What I Did Over Holiday Break: Cleaned And Organized My Closet

Cleaning my clothes closet has been on my "to do" list since August.  I finally got the inspiration to git r done over the holiday break.  Here are a few things I did to make the most of the tiny space I call my closet.  In the picture you see me bidding farewell to some of my 80's jeans.  It's time.

We've all heard if you haven't worn it in the last two years, get rid of it. I heard a tip that makes it easy to figure out what you have or haven't worn.  Start with all your clothes facing the same way.  If you wear something, after it's washed hang it facing the opposite way.  At the end of the year, you'll easily know what you didn't dare wear for whatever reason.  Of course, you're more likely to wear something if you can SEE it, therefore organization is a must especially if you want to use ALL available space.

Here's more tips I can attest to:  (because I'm thrilled with my closet now)

We have four seasons, but winter clothes can be worn for almost all of them.  There are some definite "summer time clothes" and those can be packed away until June (probably July) allowing you more room.  I'd tell you to do the same with your winter and fall clothes in the summer, but since I was wearing mittens at Grandma's Marathon last June I'll refrain.

I also have an area that I keep clothes that I can wear more than once before they need to be washed.  Before you gross out, let me explain by saying sweat pants and sweat shirts, k?

If you can, try putting a second closet rod above your main one. BAM? Double space for hanging clothes!  Obviously one bar will accommodate your longer clothes and the shorter one will be for shirts and cute jackets. Also, you can buy those cascading hooks and work fantastic for leggings and scarves.  There are the skirt hangers that allow you to hang several from one hook.

Fold all knit items to prevent shoulder nipples.  That's what I call them and you KNOW you've snickered at someone you've seen with them that pointy material sticking up from their shoulders.  If you don't have a lot of shelf space do what I do, I put my out of season clothes BEHIND the sweaters I'm currently wearing.  ANYTHING to avoid shoulder nipples!

I keep all my underwear in one drawer, my white socks in one drawer and my dark and colored socks in another.  All my running clothes are together and I color coordinate all my hanging clothes, so I know if I need a black jacket, I don't have to search the entire closet, they're all hanging in one spot.

I hope some of my tips have or will help when you decide to clean and organize your closet.  Or, maybe this has given you the inspiration to at least put it on your "to do" list.  Share your ideas for cleaning and organizing, maybe you can help me get even more room!