Cleaning out your closet is something you shouldn’t do very often. Women go shopping for many different occasions, such as when we need an outfit for an event, something to do with the girls or something to do with our free time, and something to do when you’re stressed… more commonly known as ‘therapy’. Shopping’. Now, if we are going to do all these purchases we have to make room in our closets (especially since trends are constantly changing and we don’t wear all the clothes as much as we should). In today’s post, I’m going to go over the best way to clean out your closet, what to get rid of and what not to get rid of, some other tips and tricks in between, and what to do with clothes you no longer want. Buckle up, it’s going to be a long ride!

The most common mistakes we make when cleaning out our closets is getting rid of the basics. This is something we have to learn not to do. We look at a basic white t-shirt and assume it’s taking up space because it’s so basic. Well… you’re wrong. Basic clothing is the most important in our wardrobe because we can combine it with anything. Basic clothing items are what really help us make our cute outfits and put them together. Also, when we feel lazy, we can put on our white t-shirt and the tenth pair of black leggings we have and call it a day. On another note, when I say “essentials,” I’m also referring to the not-so-basic items we wear under jackets or when it’s cooler outside. Turtlenecks, tank tops, long-sleeved shirts, or even scarves are great to keep. While it may seem like multiple turtlenecks aren’t necessary, they are because they work so well in the winter. A little side note you need to replace your underwear after a while. I personally replace underwear at least twice a year. If a pair is in excellent condition, then it’s fine to keep, but there will be some pairs that aren’t worth keeping and just tossing and replacing. When it comes to shoes, they have a longer lifespan. For example, it’s good to keep a pair of black heels because they go with so many different outfits, while peep toes with a 2-inch platform are good to throw on because you’ll want to avoid wearing them as much as possible.

When it comes to getting rid of a lot of items, it becomes difficult to decide which ones to throw away. Usually the ones we get rid of are the ones we have duplicates of, which isn’t a bad thing. The ones we want to avoid getting rid of are jeans and basics. The ones we actually want to get rid of are the multiple white button-down shirts we have in the same color. At least get rid of one, two, or even three of them (unless you’re a businesswoman, I must say). Also, the clothes that sit in the back of your closet and have been worn three times in the last few years need to go. You’re actually taking up more valuable space than you think, and if you haven’t used it, then you don’t need it! Another good tip to remember is not to save things that you hope will come back in style. For example bandage dresses… get rid of them. They should never go back in style! Also, if you have a dress that you wear to every wedding or cocktail party, it may be time to throw it out and replace it with a new one. It’s fine to have an outfit dedicated to events like those, but after a few years (or two or three weddings), it’s time to get a new updated outfit. Last but not least, you should throw away clothes that don’t make you feel good when you wear them. Why wear clothes that don’t make you feel confident and beautiful? There is no reason to do that. Now that you’ve gotten rid of the clothes that don’t fit you, you have more space to fill your closet with better clothes!

Now that you’ve cleaned out your closet, there are a few options for what to do next with your clothes. First, you can donate them, which is my favorite option. Taking items to Goodwill or The Salvation Army makes everyone feel good. The best part of taking clothes to these stores is that if the clothes are damaged or not in good enough condition to sell, they recycle them and turn them into new textiles or even insulation. Another option is to offer them to friends who may need them. The last option is to sell the clothes that are in good condition to a store like Plato’s Closet. Plato’s Closet is a little strict about the clothes they receive because they don’t accept clothes with holes, tears, tears, stains, etc. But the clothes they do accept will be offered for cash so that’s always a plus side.

Now that you know what to throw away and what not to throw away and what to do with the clothes you don’t put away… cleaning out your closet should be a lot easier! Cleaning out your closet can also be therapeutic and fun. Put on your favorite music and enjoy while you organize. I know it’s hard to get rid of clothes you’ve had for so long, sentimental clothes, or clothes you may think you’ll need (but won’t really). Just know that organizing and tossing clothes leaves more room for new clothes that are more fashionable and will get more wear! I hope this has helped! Good luck fashionistas.