Key takeaways
- Empty the closet completely before you decide
- Use four piles: keep, donate, store and toss
- Ask whether it fits, whether you wear it and whether you love it
- Put keepers back in order, not in a heap
Empty it first
Take everything out and lay it on the bed. You cannot judge what you own while it is crammed on a rod, and seeing everything at once is often the most useful part.
Group items by type: tops, bottoms, dresses, outerwear, shoes, accessories.
Sort with three questions
Does it fit now? Have I worn it in the last year? Do I feel good in it? A yes to all three means keep. If it fits but you never wear it, ask why.
Make four piles: keep, donate, store for next season and toss. Keep the donate bag by the door so it actually leaves the house.
Return with a plan
Put keepers back by category and, if you like, by color. Hang what you wear most at easy height and put seasonal items higher or lower.
Our Declutter Deck turns the questions into a quick game and gives you a simple summary at the end.
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Quick answers
How often should I declutter?
Once or twice a year is plenty for most people, often when seasons change.
What if I cannot decide?
Box it, date the box and revisit in a few months. If you have not needed it, you can let it go.
Ready to talk it through? Get a free estimate or call 800-207-0499.