Introduction
As spring approaches, I’m feeling motivated to do some deep cleaning and get organized. My closets and drawers are overflowing, making it frustrating to find what I need. By taking the time to maximize my storage space, I’ll be able to tidy up and make the most of what I already have. Here’s what I plan to do to overhaul my closets and drawers this spring.
Evaluate What You Have
The first step is taking everything out of my closets and drawers so I can get a good look at what I actually have.
Make Piles
I’m going to sort items into piles:
- Keep – items I love, wear often, and still fit into
- Donate/Sell – pieces that are still in good condition but I don’t wear anymore
- Trash – anything with stains, tears, or defects that can’t be fixed
Be Ruthless
I need to be brutal and really look objectively at each item. If I’m holding onto things for sentimental reasons or “just in case” but realistically never wear them, then they should go.
Check for Expired Items
I’ll also look for any bath/beauty products, medications, or food items that are past their expiration date. Those will get tossed.
Organize What’s Left
Once I’ve culled down to just the items I use and love, it’s time to organize.
Categorize
I’ll group similar items together – shirts with shirts, pants with pants, etc. Further dividing into short sleeve and long sleeve tops, casual and business attire can help streamline finding what I need.
Utilize Vertical Space
Installing extra shelves and rods can double hanging and folding space. I can also use hanging shoe organizers inside closet doors to store accessories, underwear, socks, and other small items.
Use Clear Storage
Using transparent bins, baskets, and storage containers makes it easier to see what’s inside. Labelling each container helps keep things neat.
Designate Spaces
Giving everything a “home” – one designated spot for shoes, belts, accessories, sweaters, etc. – will make putting things away easier.
Maintain the System
Now that everything has been organized, I need to stay on top of it.
Put Items Away Properly
I’ll take a minute to return items to their assigned spots after wearing or using them. This prevents clutter from accumulating again.
Re-Evaluate Seasonally
At the change of each season, I’ll do a quick purge and clean out anything I didn’t wear all season. Donating those items right away prevents the cycle of clutter.
Limit New Purchases
Before buying anything new, I’ll think about whether I really need and will actually use it. Sticking to necessities will help avoid outgrowing my organized spaces.
Conclusion
By thoroughly decluttering and creating an organizational system that works with my lifestyle, I’m looking forward to maximizing every inch of my closets and drawers. Maintaining organization will take some effort, but having everything neat, tidy and easy to find will make getting ready each day so much more pleasant. I’m excited to see how much space I can free up this spring!
