The New Year is the perfect time for a fresh start, and what better way to begin than with a beautifully organized custom closet? A tidy closet reduces stress and makes daily routines smoother and more enjoyable. Imagine starting your day by effortlessly selecting an outfit from a clean, streamlined wardrobe tailored to your needs. Decluttering your custom closet before the New Year offers a sense of accomplishment and sets the tone for a more intentional and stress-free year.
From setting clear goals to implementing storage solutions, learn how to create a space that sparks joy and stays organized all year long. Here’s what we’ll cover:
- Set your decluttering goals
- Prepare sorting categories
- Take everything out for a fresh start
- Sort and edit: Be selective with each item
- Organize by category or season
- Make use of closet organizers and storage solutions
- Refresh and add personal touches
- Do these tips for maintaining a clutter-free closet throughout the year
In this blog, I’ll guide you through a step-by-step process to refresh and declutter your custom closet. Keep reading to transform your custom closet into a space that works for you, not against you. Let’s get started!
Set Your Decluttering Goals
Do you want to create more space, simplify your wardrobe, or organize items by season? Having a specific objective helps keep you focused and motivated throughout the decluttering process.
Write down your goals or visualize how your custom closet will look and feel when you're finished. Whether it’s reducing wardrobe choices for a minimalist lifestyle or freeing up space for new additions, knowing your "why" will make decision-making easier and more intentional.
Prepare Sorting Categories
Decluttering is much easier when you have a system. Start by preparing four sorting categories: keep, donate, sell, and discard.
- Keep: Items you wear regularly and love
- Donate: Clothing in good condition that no longer fits or suits your style
- Sell: High-quality pieces that are worth listing online or taking to a consignment shop
- Discard: Anything damaged, stained, or beyond repair
Use labeled bags or boxes to keep these categories organized as you go. Having a clear sorting system helps you stay decisive and prevents unnecessary second-guessing.
Take Everything Out for a Fresh Start
Yes, everything! Remove all items from your custom closet, and lay them out in a designated area, such as your bed or a clean floor space. Seeing your entire wardrobe at once can be eye-opening—it’s amazing how much we accumulate over time!
This step may seem overwhelming, but it’s crucial for creating a "blank slate." Once the closet is empty, you’ll have a better perspective on how to reimagine your space and make the most of it.
Sort and Edit: Be Selective with Each Item
Now comes the heart of the decluttering process: deciding what stays and what goes. Pick up each item and ask yourself:
- Does it still fit?
- Do I wear it often?
- Does it suit my current style or lifestyle?
- Does it bring me joy?
Be honest with yourself. Let go of “just in case” pieces or items you feel obligated to keep. Trust that a simplified wardrobe filled with pieces you truly love and use will serve you better.
Organize by Category or Season
Once you’ve narrowed down your wardrobe, it’s time to put everything back in an organized manner. Group items by category—like tops, pants, and dresses—or by season, depending on what works best for your lifestyle.
Organizing by category or season makes it easier to find what you need and helps you see how much you have in each area. Plus, a tidy and categorized closet saves time on busy mornings and reduces decision fatigue.
Make Use of Closet Organizers and Storage Solutions
Custom closets are designed for flexibility, so make the most of them by incorporating storage solutions that maximize space. Add shelves, dividers, bins, and hanging organizers to keep items neat and easily accessible.
For example:
- Use drawer dividers for accessories, like belts and scarves.
- Invest in undershelf baskets for shoes.
- Add hooks for ties or necklaces.
These tools prevent clutter from creeping back in and help maintain a tidy space. It’s OK to get creative about storage too. For instance, if you have a collection of purses, Nordstrom demonstrates several options, from hooks and other hanging solutions to boxes and drawers, to options that allow you to display and store, such as wall shelves or smaller shelving units. When displayed, those items become not just another item you need to store, but also a decorative element of your closet.
Refresh and Add Personal Touches
Take a few minutes to give your closet a little TLC. Wipe down shelves, dust surfaces, and consider adding a fresh scent with lavender sachets or cedar blocks. Small decorative touches, like a favorite framed photo or a stylish box for keepsakes, can make your closet feel special and inviting.
Treat your custom closet as a curated space that reflects your style and personality. When your closet feels intentional and personalized, you’re more likely to keep it organized and clutter-free.
Do These Tips for Maintaining a Clutter-Free Closet Throughout the Year
Now that your closet is decluttered, keep it that way with these simple tips:
- One In, One Out Rule: For every new item you bring in, remove one item to maintain balance.
- Seasonal Check-Ins: Dedicate time at the start of each season to assess your wardrobe and remove anything that no longer serves you.
- Mindful Shopping: Buy with intent and purpose to avoid accumulating unnecessary items.
Consistency is key! Regular upkeep prevents clutter from building up and ensures your custom closet stays organized year-round.
Conclusion
Decluttering your custom closet before the New Year is a rewarding process that brings clarity, space, and a fresh mindset. With less stress and more organization, you’ll start the year feeling ready to tackle anything. So set aside some time, follow these steps, and enjoy the transformation as you create a closet that sparks joy and makes your life easier.
