How to Start Organising Your Closet Without Feeling Overwhelmed

A cluttered closet can feel like an overwhelming black hole, swallowing up your mornings and making you dread getting dressed. But it doesn’t have to be this way. With a clear plan and a few simple techniques, you can transform your chaotic wardrobe into a beautifully organised space that sparks calm and inspiration. Let’s break down the process so you can finally take control of your closet, step by step.

Why Closet Organisation Matters

Your wardrobe isn’t just a storage space—it reflects your personal style, daily routines, and even your mindset. A messy closet can make your mornings stressful, as you waste time rummaging for an outfit. On the other hand, an organised wardrobe saves time, reduces decision fatigue, and even helps you rediscover clothes you’d forgotten about. It’s a small change with a big impact on your daily life.

Step 1: Clear It Out Completely

The first step to tackling your closet is to empty it entirely. Yes, this means taking every single item out—clothes, shoes, bags, accessories, and even those forgotten bits shoved at the back.

Why clear it all out? Because it’s impossible to organise properly if you don’t start with a blank canvas. Seeing everything laid out will also give you a better sense of what you actually own and what might need to go.

Pro tip: Lay everything on your bed so you’re forced to finish the task before bedtime!

Step 2: Sort Into Categories

Once your closet is empty, start sorting your items into categories. Common categories include:

• Tops (split into shirts, blouses, T-shirts, etc.)

• Bottoms (trousers, jeans, skirts)

• Dresses

• Outerwear (jackets, coats)

• Shoes

• Accessories (scarves, belts, jewellery)

Sorting makes it easier to evaluate how much you have in each category. You might realise, for example, that you have five black jumpers but only one pair of work trousers. This awareness is crucial for decluttering and planning how to organise your wardrobe.

Step 3: Declutter Using the “Wear It or Lose It” Test

Now comes the most important part: deciding what stays and what goes. For each item, ask yourself these key questions:

• When was the last time I wore this?

• Does it fit comfortably and flatter me?

• Does it suit my current lifestyle and style preferences?

• If I saw this in a shop today, would I buy it?

If the answer to any of these questions is “no,” it’s time to part ways with that item. Create three piles:

1. Keep: For items you love, wear, and need.

2. Donate: For items in good condition that someone else could use.

3. Recycle: For worn-out items that aren’t fit for donation.

Be honest with yourself during this process. Holding onto items “just in case” often leads to clutter.

Step 4: Create a Storage System That Works

With your keep pile sorted, it’s time to return items to your closet in a way that makes sense for your daily life. Consider these tips:

• Hanging vs Folding: Hang items like dresses, blouses, and jackets to prevent wrinkles. Fold bulkier items like jumpers to save hanging space.

• Matching Hangers: Invest in slim, matching hangers to create a cohesive look and maximise space. Velvet hangers are great for preventing slippage.

• Seasonal Storage: If your closet is small, store off-season clothes in clear bins or vacuum-sealed bags. Rotate them out when the seasons change.

• Zones: Arrange clothes by type and colour to make it easier to find what you need. For example, hang all your shirts together and arrange them by colour from light to dark.

Step 5: Use the One In, One Out Rule

Once your closet is organised, maintain the balance by adopting the One In, One Out Rule. Every time you buy a new item, remove an old one. This prevents clutter from building up again and encourages mindful shopping.

Pro tip: If you tend to shop impulsively, try the “Buy One, Get Rid of Two” rule instead. This forces you to be even more selective about what you add to your wardrobe.

Step 6: Build a Habit of Maintenance

Decluttering isn’t a one-time job—it’s an ongoing process. To keep your closet in tip-top shape, schedule a mini-decluttering session every few months. Use these sessions to assess whether you’ve accumulated items you no longer need or if your wardrobe needs refreshing.

Bonus Tips for Closet Organisation

• Utilise Vertical Space: Install hooks or over-the-door racks for accessories like scarves, belts, and bags.

• Drawer Dividers: Use dividers for small items like socks, underwear, or jewellery to keep them neat.

• Lighting: If your closet is dark, add LED strip lights or motion-sensor lights to brighten it up. A well-lit wardrobe makes organising easier and more enjoyable.

The Emotional Impact of an Organised Closet

Finally, let’s not overlook the emotional side of organising your wardrobe. A tidy closet can reduce stress, boost your confidence, and make you feel more in control of your life. It’s not just about aesthetics—it’s about creating a space that supports your well-being.

Transforming your closet doesn’t have to be a monumental task. By breaking it into these manageable steps, you can create a wardrobe that’s functional, beautiful, and clutter-free. Whether it’s through regular maintenance or adopting mindful shopping habits, you’ll soon find that an organised closet makes every day just a little bit easier.

Take the first step today and start clearing out your wardrobe—you won’t regret it!