Why declutter your closet?
Keeping an overstuffed, disorganized closet can be frustrating. When you open your closet doors, you want to feel inspired by what you see – not overwhelmed.
Here are some key reasons why decluttering your closet is worthwhile:
You’ll actually wear more of what you own
When your closet is cluttered, it’s easy for clothes to get buried and forgotten. Decluttering helps uncover forgotten items so you can reincorporate them into your wardrobe rotation. You’ll wear more of what you already have instead of constantly buying new clothes.
You’ll reduce closet clutter
Decluttering removes pieces you no longer wear, freeing up space in your closet. With less visual clutter, it will be easier to see everything you own. Reducing excess items helps prevent closet clutter from building back up.
You’ll feel more put together
Having an orderly closet makes getting dressed easier and more enjoyable. When you open your closet and see only pieces you love, you’ll feel put together. Decluttering your closet helps you look and feel your best each day.
How to declutter your closet
Decluttering your closet can feel daunting, but it doesn’t have to be! Follow these steps to get organized:
1. Take everything out of your closet
This gives you a blank slate to work with. As you remove items, sort them into piles:
- Keep – items you wear and love
- Donate – gently used items you’re ready to part with
- Sell – higher value items in good condition
- Trash – items that are worn out, damaged, or unsellable
2. Try everything on
This step is key! It ensures you only keep clothes that fit your current body and style.
As you try items on, ask yourself:
- Do I feel amazing when I wear this?
- When would I wear this? Does it fit my lifestyle?
- Does this fit properly? Is it loose, tight, or just right?
- Is this item in good condition?
If you answer “no” to any of these questions, consider donating or selling the item.
3. Return kept items to your closet
Only return items you truly love and wear to your closet. Arrange them neatly so you can see everything. Group items by type (shirts, pants, dresses, etc) and color. Invest in matching hangers to create a polished look.
4. Catalog extra inventory
If you have off-season items or overflow, consider storing them elsewhere like under the bed or in the garage. Use clear bins and label them so items are easy to find later. Rotate seasonal clothing in/out of your main closet as needed.
Maximize closet storage space
Once you’ve decluttered, it’s time to maximize your newfound space! Here are helpful tips:
Use vertical space
Install a second rod above your existing closet rod to double hanging space. Hang pants, skirts, and shirts above one another.
Use shelf dividers or stackable bins to store sweaters, jeans, and other folded items. This takes advantage of valuable vertical real estate.
Opt for slim hangers
Slim velvet hangers take up less space than chunky plastic ones. Use slim hangers to hang shirts, dresses, and delicate items.
Hang multiple accessories together
Use multi-hook hangers or chain accessories together to hang multiple items in one space. This works great for belts, scarves, and necklaces.
Invest in closet systems
Consider closet systems like Elfa or The Container Store to add shelving, drawers, and other storage components tailored to your space. This provides a place for everything.
Maintain with regular decluttering
Decluttering your closet is an ongoing process. Set aside time 4-6 months to re- declutter your closet so it doesn’t become overstuffed again.
Continue assessing items as you add new pieces to your wardrobe. Maintaining your organized closet is easier than tackling a giant mess all at once!
With some time and effort, you can transform your closet into an organized oasis. Follow these decluttering tips to gain closet space and reduce stress. You’ll be inspired each morning as you get ready in your fresh, clutter-free closet!
