If you’re planning to use a closet for extra storage space, you should learn about all the options you have when it comes to installing closet storage systems. There are literally thousands of different shelving units, bins, and boxes for you to pick from.

First, decide whether you’re going for form, function, or a combination of both. If you don’t care about coordinating the look of your storage space, you have a lot more options for types of storage. Plastic tubs, rolling bins, and canvas totes are just some of your choices.

Rubbermaid makes an amazing selection of plastic totes and bins that you can use in your closet storage. They range in size from small food storage containers, which are also great for hardware and craft supplies, to giant totes that are large enough for your biggest storage needs, like holiday decorations and patio furniture cushions.

Place the very largest bins on the floor, underneath wall mounted shelving, and fill the shelves themselves with an array of different sized bins.

One of the keys to good closet storage systems is to clearly label everything. When each tub, bin, and tote is clearly labeled, you’ll always know what’s inside.

You should try to keep all similar items in the same place, which makes it a lot easier to see at a glance where everything is. It’s easiest to use a label maker, and that way, you can just peel off the labels and change them if you ever need to in the future.

Another option is to label the storage bin with a permanent marker, or you can tape a piece of paper to the side or front of the bin that describes the contents.

Clear or translucent bins are the favorite of most professional organizers, because labeling no longer has to be so detailed with these. When you can see the contents, you’re even more organized, and you save yourself more time.

Rubbermaid also has a good selection of clear bins you can use as part of your closet storage systems as well. You can also find specialty storage items for your closet too, designed to hold things such as gift wrap, hobby supplies, and craft items.