Helen Youn

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Is Your Closet Overdue for a Clean out?

October 1, 2024

When was the last time you decluttered and organized your closet? For some, it's a seasonal habit, while for others, it's been years—or even decades—since they last gave their wardrobe a refresh. Regardless of how often you declutter, an organized closet benefits everyone. Whether you're fashion-forward or prefer a more casual style, a well-organized wardrobe can save you time, money, and even help reduce stress.

An organized closet can streamline your mornings, making it easier to get ready for the day. It also makes packing for any trip a breeze. You'll avoid wasting money on duplicates because you'll clearly see what you already own, and it helps you make smarter shopping decisions when adding new pieces. Perhaps most importantly, a clutter-free space can positively impact your mental health, reducing the stress and anxiety that often come with disorganization.

If you're wondering whether your closet is due for a clean out, here are five telltale signs that point to YES:

1. It Has Been Forever

If you can’t remember when you last decluttered your closet, the time is now! Our clothing needs and preferences change over time, and so do our sizes. Holding onto outdated or ill-fitting items will only clutter up your space. It’s time to reassess and let go of those pieces that have been sitting untouched for too long. The key to a joyful closet is to keep only the clothes that reflect the current you.

2. You Still Own Clothes from a Few Sizes Ago

If you can no longer fit into your clothes—whether they’re too small or too large—they no longer belong in your closet. Holding onto clothes you can’t wear will only create unnecessary clutter. If certain items motivate you to return to a previous size, set them aside and store them elsewhere until they fit again. Remember, everything stored in your closet should fit and flatter the current you. Don’t forget, you are beautiful just the way you are!

3. You’ve Experienced a Major Life Transition

We all go through multiple life transitions. Events like starting a new career, becoming a parent, or entering a new phase of life often come with shifts in our clothing needs. Your wardrobe should support your current ideal lifestyle. If you're still holding onto outfits from your corporate days but now work from home, or keeping pieces from your pre-baby days when your lifestyle has changed, it's time to let them go with gratitude and keep only the items that will serve you going forward.

4. There’s a Layer of Dust on Your Clothes

Clothes can collect dust, even when hanging in a closed closet. If you notice dust settling on the shoulders of your hanged items, it’s a clear sign that they haven’t been worn in a while. Let this be a visual cue that it’s time to clear out those neglected items and refresh your space. When decluttering and organizing a closet, you should take all of the items out of storage. You can also take this opportunity to dust, vacuum, and wipe down all the surfaces and drawers before you put your clothes back.

5. You Have a Closet Full of Clothes but Nothing to Wear

When your closet is stuffed to the brim or unorganized, it becomes difficult to see and access what you have. Trying to decide what to wear each day can become mentally exhausting, often leaving you feeling like you have nothing to wear. I used to own more clothes but instead of feeling excited about all the different outfits I could put together, getting dressed every morning was a stressful event and I was rarely happy with what I chose. Remember, when you only keep what you love, less is more!

How many of these signs did you check off? If it’s more than one, it’s definitely time for a closet clean out! A fresh, organized space can make a world of difference in your daily routine, so it will be well worth the effort. If you’d like some guidance and support to help you get organized, I’m here to assist! Feel free to book a consultation call, and we can chat about your specific needs. Together, we can determine whether my in-home services (Calgary & area) or virtual services (available worldwide) are the right fit for you. Let’s turn that clutter into clarity!