12 Items to Purge from Your Closet for a Clutter-Free Wardrobe

No matter how big they are, closets never seem to have enough storage space. Whether yours is overflowing with clothes you never wear, or packed with miscellaneous items, a quick refresh can help streamline your closet storage and make room for the things you actually wear. Start by clearing out these 12 items, including out-of-season attire and space-consuming accessories. Once they're out of the closet, you can either store them elsewhere (perhaps in the basement or an entryway closet) or get rid of them altogether. Spend just a few minutes relocating or tossing these items, and your closet will feel more spacious and organized. (Trust us, you won't miss them.)

Clunky hangers can occupy valuable closet space, so don't hold on to more than you need. Designate a hanger for all of the items you like to hang, then ditch the rest. You might also consider replacing bulky plastic hangers with a more space-saving design like slimline hangers. If you buy something new, make it a rule to get rid of one item before hanging the new one.

Don't Miss

Coat Closet Organization Ideas to Make Running Out the Door Easy

16 Clever Boot Storage Ideas to Streamline Your Clutter

Warm, waterproof boots are essential when winter weather hits, but in July, your bulky boots are taking up precious storage space. The same is true for your sundresses and strappy sandals in December. Stash out-of-season items in the attic, basement, spare room, or under your bed—anywhere but in the closet—and switch out items as the weather changes.

By now, you probably know your own style, whether it's all black, skirts over pants, or a love for sparkles. Get rid of items that don't match your style. Maintaining a distinct style can make it easier to get ready in the morning since everything you own already goes together.

Coat closets exist for a reason. House bulky parkas, umbrellas, and outdoor accessories like hats and scarves in an entryway or in an extra closet outside the bedroom. This will not only free up space in your clothes closet but also keep dirt, salt, water, and other debris out of your sleep space.

Whether it was a gift or a clearance-rack steal, we all have those items we never wear. Purge any clothing item that's too big, too small, stained, or threadbare. As a general rule of thumb, if you haven't worn an item in a year, it's time to let it go.

Instead of storing luggage in your closet, stash it under your bed, in the basement, or in the attic. Before packing it away, take advantage of the empty space inside and use the suitcase to store out-of-season items or extra linens.

Clear hats, scarves, and mittens out of your closet and store them by the door. A small basket or the drawer of an entryway console table works well for storing outdoor accessories in a convenient spot, so you can bundle up right before heading out the door.

Pretty jewelry can double as art if displayed correctly. Keep your necklaces on a tree and rings in a decorative dish, but keep them out of your closet. Closet space is typically tight, so you might knock valuables over when pulling out a dress or grabbing a bin from the top shelf. Storing jewelry on a vanity is a much safer (and more accessible) option for small accessories.

You might be holding on to your wedding dress for the next generation or for sentimental reasons, but it's best to store it somewhere other than your closet. Most gowns require special storage and take up a lot of space. Wrap the dress in a garment bag and store it away from light in a hall closet or under the bed.

Keep any animal toys or beds out of the closet. And if you have a walk-in closet, keep your furry friends out too. This helps protect your clothing from pet hair, odors, and potential damage. Dog hair and black pants do not mix, nor do a cat's claws and leather boots.

Keeping food items or gifts like fancy chocolates in your closet invites pesky problems. Moths, mice, and other critters can be lured by the scent of food and cause damage to your wardrobe. Always store food items in the kitchen, even if the package looks tightly sealed.

Since your clothes closet is probably close to your bed, it can be tempting to store extra bedding there. But pillows, comforters, and sheets are bulky and will take up a lot of space, crowding out the things that should be there. Move extra bedding to the linen closet. If you don't have a linen closet, consider storing extra bedding in lidded storage bins that fit under your bed.