As a part of his "New Year, New You" plan, Michal Gregus, Founder and Managing Director of L.A. based TheTaskPros.com, which provides organizational services and lifestyle management, has come up with some fantastic tips for easily and efficiently cleaning out and organizing your clothes closet. Win a one-hour consultation with Michal and he'll help you organize your life!
Michal is a firm believer that your state of mind is directly related to the state of your living space. So think of your closet makeover as a life makeover as well. Cleaning it out doesn't have to take a lot of time or cost a lot of money. In fact, it can actually be a way to earn a few bucks. Here is Michal's three-step system:
Step 1 - Take everything out of the closet.
Step 2 - Create three piles:
1) Clothes That Stay
This pile should contain only clothes that you have worn in the past 8-10 months; clothes you feel and look good in and that fit you well.
2) Clothes to Sell or Consign
You can take these clothes to resale boutiques and consignment shops; eBay them or advertise on Craigslist, or have a yard sale.
3) Clothes to Donate
If you decide that you'd rather put a smile on someone else's face by helping those in need, donate the clothes to Goodwill, The Salvation Army or a local homeless shelter.
Step 3 - Organize what's staying.
Once everything is sorted, attack the "clothes to stay pile," but be very strategic. For seasonal clothes, Michal recommends clear plastic containers with lids (easily purchased at the Container Store or online at Organize.com).
For what you want to keep in the closet, huggable hangers are a great space saver. So are over-the-door shoe hangers and flexible shoe containers made of canvas or plastic that hang from a closet rod. There are also specialty hangers for ties, purses and belts that eliminate overburdened hooks and allow for a cleaner look.
You can subscribe to Michal Gregus' periodic newsletter, "Tips for Better Living," on his website TheTaskPros.com.
Enter to win a one-hour consultation with Michal Gregus, in which he'll teach you how to make everyday life more efficient by using great organizing tips and ideas tailor-made for your busy life!