Spendster | 3 Steps to an Uncluttered Closet

Closets are meant to be crammed with stuff. No matter what you hang, stack, or throw in them, you can close the door and choose when, if ever, you want to see those items again. But when it comes to cleaning out these monstrosities of storage, it takes some motivation and discipline.

Give yourself a reason.

Sorting through a closet is a chore, so give yourself an incentive to take on the job.

Moving. Who wants to move another box full of stuff, when you know you won’t use it in the new place? Build in a little extra packing time, so you can separate out what you do and don’t want to keep.

Getting organized. Messy closets or drawers can stress you out, especially if you can’t find something you want when you really need it. Commit some of your free time to tidying up—you’ll thank yourself later.

Clearing space. There’s only so far you can push those hangers to create more room for clothes and accessories. Just ask Kelli, whose closet was overflowing with useless stuff.
Changing seasons. Many people change out the items in their closets based on the season. As you make the switch, push yourself to assess what you already have and recycle anything you no longer need before adding anything new to your wardrobe.

Go hard-line.

Unless you give yourself some guidelines, you risk second-guessing every sorting decision you make. Get rid of anything that:

Doesn’t fit anymore. Sure, we all have those skinny jeans we long to fit into, but the chances of that happening with all your too-tight garments are slim.
Still has the tag on it. Remember that moment of hesitation you experienced at the checkout counter? Your intuition was right—you’ve never worn it, and you never will.
Is out of style. Fashion tends to repeat itself, but you might be waiting a long time for your favorite outfit from the ’90s to come back into style.
Has holes or scuffs. Unless you bought the garment or shoe that way on purpose, get rid of anything that has had its better days.

If you’re on the fence about an item, bring in a trusted friend or family member for a second opinion.

Rid responsibly.

Don’t just throw away everything you don’t want; get something out of it.

Sell your unwanted items on Craigslist or eBay, at a local consignment shop, or through a garage sale. If you are too busy or lazy to sell it yourself, hire a company like Gone for Good in Littleton, Colo. that will pick up and sell your items for you.
Give them away. Donate clothes and accessories to local organizations such as Goodwill or community shelters. You’ll feel good that your items are going to a good cause.
Recycle. You can recycle anything these days. For example, this Reuse-a-Shoe program will turn your old kicks into new athletic courts, fields, or playgrounds.

What are your tricks for tackling the clutter in your home? Share them below or on Facebook.