Hello Friends! This week has been all about decluttering and organizing. Isn’t it amazing how quickly we accumulate things? I recently tackled all of the bedroom closets in our home and I must say, while it took a few hours to do, the results were well worth it.

Today I want to share my closet decluttering tips with you. This time of year is a great time to free up some space in your closet with a closet clean out.

Examine Everything

The best way to fully organize a closet is to take out all of the contents out of it and examine everything. Depending on the size of the closet, this task can take a little while, but it is definitely worth it. Plan to make a decision with each and every item and decide whether the item is worthy of precious closet space.

This can be a daunting task but it is worth it. Let me just share with you the pile of mess that I started with.

As you look at each item, ask if it is something we still need and use? Is it in usable condition or does it need something fixed to be worn or used. If it needs action, put it somewhere to be handled. Try not to put it back in the closet or else it is likely to stay there in its current state.

Declutter and Donate

While deciding on each item, consider if you can live without it. We tend to hang on to things longer than needed and it just takes up more space. Put donatable items in a large trash bag so that it is easy to take to the donation center. Use a second trash bag for all of those items that are not reusable (games with parts missing, broken items, useless paper, and notes). Label each bag and donate old books to the local library or senior center.

For this job, I like using Glad® Advanced Protection Trash Bags whenever we have a big clean up. They really are my go-to trash bag for every need, whatever the job is.

I found mine at a great price at Walmart and usually stock up while I am there.

Make Sections

Make sections or zones in the closet for like items. Once you have decided to keep something, determine the best way to store it. I like to consider the amount of space that is required and store it in the least space-taking way possible. Place the items in a manner that you are likely to use them. You may want to consider sorting by color and style for easy access. It also makes the closet feel more decoratively organized.

The Tools

Starting a closet clean out can be easy if you have the right tools. Here are my suggested tools for the project:

Mirror – to see how things fit and look while wearing

Attitude – be fierce when approaching the decluttering task, you will be glad you did

Glad® Advanced Protection Trash Bags – Tackle the heaviest loads with RipGuard™ technology to prevent rips and tears.

I cannot stress enough how dependable the Glad® ForceFlex Plus™ Advanced Protection bags were. It is truly the strongest bag I have ever seen and the only bag I will use in my trash compactor. Their LeakGuard® Technology guards against leaks with two-layer protection designed to trap liquids in the bag. They also have a reinforced bottom and 7-Day Odor Control with Febreze® that is guaranteed to neutralize food odors.

Glad® Torture Test: Discover the toughness of every bag You can discover the toughness of Glad® ForceFlex protection for yourself here. You seriously have to see this video to appreciate it. If you have traveled by plane recently, you will appreciate it even more. I know I did!

Other Tips

Make a note in your journal to revisit the closet in 6 months. It will help make things easier the next time you organize your closet. Kids outgrow clothing and toys so fast that it is really necessary to declutter on a regular basis.

When is the last time you decluttered your closet?