Most people avoid their closets because they are a “disaster”. Let’s address those closets in preparation for your summer wardrobe. It’s surprising what little time it will take and how GOOD you’ll feel when your closets are clutter free. Clearing the clutter from your closets will also clear some clutter from your mind.
Use the 80/20 rule; you wear 20 percent of your clothes 80 percent of the time. With that in mind, here’s how to clear out the clutter and organize your closets.
• Choose a small closet first, like the coat closet, this will afford you some quick success.
– Do not skip around and start a second closet before completing the first one.
• Pace yourself.
– It can take from two to six hours per closet, depending on the size and the clutter.
• Pull everything out of the closet; sort items into like categories, for example: coats, sweaters and jackets.
– Take inventory and eliminate those worn or frayed, out of style, wrong size and duplicate items.
• If you get stuck, ask yourself these questions:
1. Have I worn this in the last year? If not, remove it!
2. Does it fit perfectly? If it belongs to the “when I lose ten pounds” collection… it’s out of here.
3. How do I feel when I wear this? If you don’t smile and feel great when wearing this item, donate it!
Don’t use precious closet space to “store” things you never wear! Take the clothes you have weeded out and donate them. By finding a good home for your items you will be more likely to let them go.
Take stock of what is left. When you put your clothes back in the closet, keep the like items together. Put jackets that you wear most front and center. This makes them easy to grab and go, but even easier to return to their proper place. Place items you wear occasionally to the back or on the sides. This placement scheme will keep your closet organized. Remember, if you have to hunt for it, you probably won’t wear it. Use matching wooden hangers; they are better for heavy items and dress up your closet’s appearance.
To maintain this organization, you’ll need to practice the “one in one out rule” – every time you bring in something new, you must take something out. Keep a donation box nearby.
Now go tackle the next closet. Think of this a treasure hunt and have a good time!
If you have questions for “The Mess Doctor” or need professional assistance to start getting organized, contact Barbara Ricketts (LifeStyle Management Associates) at LMAssociates@comcast.net or call 661-263-0124.