If you're not careful, your closet can end up being a total clutter hotspot. And while your intention might be in the right place, your technique for downsizing your closet could be setting you back more than you know.
With so many hacks floating around, there's bound to be some decluttering tricks that just don't work. So, today, we'll take a closet-bound approach to the methods that aren't worth your time.
Now, some of these may have worked for you in the past, so that doesn't mean you need to get them out of your lifestyle for good. It's all about how you exercise each method, and the type of clutter you're dealing with. But this can be used as your basic guide to the rules that are working against your wardrobe.
1. The One-Year Rule
Professional organizer Laura Price tells me that a closet decluttering trick that doesn't work is the one-year rule. Essentially, it detects that if you haven't worn something in a year, you should get rid of it.
"In reality, this rule is far too rigid and doesn't account for how we live. If you've had a baby, had a stretch of working from home, or just haven't been invited to a fancy party for a while, this falls flat," she says.
"The clothes you need might have shifted, but that doesn't mean that the apparel you rely on now and then should be removed. Instead, it's better to ask if you love the item. Would you wear it again if the circumstances were right? If the answer is yes, and you're still being honest about the things you really don't want anymore, go ahead and keep it."
So, the next time you spot signs of closet clutter, use a technique like the KonMari method to properly free your wardrobe from the chaos.
2. Ruthless Instant Decluttering
Brittany de la Fuente, organization expert at the St. Louis Closet Co, tells me that another rule that doesn’t always work is forcing yourself to declutter everything in one session.
"This approach of ruthless decluttering often leads to burnout or rushed decisions. I usually recommend tackling closets in small categories instead, like shoes one day or sweaters another, so the process feels manageable."
If you're looking for a more guided technique, our list of things to throw out when decluttering your closet will give you an idea of which categories to survey first.
3. Day-By-Day Decluttering
Laura tells me that the day-by-day decluttering technique is another that doesn't actually work. This method suggests throwing out one item on day one, two on day two, and so on, until you reach your deadline. Be it anywhere from 10 to 30 days.
"Not only does this drag the whole process out far longer than it needs to, but it's a totally artificial and arbitrary approach, encouraging you to get rid of things to hit a target rather than because you do or don't want them," she notes.
"Instead, I recommend decluttering your clothes by taking an honest look at your wardrobe. Even if you love your closet, this gives you a chance to be truthful about things that don't fit, are uncomfortable, or just don't go with your style. These are the things that should go."
4. 'Buying Organizers First' Mindset
"People purchase storage solutions before they know what they’re keeping, which often leads to more clutter instead of less. This is one of the most common mistakes I see," says Diana Moll, founder of D's Decluttr.
Not only will this lead to your wardrobe holding on to clutter, but it will also result in you selecting incompatible organization systems that further add to the disarray of this zone.
"Ideally, it's best to purge first, organize second, and purchase wardrobe organizers last. Once you know what truly belongs in this space, it becomes much easier to create simple systems that keep your closet organized long term."
5. Backward Hanger Method
"The reverse hanger decluttering method sounds clever, but for many people, they rotate seasonal clothing, travel often, or wear the same few outfits on repeat, which means some pieces might not get turned around even though they’re still useful," says Diana.
"I recommend placing a simple donation bag or basket directly in your closet. As you get dressed or put laundry away, drop in anything that feels uncomfortable, no longer fits your lifestyle, or you simply skipped over again. Decluttering becomes an ongoing habit rather than a one-time test."
However, if you do choose to practice the reverse hanger method, the key is to set smaller time intervals to help you declutter your closet successfully. By sorting through your built-in closet on a seasonal basis or even by month, this could work in your favor.
Closet Organizers
Color: Cream
Once you've decluttered your closet, I recommend using an organizer like this to ensure your camisoles, innerwear, and delicates are neat.
Color: Mahogany
If you don't have the closet room for a pull-out rack for trousers, this space-saving hanger is a total game-changer.
Quantity: Set of 3
You can also use packing cubes to organize your home. And this set from Urban Outfitters comes in a colorful set that'll work just as well when you're folding clothes for travel.
Just like these faux pas when decluttering your closet, there are organization errors you could be making, too. For example, you shouldn't be organizing your closet by color.
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