This 30-Day Closet Clean-Out Will Change Your Wardrobe and Your Life

Updated on 5/5/2020 at 11:35 AM

You can tell a lot about someone from their closet, so what does yours say about you? If you've ever felt overwhelmed by your wardrobe or felt your closet just doesn't serve you, the time has come to take control of your clothes. Instead of fighting to find the things you actually love to wear, we're challenging you to clean out your closet and focus on keeping just what you truly love.

Since diving into a closet revamp can seem intimidating, we broke it down into an easy four-step plan where each week you will tackle a new aspect of the closet clean-out. You'll cleanse and organize, and in just 30 days, you'll find that anyone looking at your closet will know exactly what you're all about. Read on for this easy guide that will help you take control of your wardrobe once and for all.

Week One: Clear It

For your first week in the challenge, the goal is to get a handle on your overflowing closet. For the next seven days, focus on getting rid of things you don't wear so you can make space for what you really love.

Apply the one-year rule — if it's been over a year since you last wore it, get rid of it.
Use the KonMari Method. Does it bring you joy? If not, dump it.
Try your clothes on, to help pare down your closet. If it doesn't fit, it needs to go.
Apply the reverse hanger tactic. Turn all of your hangers around in your closet, and once you wear something, flip the hanger around the right way. After six months, get rid of anything that you still haven't worn.
Eliminate pieces that are torn, stained, or worn out. Unless something has a special sentimental value, chances are you won't wear it again.

Week Two: Sort It

For the second week of the challenge, your goal is to sort out everything you are keeping or giving away. Separate items into categories to help figure out exactly where each item should go.

Make a list of what you're keeping. If you've got a stockpile of jean jackets, or one too many white tees, consider paring it down.
You've made an epic pile of things you won't be holding on to — now it's time to sort it. Divide things into four boxes: donate, trash, repair, and swap.
If anything needs repairing, take it in. Have your shoes and handbags cleaned, and finally get any pieces tailored if you haven't gotten around to it.
Give your closet and dresser a final sweep for things you don't want. Don't miss anything hiding in a dark corner.

Week Three: Get Rid of It

Finally, it's time to tackle your piles, and clear out everything that's been cluttering up your life.

Take your box full of items to be donated and bring them to Goodwill or a local charity. You could also try selling them at a consignment shop if you're looking to make a little extra money.
Toss out any clothing that is beyond repair or wouldn't be right to donate.
Host a clothing swap and give away pieces that don't fit to your friends. That way, they'll get something they love and you'll be free of something you don't need.

Week Four: Organize It

Now that you've finally streamlined your wardrobe, it's time to sort what you have left.

Invest in the right storage items. Invest in slim, matching hangers to help keep your closet clear. Buy clear storage containers for anything big. Consider shelving for shoes and bags.
Fold everything in your drawers. It will make things easier to keep track of.
Decide on a sorting system. Organize items by color or occasion to help make things easy to find.
Keep your clothes seasonal. Store items you won't wear for a few months, and keep everything you'll wear right now easy to access.
Keep up the good work, and continue to reevaluate items over time. Now that you've done a major cleanup, the next one will be easier.