A free printable with the simplest method to guide your closet cleanout, create more wardrobe space, and help you feel inspired to wear the clothes you love every day.
Okay, full disclosure: I should be showing you both of our master bedroom closets completely finished and stocked with a thoughtfully organized wardrobe today. Instead, I’m sharing the reality of a work-in-progress—and a very practical, no-fuss approach to clearing out your closet.
Robert’s side is finished and fully hung; mine is still a chaotic mix of sizes, sentimental pieces, and a stubborn pile of things I’m “saving just in case.”
When I posted an update last week, his closet looked like this after our quick IKEA Billy hack:
And after a few finishing touches, this is what his closet looks like now. (Excuse the fuzzy phone photo.)
My side, meanwhile, still looks like this:
Part of the delay? We ran out of hangers. But mostly it’s because I needed a clearer decision process than the vague “Does this spark joy?” mantra. After a few seasons of being very fit, pregnancy, and postpartum shifts, my relationship with my wardrobe has changed. Sizes, style preferences, and lifestyle needs have all evolved, and I’ve found myself holding onto items that are in decent condition—or keeping things “just in case” that never actually get worn.
So I created a simple closet cleanout cheat sheet to speed up decisions and help me create a wardrobe I’ll actually reach for. It breaks the process into quick, logical steps so you can sort through everything without getting overwhelmed.
Yes, I’ll admit it—my Type A tendencies are showing. But structured systems work. The cheat sheet helps you answer the right questions fast: Does it fit? Have I worn it in the last year? Does it still match my current style? Is it comfortable and flattering? Keeping these practical prompts makes letting go easier and keeps sentiment from hijacking your closet.
Since following the steps, my closet is beginning to feel lighter and more intentional. I’m rediscovering favorite pieces and getting rid of things that were just taking up space. The result is a more functional wardrobe and less daily decision fatigue.
If you’d like the cheat sheet, it’s available in my printable library. It’s free to download when you sign up, and subscribers can access the entire library with the password included at the bottom of every email.
The cleanout process isn’t always tidy. There are piles, half-decided stacks, and occasional wardrobe frustration. Here’s what my floor and options often look like mid-sort:
It’s messy at times, but it’s worth it. I promise the closets will be fully finished and styled soon—both sides, done. I’ll share the final reveal later this week.
Do you have a go-to method for wardrobe sorting? Does the “spark joy” idea work for you, or do you prefer a more practical checklist? For me, a blend of both—sentiment balanced with clear, useful criteria—has been the most effective way to clear clutter and keep what I truly wear.
