Isn’t it crazy how fast the kids seem to outgrow their clothes and their hobbies?? One area in my house that seems to be on the never ending list to do is cleaning the closets. Now this task can go faster with a good methodical process in place. (I have included affiliate links to products I love. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. )
If you have problems closing your closet door because it is so stuffed, just know that you are not alone. I mean have you ever counted how many are in your house?? I really recommend before starting listing them out and the goals for the contents before diving into the closet.
Empty out your closet completely- Think of this as a closet cleanse. Take every single thing that is in your closet and place it all on your bed, on the floor or wherever. Once you have everything in one pile, you can visually see how much stuff you actually have.
Clean your closet– While the closet is empty, wash the walls and shelves and vacuum the carpet. This will help get rid of the smells and cobwebs that may be lingering in there. Now if you are height challenged like me you can use a Swiffer duster to get to the parts you can’t reach, trust me this is a life saver. Plus it’s easy enough your kids can use it around the house to help with dusting as well.
Swiffer 360 Disposable Cleaning Dusters Refills, Unscented, with 1 Handle and 14 Refills
Time to separate stuff– Get some empty cardboard boxes; you will need three actually. One is for things you are keeping, one is for things you are donating and one is for things you are throwing out. Now, it is time to go through each and every piece of clothing and accessory you have accumulated over time. This includes shoes as well. Any clothing that you no longer want or no longer fits can be put in the donated box.
Follow the one-year rule– When you are having a tough time deciding what to keep and what not to keep, use the one-year rule. If you haven’t worn it or used it in the past year, get rid of it. After all, let’s face it, you will probably never wear those pink leopard pants again. The goal here is to have a closet that is filled with things you love wearing instead of a closet that is overstuffed with things you will never wear. If you are on the fence I use this method -> here for hanging clothes back up so in 3 to 6 months I can see if I have used the clothing or not.
Organize as you put things back– Once you have everything separated, it is time to put back the things you are keeping. The key here is to organize so things are easier to locate. Place things you use often at eye-level and save the top shelf or back of the closet for things like seasonal clothing. Add drawers for clothing that folds and cubbies for odds and ends. A hanging shoe rack on the closet door will help organize shoes. You can also hang hooks inside your closet for additional storage space. Totes are a great way with a label to store seasonal clothes as well as extra linens and shoes.
SimpleHouseware 5 Shelves Hanging Closet Organizer, BronzeOrganize It All Closet Doubler (1346W)Pro-Mart DAZZ Smart Carousel Organizer, 5-Tier, Beige
How often do you clean your closet? Any good tips for cleaning a closet?
Emily says
My closet is in major need of a clean-out right now. They’ll definitely come in hand 😉
Lauren says
Good tips! This post was picked as a favorite this week!
Chantae says
One of my goals for this month! Clean out all of our closets! There’s so many, but my kids can help with their own!