Cleaning out your closet always seems to be very difficult.  Once the decision is made to tackle the task, you will be happy that you did.  The most difficult part of cleaning your closet is determining what items will go back into your closet. To help with this decision first begin by removing every article from your closet.  You might want to begin in stages if you don’t have a few hours to spare.

Be sure to have boxes or bags available, so when you decide to dispose of an item you can place in appropriate container without the chance of changing your mind.  Here are some tips to guide you in making the decision on what to keep and not to keep.

1.  Check the item for stains or tears – if the article of clothing has either of these, it is time to dispose

2.   Size – if the item is too big or too small, it is time to dispose or donate

3.   Style – it is true that some styles are cyclic, but some should not be, so dispose of those items as well

4.   Time – if it has been over a year since you last wore an item, it is time to donate unless it is seasonal, but most likely you will never wear again if it’s been over a year.

Cleaning out your closet although time consuming should be done at least once a year. If you can maintain your closet clean and organized you will be able to see what you wear and what you don’t and dispose of it quicker.  You will then have more room for other items you will wear more often.  These same tips can apply to all the closets and drawers in your home, the more you keep up with them the less clutter you will have.

Shop Your Closet: The Ultimate Guide to Organizing Your Closet with Style

photo credit: jdn