Wardrobes have a sneaky way of becoming cluttered, leaving you with less space and more stress. If your wardrobe feels overwhelming, it’s time to tackle it head-on. Let’s make sure you end up with a wardrobe that feels light, functional, and full of pieces you love — without the unnecessary clutter.
(This guide is packed with insights Vicky shared when featured in Good Housekeeping — helping readers create a beautifully organised, clutter-free wardrobe. To read the full article head over to Good House Keeping)
Step 1: Schedule Your Declutter Session
Decluttering a wardrobe, depending on its size can feel overwhelming, so schedule a time and stick to it. Whether you tackle it in one go or break it into smaller sessions, having it planned keeps you on track. Ready to begin?
How to Declutter Your Wardrobe
1. Plastic Coat Hangers
Those free plastic hangers from shops? They’re doing your clothes no favours. They’re bulky, flimsy, and can distort your clothes over time. Swap them for slim, velvet hangers — they save space and keep everything neat. Wooden hangers are ideal for heavier items like coats and suits.
2. Shoe Boxes
Shoe boxes might seem useful, but they take up so much room. Unless you’re storing a luxury pair long-term, it’s time to let go. Instead, use clear plastic containers or a space-saving shoe rack to keep your shoes accessible and visible.
3. Old Wardrobe Fresheners
If your wardrobe still has old, stale fresheners hanging around, ditch them. They lose their scent over time and can end up adding an unpleasant smell. Replace them with lavender sachets or cedar balls — they’re natural and smell lovely.
4. Clothes You Haven’t Worn in a Year
If you haven’t worn it in the last 12 months, ask yourself: Would I buy this again today? If the answer’s no, it’s time to let it go. Donating, selling, or recycling gives those clothes a new life — and you’ll feel lighter without them.
5. Odd Socks
Let’s be honest — that missing sock probably isn’t coming back. Unless you’re embracing the quirky, mismatched look, single socks have no place in your drawer. Repurpose them as dust mitts, or say goodbye.
6. Old Cedar Balls
Cedar balls are great for keeping moths away, but they lose their potency over time. Give them a light sand to revive the scent — or replace them with new ones.
7. Shoes That Hurt
We’ve all done it — kept gorgeous shoes that leave us hobbling. Truth is, if they hurt, they’re never getting worn. Free up space for shoes that you actually love to wear.
8. Sentimental Clothes
It’s tough to let go of items with memories attached. Keep a few truly meaningful pieces, but be realistic. A photo of an item can hold the same memory — without the clutter.
9. Unwanted Gifts
If someone bought you clothes that aren’t your style or don’t fit, it’s okay to let them go. It’s your wardrobe, and it should work for you. Donate, sell, or re-gift to someone who’ll actually use them.
10. Unused Storage Solutions
Bought storage that doesn’t quite work? It’s just taking up space. Declutter first, then find storage that fits the space and your needs perfectly.
How to Organise Your Wardrobe After Decluttering
Once the excess is gone, it’s time to make your wardrobe work smarter. Use these tips for a streamlined, easy-to-maintain setup:
- Work by Category — tackle clothes by type (coats, tops, trousers) rather than by wardrobe section. It’s easier to see duplicates and unnecessary items.
- Make It Visible — If you can’t see it, you won’t wear it. Arrange clothes in colour order, hang items facing the same way, and consider open shoe racks.
- Seasonal Rotation — Store summer clothes away during winter and vice versa. Vacuum storage bags save heaps of space.
- Create a ‘Maybe’ Box — Not sure about an item? Pop it in a box and revisit it in 3 months. If you didn’t miss it, you know what to do.
Ready to take back control of your wardrobe? Clearing out the unnecessary leaves you with a space that feels fresh, functional, and full of pieces you love. By following these tips, you can create a more organised, stress-free, and happier wardrobe. If you feel you could do with our help to declutter your wardrobe and reduce your stress levels, get in touch with Vickys’ team below.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How do I start decluttering my wardrobe?
Start small — one section at a time. Pull everything out, assess each item, and ask yourself if you truly need or love it. Keep what you wear regularly and what makes you feel good.
What should I do with clothes I no longer want?
Donate to charity, sell on platforms like Vinted, or recycle damaged items through local textile recycling schemes.
How often should I declutter my wardrobe?
Every six months is a good rule of thumb — or at least once a year. The change of seasons is a perfect prompt.
What if I regret getting rid of something?
It’s rare to miss an item you haven’t worn in a year. Trust yourself. The space and clarity you gain are worth it!
