5 steps to an organized closet

Since seemingly becoming an overnight sensation with her Netflix series, organization guru Marie Kondo has inspired a whole population to de-clutter. Kondo’s secret to tidying is going through one’s home one possession at a time and eliminating anything that doesn’t spark joy. According to Kondo, to know if something sparks joy, you need to pick it up. This could be your favorite book, a family heirloom or that special sweater that always makes you feel warm and cozy. Hold it in your hands and try to get a sense of how it makes you feel. If it sparks joy, keep it. If not, get rid of it!

In that spirit, we present to you the ultimate guide on how to organize your closet, just in time for spring cleaning!

Step 1: Assess Your Big Obstacles

Are your shoes overtaking the space? Try a hanging-shoe rack or over-the-door organizer. Do your clothes overcrowd? Thinner hangers create space so you can find things easier. Feeling rushed each morning? Dividing shirts, dresses, jeans, etc. brings a sense of order and saves time. Solving your biggest problem will motivate you to create the closet of your dreams.

Step 2: Take an Hour

Scheduling just 60 minutes a week can really make a dent in your overstuffed, cluttered closet. If you can’t spare that much time, try two half-hour sessions. Allowing yourself the time to organize your life is always rewarding.

Step 3: Start from Scratch

Take everything (yes, everything) out of your closet. If you don’t remove it all, chances are the same unworn clothes will be moved around the closet. Now it’s time to sort. Throw out old and damaged clothing. Donate what you don’t need or don’t wear.

Step 4: Organize in Sections

Designate a place for everything in your closet. Shoes in one place, sweaters in another and so on. This will help you keep order and save you time each morning. And make smart use of the space; installing shelves will double your storage and help sweaters and T-shirts keep their shape better.

Step 5: Put One In; Take One Out

For each new item you buy and put in your closet, donate one item (or pitch it if it’s past its prime). This will keep you from returning to your pack-rat ways.

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