How to Declutter Your Closet in Five Easy Steps

We often are faced with the struggle of emotional attachment to the things that we own, which is often driven by guilt over money spent, regret, or holding onto past versions of ourselves. This is especially true when it comes to letting go of pre-loved clothing. Yet, beneath the pile of clothes peeking out of our wardrobe lies a bigger reality: the environmental impact of these items and the potential they hold for reuse.

And once we finally decide to let go and start organising our wardrobe, the hardest part, decluttering, unfolds naturally through organising, visualising, and setting clear goals.

Here are 5 easy sustainable steps to make your wardrobe suited to your style and promote a more sustainable planet.

Set Time Aside

The first step in any real journey is preparing yourself for the rollercoaster of emotions ahead. Choose a specific day and time in your busy schedule for this task, because it’s an important one. This ensures you can give your full attention and commitment to decluttering your wardrobe.

Empty Your Closet

Laying out every item you own gives you a clear view of what to keep, donate, or discard. This step not only helps you see your wardrobe clearly but also lets you visualise your end goal.

Get Containers

Having a dedicated place for your clothes helps them stay organised and prevents the panic of making the “wrong” decision when letting items go. You can use boxes, garbage bags, clothes baskets, totes, or any containers large enough to hold a good amount of clothing. Make sure to use containers that you won’t need again for a while.

Sort and Prioritise

Grouping your clothing into piles helps you see what you actually have and whether anything is in excess. Be honest and firm while sorting, so you don’t hold onto items you don’t need. Then, arrange your wardrobe in a way that feels practical and easy to maintain. Keep similar items together and use bags or baskets to save space and keep everything neat.

Store and Maintain Regularly

To keep your wardrobe from overflowing again, get into the habit of regularly reviewing your clothes every once in a while and letting go of anything that no longer fits your lifestyle or the person you’re becoming. A quick mini-declutter every few months is enough. After that, put everything back neatly so you can actually use what you already own and only buy what you truly need.

If you're feeling the urge to shop and replace your items, remember that buying less and better is the way to go. Alternatively, buying secondhand items is a good place to start; that way, you're shopping sustainably and cultivating better habits.