Spring Cleaning: How to Tackle Your Closet

My boyfriend and I just recently moved (eek!) into a slightly smaller one bedroom apartment, with a lot less storage space. While I was stressing out about where everything was going to fit (mainly all of my clothing!), I tried to think of it as a good opportunity to go through things and get rid of what we don't need.

Cleaning out my closet has always been a point of contention for me. I am aware that I hold onto items for far too long - even if I haven't worn them in years. Always with the thought "If I go to Mexico - I might want to wear this!". It's time to face the music, I'm not going to Mexico, and that beaded halter top needs to go. I realized I need to incorporate some strategies, if I want to get serious about getting rid of items in my closet.

I've listed some useful tactics for closet pack rats, like me, who want a fresh start!

1. Rips and stains must go.
This is an easy one. We all have those damaged items that, for some reason we keep telling ourselves we'll take the to tailor/cleaners and get fixed. How many months has it been sitting in your closet in that condition? If it's been a while, and it still hasn't been fixed, chances are you won't be getting it fixed anytime soon. Donate these items.

2. Enlist a friend.
For me, I am able to talk myself into keeping just about ANY item of clothing. Even if I haven't worn the thing in 2 years, I still am able to convince myself I might need it on some future vacation. This is where your opinionated sister/best friend/mother comes in. I find it best to first sort into a "definitely keep" "definitely donate" and "maybe" piles. Then try on the "maybe" pile for your friend.

3. Tag your clothing.
This is a great tip for the super organized person. Put a marker (strip of paper, tie a ribbon, piece of tape) around each hanger in your closet. Mark a date on your calendar 6 months from today to check back. Each time you wear an item of clothing, remove the marker from the hanger. In six months, check back to see which hangers still have the marker on them. Chances are, if you haven't worn the item in the past six months, you probably won't wear it in the near future. Donate!

4. Do you love it?
When I'm shopping with my mom, she always asks "Do you absolutely love it?" If the answer is yes, I'll buy the item. If the answer is "Well, sorta..." The item gets put back. The same logic can apply to the clothing in your closet. You want to love every piece in your closet. If there is a shirt that "only looks good when I'm 10 pounds skinnier" - donate it.

5. Either or technique.
This can be great when deciding between pieces. We all know it's great to have a little black dress - but do you need 6 of them? Try and decide between similar pieces to choose which ones you like best. This will help ensure that you keep some of your favorites, and get rid of the less-cute look-alikes.

6. Create a rule.
This is for someone who doesn't want to take the time to mark their hangers, but essentially uses the same logic. I have a friend who assesses her closet every six months, and if she can't think of when she last wore the item, it gets donated.


Even if you aren't moving, spring cleaning can be a great opportunity to give your home, and closet a needed face lift. Such a good feeling to donate a bunch of items for our

Stay tuned for my next Spring Cleaning post, when I provide a list to tackle your whole house!