Closet Organizing 101
Is your closet crowded? Does it take longer than you want to find your favorite top? Do you buy new clothing only to find you already have something similar in your closet? Do you have items with tags still on? If you answered yes to any of these questions, it might be time to organize your closet.
Step 1 - Pick a day when you have a couple of hours to dedicate to your closet organizing project.
Step 2 - Choose a category of clothing - pants, jeans, tops, workout gear, dresses, pajamas, shoes, etc.
Step 3 - Gather all the items from your closet that fit that category and put them on your bed. If you have clothes in other closets of your home, collect those too. And, don’t forget about the drawers. It’s important to have all the items of the category you are sorting in one place.
Step 4 - Observe how you feel looking at the quantity of clothing. Are you surprised by how much you have? Did you find things you haven’t seen in years? Are there some items that might not fit? If you are unsure, try them on.
Step 5 - Sort through all the clothes you’ve gathered. This will be the most time-consuming step in the process. Sometimes it’s helpful to break down the items you’ve collected into smaller categories - formal/casual, summer/winter. Set aside for donation any articles of clothing that fit any of these criteria:
You haven’t worn it in at least a year
Outdated or no longer your style
Doesn’t match your current lifestyle
Stained, worn out, or in need of repair
Poorly fitting
Multiples of the same item
Step 7 - Choose your keepers. Your closet and/or drawer space will determine how much you should keep. Everything should fit comfortably and be easily accessible.
Step 8 - Put away all the articles you’ve decided to keep. Group like items together and even consider arranging by color. Slim hangers can help maximize the capacity of your space. Hanging clothing on the same type and color hanger will create a more uniform look.
Step 9 - Donate your extra items to the charity of your choice.
Happy Organizing!!
Kari is a Team Lead for Smart Moves in Greenfield, Wisconsin. Organizing is one of her many passions.