No matter how big they are, closets never seem to have enough storage space. Whether your closet is overflowing with clothes you never wear or packed with miscellaneous items, a quick refresh can help streamline your storage and make room for the things you actually wear.

Start your closet clean-out by clearing out these 12 items, including out-of-season attire and space-consuming accessories. Once they're out of the closet, you can either store them elsewhere (perhaps in the basement or an entryway closet) or remove them from your house altogether. Take just a few minutes to relocate or toss these items, and your closet will feel more spacious and organized. (Trust us, you're not going to miss them.)

Kimberly Gavin

1. Excess Hangers

Clunky hangers can occupy valuable closet space, so don't keep more than you need. Designate a hanger for all items you like to hang, then discard the rest. You might also consider replacing bulky plastic hangers with slimline hangers for a more space-saving design. If you buy something new, make it a rule to get rid of one item before hanging the new one.

2. Out-of-Season Items

Warm, waterproof boots are essential when winter weather hits, but in July, your bulky boots are taking up precious storage space. The same applies to your sundresses and strappy sandals in December. Stash out-of-season items in the attic, basement, or spare room, or under your bed—anywhere but in the closet—and switch out items as the weather changes.

3. Anything That's Not Your Style

Whether you wear all black, prefer skirts to pants, or have a thing for sparkles, you probably know your own style by now. Rid your closet of items that don't match your personal brand. As a bonus, maintaining a distinct style can make it easier to get ready in the morning, since everything you own already goes together.

Jay Wilde

4. Bulky Coats

Coat closets exist for a reason. House bulky parkas, umbrellas, and outdoor accessories like hats and scarves in your entryway or in an extra closet outside the bedroom. This will not only free up space in your clothes closet but stop dirt, salt, water, and other debris from tracking into your sleep space.

5. Items You Haven't Worn in a Year

Whether it was a gift or a clearance-rack steal we couldn't pass up, we all have items we never wear. Purge any clothing item that's too big, too small, stained, or threadbare. As a general rule, if you haven't worn an item in a year, it's time to part with it.

6. Luggage

Instead of storing luggage in your closet, stash it under your bed, in the basement, or in the attic. Before you pack it away, however, take advantage of the empty space inside and use that suitcase to store out-of-season items or extra linens.

7. Outdoor Accessories

Clear hats, scarves, and mittens out of your closet and instead store them by the door. A small basket or the drawer of an entryway console table works well for storing outdoor accessories in a convenient spot. Then you can bundle up right before you head out the door.

8. Jewelry

Pretty jewelry can double as art if it's displayed correctly. Keep your necklaces on a tree and rings in a decorative dish, but keep them out of your closet. Closet space is typically tight, so you might knock valuables over when pulling out a dress or grabbing a bin from the top shelf. Storing jewelry on a vanity is a much safer (and more easily accessible) option for small accessories.

David Tsay

9. Your Wedding Dress

You might be keeping your wedding dress for the next generation or for sentimental reasons, but it's best to store it somewhere other than your closet. Most gowns require specialized storage and occupy significant space. Wrap the dress in a garment bag, then store it in a hall closet or under the bed, away from light.

10. Pet Accessories

Keep any animal toys or beds out of the closet. If you have a walk-in closet, keep your pets out, too. This helps protect your clothing from pet hair, odors, or potential damage. Dog hair and black pants do not mix, nor do a cat's claws and leather boots.

11. Food Gifts

Keeping food items or gifts, such as fancy chocolates, in your closet invites a host of pesky problems. Moths, mice, and other critters can be lured in by the scent of food and cause damage to your wardrobe. Always store food items in the kitchen, even if the package appears tightly sealed.

12. Extra Bedding

Since your closet is likely near your bed, it can be tempting to store extra bedding there. But since pillows, comforters, and sheets are bulky, they will take up a lot of space in your closet and crowd out the things that should be there. Move extra bedding to the linen closet. If you don't have a linen closet, consider storing extra bedding in lidded storage bins that fit under your bed.