Organizing your closet might seem like a daunting task, but with the right approach and detailed planning, you can transform this space into a haven of order and peace. Organization and tidying coach Daniela Acuña maintains that with the right steps, you'll not only have a functional closet, but you'll also feel more connected to your surroundings and ready to face your daily life.
Emptying your entire closet is the first step she suggests. “Take absolutely everything out. This step is essential to getting off to a good start. It’s not just about reorganizing, but about rediscovering your space. Emptying your closet will allow you to clearly see what you have and how you want to organize it. When everything is out, you’ll realize that organizing your closet is not just a challenge, but an opportunity to start fresh.”
Thoroughly clean the space ; this is the second step she advises. "Clean every corner, as there's likely accumulated dust. Take this opportunity not only to refresh your space but also to prepare it so it's in the best condition to receive your clothes. A clean closet is the first step toward a more functional and pleasant space."
Sort your clothes , that's the third suggestion. "Create categories, like with like, t-shirts with t-shirts, blouses with blouses, and so on. As you check the quantities, you can start eliminating items, but you don't need to do it at this stage. Just group them by category. This way you can get an idea of how many of each type of garment you have."
Get rid of the unnecessary —that's the fourth point. "Try to keep only the newest and most beloved items in each category. I know getting rid of things isn't easy, especially when there's an emotional attachment. However, clinging to what we don't use only creates physical and mental clutter. Choose what truly makes you feel good and aligns with your personal goals. Think about the relief you'll feel having a closet with only what you actually use."
"Plan how you're going to store your clothes ," the expert continues. "Planning is key when it comes to staying organized. Ask yourself: how can you make the most of the space? Take the time to measure and see how you could better organize every corner of your closet. You can use shelves, drawers, or hanging rods; the important thing is that everything has its place. Organizing your closet efficiently will save you time and make your daily life easier."
Using organizers and boxes is the expert's next tip. "Organizers and boxes can be great allies when it comes to keeping things tidy. Make sure you choose the ones that best suit your space. From clear boxes to drawer dividers, each organizational tool can help you find your things more easily and maintain order in the long run. Investing in good organizers is key when you decide to organize your closet intentionally."
The expert also advises organizing by category , grouping clothes by type, color, or season. "Having your clothes divided by category will make your closet more visually appealing and practical. If it's easier for you, start with something basic like separating work clothes from leisure clothes. Organizing your closet this way will allow you to find everything more quickly and efficiently."
Establishing a maintenance routine is important, Acuña points out, to prevent chaos from taking over your space again. Consider that it can be weekly or monthly, depending on your availability.
Personalize your closet , she suggests as point nine. "Make your closet reflect your personality. Maybe you want to add pretty boxes, colorful hangers, or personalized labels. It's not just about functionality, but also about feeling good in your space."
Evaluate and adjust as needed: “It’s normal for what worked at first to need some adjustments. Don’t be afraid to change what isn’t working or to reorganize if your lifestyle has changed. Organizing your closet isn’t a static process; it’s something that should adapt to you and your needs,” she concludes.
