with the right approach, even the smallest space can be turned into a streamlined, functional, and beautiful storage area.
From closet accessories and vertical organization to thoughtful lighting and built-in changing stations, there’s no one-size-fits-all solution—which is why custom designed closets are the gold standard in home organization. Your baby deserves a space that works as hard as you do.