Is your closet overflowing with clothes, yet you somehow always feel like you have nothing to wear? If your wardrobe is bursting at the seams, it’s time for a decluttering and home organising refresh!
A tidy, well-organised closet doesn’t just look good, it saves you time, reduces decision fatigue, and creates a space that feels peaceful and intentional. And honestly? There’s something incredibly satisfying about finally letting go of that old sweater from 2012 that’s been hiding in the back for way too long.
Ready to reclaim your closet and make getting dressed a joy again? Here’s your 7-step guide to decluttering and organising your closet like a pro!
Step 1: Take Everything Out (Yes, Everything!)
You can’t organise a cluttered mess. Begin by removing all items from your closet, including clothes, shoes, accessories, and even those tucked away in drawers or storage boxes. This complete removal allows you to see the full extent of your wardrobe, often revealing forgotten pieces.
Pro Tip: Lay your clothes on your bed or a clean surface. This not only provides a clear view but also encourages you to finish the task before bedtime, no procrastinating!
Best for: Getting a fresh start and seeing how much you really own.
Step 2: Sort into Categories
Before deciding what stays and what goes, group similar items together. Organise your clothing into specific categories to streamline the decluttering process. Common categories include:
- Tops (casual, workwear, special occasion)
- Bottoms (jeans, trousers, skirts)
- Dresses & jumpsuits
- Jackets & outerwear
- Shoes
- Accessories (scarves, belts, handbags)
Why it works: This process helps identify duplicates and assess the quantity of each type of clothing you own.
Step 3: Declutter Your Closet Ruthlessly
Now for the hard part is deciding what to keep and what to let go. For that you need to use the 3-Question Rule to make it easier.
Evaluate each item with a critical eye. Ask yourself:
- Have I worn this in the last year?
- Does it fit me well and make me feel confident?
- Would I buy it again today?
If the answer is “no” to any of these questions, it’s time to say goodbye!
- Donate: Clothes in good condition that no longer suit your style
- Sell: Designer or high-end pieces you no longer wear
- Toss: Anything damaged, stained, or beyond repair
Pro Tip: Create a “Maybe Box” for items you’re uncertain about. Revisit this box after 30 days, if you haven’t missed or needed the items, it’s time to part ways.
Step 4: Maximise Your Closet Storage Space
Now that you’ve decluttered, it’s time to optimise your storage so your wardrobe stays neat and functional. With a curated selection of clothing, focus on optimising your storage:
- Use Slim, Velvet Hangers: Say goodbye to bulky, mismatched hangers that eat up valuable closet space and make your wardrobe look chaotic. Investing in slim, non-slip velvet hangers not only saves space but also adds a cohesive, boutique-style feel to your closet. These hangers are gentle on fabrics and help prevent clothes from slipping to the floor, keeping everything neat and ready to wear.
- Double Your Hanging Space with a Second Rod: Maximise vertical space by adding a second hanging rod beneath your main one. This simple upgrade is perfect for shorter items like blouses, t-shirts, and skirts. By dividing your hanging sections, you essentially double your storage capacity without needing a bigger closet.
- Use Shelf Dividers & Storage Bins to Stay Tidy: Shelves can easily become clutter zones if left unstructured. Use sturdy shelf dividers to separate piles of sweaters, jeans, and bags so they don’t topple over or mix together. Incorporate labeled storage bins for accessories, handbags, seasonal items, or even workout gear. These bins keep everything in its place, make retrieval easier, and help you maintain the organisation long-term, because a tidy shelf is a stress-free shelf.
Step 5: Organise by Category & Colour for a Visually Appealing Closet Organisation
A well-organised closet makes getting dressed quick and easy. Arrange your clothing by category and then by colour within each category. This method not only creates a visually appealing closet but also simplifies the process of selecting outfits.
Why it works: You’ll instantly see what you have, and outfits become easier to mix and match.
Pro Tip: Keep everyday essentials at eye level and less-used items (special occasion wear, off-season clothing) up high.
Step 6: Use Smart Shoe Storage for Effective Closet Organisation
Shoes can quickly clutter a closet. Implement smart and easy storage solutions to keep them tidy:
- Over-the-Door Shoe Organisers: These are great for small closets!
- Clear Shoe Boxes: To protect and keep dust off and stack them neatly.
- Boot Hangers or Stands: To prevent boots from slouching and creasing.
Pro Tip: Store shoes heel-to-toe on shelves to fit more in less space!
Step 7: Maintain Closet Organisation with Labels & a One-In, One-Out Rule
A clean closet only stays that way if you keep up with it! Sustain your organised closet by:
- Using labels: Labeling bins and shelves to ensure everything has a designated spot.
- Adopting the “One-In, One-Out” Rule: If you buy something new, remove an old item to keep clutter in check.
- Doing a quick tidy-up every month: Conducting a quick monthly tidy-up prevents mess from creeping back in.
Pro Tip: Keep a donation bag in your closet—when something no longer works for you, drop it in and donate when full!
Your Dream Closet Awaits!
A decluttered and organised wardrobe makes mornings smoother, outfits easier to style, and your space feel so much more peaceful. By following these 7 simple steps, you’ll have a closet that’s functional, beautiful, and easy to maintain.
An organised wardrobe isn’t just about aesthetics, it saves you time, energy, and mental clutter. You’ll rediscover pieces you love, dress with more ease, and start your day feeling more intentional.
By following these 7 simple closet organisation steps, you’ll be well on your way to a wardrobe that’s functional, beautiful, and easy to maintain. From smoother mornings to more confident outfit choices, the benefits go far beyond the physical space.
Celebrate your progress! Whether you’ve cleared a single shelf or tackled your entire closet, every bit counts. This journey is about making your home work for you, not living up to someone else’s Pinterest-perfect standard.
If you need extra support, our team at Ducks In A Row is here to help. We offer 1:1 support to help you streamline your surroundings, reclaiming space and serenity in your home.
If you’re ready to take on more home-organising projects, check out our other blogs.
