When the amount of stuff in your closet makes it challenging to open without getting toppled by clothes, boxes, and anything else it contains, it’s time to declutter. The right decluttering strategy not only allows you to get rid of what you don’t need, but it also makes it easier to use the closet moving forward. Review these tips to get started.

4 Decluttering Tips to Help You Tackle Your Closet

1. Take Everything Out

Remove everything from your closet and clean the space so what you keep doesn’t sit in dust and other debris. Vacuum the floor, wipe down any shelves, and remove cobwebs from all corners as you start thinking about what can be given away to family and friends, donated to charity, or sold at auction. If you share the closet with your partner or another family member, make them aware of your decluttering project so they can go through their items as well.

2. Make Categories

Create categories based on your closet contents, such as “Clothes I Want To Try On” and “Clothes To Give Away,” as well as piles for items you plan to donate and sell. Try on clothes you want to keep, as you may find something you thought you loved doesn’t suit your style anymore. Also, apply the one-year rule for belongings you are unsure about; if you haven’t used an item in more than a year, consider giving it away unless it has serious sentimental value or is a family heirloom.

3. Create Sections

Designate sections of your closet for certain items once you have a working idea of what you want to keep. For example, consider hanging winter sweaters and other seasonal clothing you don’t immediately need in the back of the closet along with holiday decorations and seasonal sporting equipment. Use any shelves in your closet to store like items, such as boxes of memorabilia or swimwear. Also, switch out cardboard boxes for clear plastic containers that make it easy to see what’s in storage and protect items against insects and dust.

4. Take Your Time

Remember to breathe as you cull, as there is no need to make decisions about everything in your closet right away. Set aside an hour or so every day to avoid feeling pressured about what you want to keep and making decisions you will regret later. If you are still at a loss after a few days, consider hiring a home organization service for professional decluttering help. 

Decluttering assistance awaits at Cincinnati Closets®, the home organization company serving the Greater Cincinnati, OH area for over two decades. The closet organizers use only the highest-quality materials to build custom closets in addition to providing meticulous decluttering services. Call (513) 631-7939 today for a free estimate or visit the website for information about transferable warranties and their 100% satisfaction guarantee.