30 Minute Closet Edit

Even if you don't live in an area where temperatures vary seasonally, organization experts recommend "editing" your closet each season. With this handy six-step guide you can get it done in just about 30 minutes. 

STEP 1 - Get ready (2 minutes): Prepare a few separate trash bags, boxes or bins for sorting into four piles: things to store, things to donate, hand-me-down items, or items to sell or consign. Resist the  temptation to buy extra hangers or bins until after you complete the editing process. You may also need some cleaning supplies for dusting, wiping down and vacuuming. 

STEP 2 - Get going (4 minutes): Gather all the clothes from your closet and lay everything on your bed according to garment type: shirts/blouses, jackets, pants, dresses, etc. Pull organizers and bins, too, so the closet is entirely empty. 

STEP 3 - Get cleaning (3 minutes): Wipe the shelves, closet rod, walls and baseboards, then vacuum the floor. 

STEP 4 - Get thinking (2 minutes): Before you put anything back inside, put some thought into looking at the space to figure out ways you can make your closet work more efficiently. Do you struggle to locate and frequently use items? Would certain items be better hung up or rolled up than folded? Now is a great time to adjust the flow, if needed. 

STEP 5 - Get realistic (15 minutes): The first time you edit may take a little longer, but if you make it a seasonal habit this can go even faster. Working by pile, look at each item and decide if it goes back into the closet by asking yourself four questions: Does it fit? Have I worn it in the last 12 months? Will I repair it or alter it? Do I feel confident in it? Place storage items, donations and hand-me-downs in their respective containers as you go. 

STEP 6 - Get organizing (4 minutes): Organize your keep pile by garment type first, color second. A popular color organization tactic among retailers, designers and organizers is to follow the rainbow: red, orange, yellow, green, blue, indigo and violet (ROYGBIV, for short). 

This method can help keep you organized all year long. 

Sources: Real Simple, Huffington Post