By Alexander Georges ·
Organize Phase|Step 20 of 23
Declutter Closet
An organized closet makes mornings easier and your bedroom feel calmer. Donate what you don't wear and organize what remains.
Time Required
2-4 hours
Cost
$0-200 for organizers
Difficulty
Moderate (emotionally)
The Declutter Process
1
Take everything out
Yes, everything. Pile it on the bed. You need to see the full scope of what you have.
2
Sort into categories
Group like with like: tops, bottoms, dresses, outerwear, etc. This reveals duplicates.
3
Make decisions on each item
Keep, donate, trash, or maybe (store the maybe pile for 30 days, if you don't retrieve it, donate).
4
Put back thoughtfully
Group by category, then by color. Most-worn items at eye level and easy reach.
Questions to Ask About Each Item
- • Have I worn this in the past year? (If no, probably donate)
- • Does it fit right now? (Not "when I lose weight", now)
- • Does it need repairs? (Will you actually fix it?)
- • Do I feel good wearing it? (If it makes you feel frumpy, let it go)
- • Do I have something similar but better? (Keep the better one)
- • Would I buy this today? (If no, why keep it?)
Organization Tips
- • Match your hangers: Uniform hangers look neat and save space
- • Use the closet rod wisely: Hang by category, then light to dark within each
- • Maximize vertical space: Shelf dividers, stackable bins, hanging organizers
- • Clear shoe storage: See what you have so you actually wear it
- • Seasonal rotation: Store off-season items under bed or on high shelf
Where to Donate
- • Goodwill/Salvation Army: Take almost anything, tax deductible
- • ThredUp: Send a bag, they sell online, you get credit
- • Local women's shelters: Often need professional clothing
- • Buy Nothing groups: Post on Facebook for neighbors to claim
- • Textile recycling: For items not suitable for donation (stained, torn)
Pro Tips
- •The hanger trick: Turn all hangers backward. After wearing, hang correctly. After 6 months, donate what's still backward.
- •One in, one out: For every new item, one old item leaves. Prevents re-accumulation.
- •Don't buy organizers first: Declutter first, then buy only what you need for what remains.
- •Take photos: Document your organized closet. Motivation to maintain it.