How to Declutter a Closet in One Afternoon

A closet makes a perfect first decluttering project: it is a contained space and the payoff shows up every morning. Plan on three to four hours.

Before you begin

Gather three bags or boxes labeled Donate, Trash or recycle and Relocate. Add a laundry basket for items that need washing or repair. Put on music, and set a time limit.

The steps

1. Take everything out. Empty the whole closet onto the bed. Seeing it all at once shows you what you have, including duplicates.
2. Wipe it down. Dust the shelves and rod, and vacuum the floor while the space is empty.
3. Sort by category. Group tops, bottoms, dresses, outerwear, shoes and accessories.
4. Decide, one item at a time. Ask whether it fits, whether it is in good condition and whether you have worn it in the past year. Be honest about items kept for a version of life that has not shown up.
5. Handle the maybes. Put uncertain items in a box with a date. If you do not reach for them in a few months, let them go.
6. Remove the bags right away. Put the donation bag in the car and take the trash out so second-guessing cannot creep in.

Put it back with a plan

• Hang items by category and then by color so you can see options at a glance.
• Use matching hangers to create a calmer look and save space.
• Keep your most-worn items at eye level, and store off-season clothes higher up or in under-bed boxes.
• Fold knits instead of hanging them, since hangers can stretch the shoulders.
• Add shelf dividers, hooks or baskets for bags, belts and scarves.

Keep it up

Adopt a simple rule: when a new item comes in, one goes out. Once a season, take ten minutes to pull anything you did not wear.