Stylist Shares 5 Genius Closet Organizing Hacks Using Items You Already Have at Home
From pool noodles for boots to ice cube trays for earrings, these tricks are oh-so-smart
If you’ve ever stood in front of your closet feeling overwhelmed by tangled necklaces, flopping boots, and misshapen bras, you’re not alone. But what if the best organizing solutions were already hiding in your home—and cost next to nothing?
Hollywood stylist Alison Freer, author of The Accessory Handbook, shares clever organizing hacks using simple household items that work better than expensive systems. From pool noodles to ice cube trays, these brilliant tricks will transform your wardrobe using things you probably already own.
Sort underthings with a ‘bra tree’
To mix and match fast, experts advise hanging almost everything—even undies. “It’s worth devoting a hanger to bras,” says Freer. “I pass each bra’s straps through a safety pin and attach the pins to a cardboard hanger, starting in the middle and working outward to balance the weight.” This protects cups and keeps lace from fraying.
Access your earrings with an ice cube tray
The best jewelry storage lets you see as many pieces as possible at a glance, emphasizes Freer, who uses a dresser drawer fitted with various trays chosen for their dimensions. Chances are you have three of her favorites around the house: ice cube trays for earrings, silverware trays for necklaces and shoe-box lids for bracelets. These simple organizers keep items untangled and make daily accessorizing faster and easier.
Keep boots beautiful with a pool noodle
Tall boots are usually an investment—in money and closet space! To keep yours from flopping over or creasing, try Freer’s favorite hack: “Using a serrated bread knife and a cutting board, I cut a foam pool noodle into four or six pieces, depending on the length. I stuff them into my boots to keep them upright while also absorbing sweat and odors over time, extending their lifespan and keeping them looking new.”
Dust-proof handbags with a pillowcase
“If I buy a bag that doesn’t come with a protective cover, I stash it in a pillowcase,” says Freer. “Just like a fancy dust bag, the fabric allows each piece to breathe while protecting it from dust and sunlight—the twin enemies of handbags.” Have several small clutches? Look for toddler-sized pillowcases at big-box stores for about $8 for two.
Corral belts with a bathroom staple
“No matter how you decide to store them, belts are rascally little things!” laughs Freer. “After years of organizing actors’ closets, I’ve found one of the best, least expensive ways to corral them: shower curtain rings from the dollar store. Look for the plastic ones that have a small slit to slip them on and off the shower rod, and loop them onto your closet rail, storing a single belt on each hook.” Voila—neat, tidy and always visible! If you have a large collection, slide the shower rings onto a hanger that has a sturdy crossbar.
The beauty of these organizing hacks is that they’re not just budget-friendly—they’re also incredibly effective at protecting your investment pieces while making your daily routine smoother and more enjoyable
This story first appeared in the March 2, 2026, issue of Woman’s World magazine.
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