Fall Closet Reset: Declutter and Deep Clean for the Season Ahead

As the leaves change and the air turns crisp, it’s the perfect time to refresh your wardrobe and clean out your closet. A fall closet reset not only prepares you for the colder months but also sets a positive tone for the rest of the year. It will help clear your mind as summer comes to a close and you prepare for the return to routine. Here are some tips on how to effectively declutter and deep clean your closet.

Set Aside Time

Choose a day and put it on the calendar. Set your alarm on a Saturday, enjoy your coffee, and get started early. Take this appointment seriously and give yourself plenty of time to get the job done.

Gather Supplies

Get boxes or bags for donations, cleaning supplies (like dusters, cloths, and sprays), and a notepad for jotting down any necessary replacements. Having all the necessary items nearby as you get started makes you less likely to get distracted by not having what you need. Bring a trash can into the room with you to make throwing items like broken hangers, dry cleaning bags, worn-out clothes, etc. easier.

Declutter Your Closet

Start by taking everything out of your closet. Yes, everything. This step may seem daunting, but it’s the best way to deep clean and sort. This also allows you to see the space you have and evaluate each item. As you are taking items out of your closet, do the first run of sorting - items to keep, donate, hand down, or throw away. Consider implementing the “one-year rule” - if you haven’t worn it in over a year, it may be time to let it go.

Deep Clean Your Closet

Dust all the shelves in your closet thoroughly. Wipe down the wardrobe rod and use a magic eraser if it is marked by hangers. Vacuum the floor of the closet thoroughly, including the corners and the baseboards. Use a spray cleaner to wipe down the walls, floors, and baseboards.

Organize Your Keepers

As you begin putting clothes back in your closet, organize them by category. Keep similar items together (tank tops, t-shirts, blouses, long-sleeves, pants, dresses, etc.). Within each category, match by color for a visually appealing look. Ensure all hanging items are facing the same direction; this small step makes a big difference in how your closet feels and looks.

Use your space efficiently

Assess whether you have more hanging, shelf, or empty space. If you have lots of hanging space but not many shelves, consider adding some hanging shelves. If you have lots of shelves but are lacking in hanging space, consider folding items onto shelves that you would normally hang (sweaters, jeans, etc.). Think through how your closet functioned before and if there are ways you can make it more efficient (for example, were there some items that you could never locate, or did you have to move items to reach other items?).

Evaluate What’s Missing

As you organize, note any items you might need for the upcoming season, like a warm coat or new boots. Decide if there are a few things you could add to your wardrobe to give your clothes a new life (for example, a new pair of in-style jeans, a sweater, a versatile top). Take note of what items you wear the most frequently and decide if they need to be replaced or refreshed. Assess the state of your socks and underwear and replace worn-out items.

Maintain Your Closet

One of the easiest ways to keep your closet feeling fresh is to put things back where you got them. The same hanger, the same shelf, the same drawer. Take time to hang and fold your clothes with care; the few extra minutes folding that load of laundry will make your space feel so much better. As you shop at times during the season, consider a one-in, one-out rule - never purchase more hangers than you started with.

As you embark on your fall closet reset, remember that a clean and organized space not only enhances your wardrobe but also your mindset. A fresh start can inspire new looks and a renewed appreciation for your clothing collection. And seeing your closet all clean and organized will just make you smile. A great start to your fall season!

By Jolene Nannette

Home by Jolene

Jolene Nannette is a specialist in home efficiency, tackling to-do lists and calming the chaos through home organization. www.homebyjolene.com