Closet Detox: How to Declutter, Clean, and Organize Like a Pro

February 21, 2025/Cibele

Is your closet overflowing, but you still feel like you have nothing to wear? It’s time for a closet detox!

A cluttered closet can make your mornings stressful and leave you feeling overwhelmed. By decluttering, deep cleaning, and organizing your closet efficiently, you can transform it into a stress-free, functional space. Follow these steps to get started:

Step 1: The Decluttering Method

Before cleaning and organizing, it’s essential to sort through your clothing and accessories. Here’s how to make the process smooth and effective:

Sort Items Into Three Categories:

  • Keep: Items you love, wear often, and fit well.
  • Donate: Clothes in good condition that no longer suit your style or needs.
  • Toss: Damaged, stained, or worn-out items beyond repair.

Seasonal vs. Year-Round Essentials

  • Store out-of-season clothing in labeled bins or vacuum-sealed bags to free up space in your closet.
  • Keep versatile, all-season pieces easily accessible.

Ask Yourself These Questions When Decluttering:

  • Have I worn this in the last year?
  • Does it fit well and make me feel confident?
  • Would I buy this again today?
  • Does this item match my current lifestyle?

If the answer is “no,” it’s time to let it go!

Step 2: Deep Clean the Closet Space

Once decluttering is done, it’s time to refresh your closet:

Remove Dust and Hidden Allergens

  • Take everything out and wipe down shelves, drawers, and hanging rods.
  • Vacuum or sweep the closet floor, paying attention to corners where dust collects.

Cleaning Hacks for a Fresh Closet

  • Use a microfiber cloth and a mild cleaner to wipe down surfaces.
  • Line shelves with scented shelf liners for a lasting fresh scent.
  • Place a small bowl of baking soda or activated charcoal inside to absorb odors.

Step 3: Organize for Efficiency

Now that your closet is clean, it’s time to set up a system that keeps everything in place.

Space-Saving Folding Techniques

  • Use the KonMari fold for T-shirts and jeans to maximize space.
  • Hang delicate or structured items to prevent wrinkles.

Utilize Bins, Baskets, and Dividers

  • Store accessories like belts, scarves, and handbags in labeled bins.
  • Use drawer dividers for socks, underwear, and small items to prevent closet clutter.
  • Install a shoe rack or hanging organizer for easy access.

Labeling Hacks for Easy Access

  • Label storage bins by category (e.g., “Winter Wear,” “Work Clothes”).
  • Color-code hangers to differentiate types of clothing (casual, work, formal).

Bonus Tip: Maintain Your Closet Organization Long-Term

  • Set a reminder to do a quick closet check once a month.
  • Follow the one-in, one-out rule: if you buy a new clothing item, donate or remove an old one.
  • Keep a small donation bin in your closet for easy decluttering throughout the year.

Too busy for a closet refresh? Let Simplify Cleaning help you tackle those tricky spaces—so you can enjoy a cleaner, stress-free home! Contact us today!

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