I recently read an article in Psychology Today, “Shed, Shift, and Begin Again: The Power of Letting Go,” in which the author shared, “Letting go is one of life’s hardest practices—but also one of the most healing.”
She is spot on. So often, I hear from women that their closets feel full and overwhelming. When trying different closet cleanout tips, there’s a reason your closet still feels overwhelming… even if you’ve tried to clean it out before. This isn’t about a lack of discipline or needing more time. It’s about having a system in place that works for you. I sat down with Thrive Podcast host Nancy Medoff, and I shared that the thought of spending a whole day and pulling everything out of my closet to go through it gives me anxiety. I have to chunk the task down into doable, bite-sized pieces.
We talked about the tactical tools I shared and the framework I use with clients. Here are three closet cleanout tips you can start using immediately.
1. The Reverse Hanger Trick: Your Closet You the Truth
When you wear something, turn the hanger backward when you put it back. The idea is that after 30 to 60 days, you will be able to see very clearly what you’re wearing and what you’re not. You don’t have to guess, you know… It’s data.
You may not like what you see, but it makes it harder to say, “I might wear this _____.” It’s clear, you’re not wearing it.
Most of my clients get stuck deciding to let go; I give them permission to let go and clarity.
Clarity around who they are and where they’re going. Doing this exercise will give you clarity, too.
2. The 2-Minute (5-Minute or 10-Minute) Momentum Method: No Need to Wait for a Free Saturday
I know, the idea of cleaning out your closet likely feels overwhelming, and realistically, it’s way, way, down on the to-do list. And, you’re not alone.
I hear from friends, colleagues, and clients, “I don’t have time” or “It’s too big a project.”
This is why I love simplifying it.
Set a timer for:
- 2 minutes, 5 minutes, or 10 minutes
Then, pick ONE category:
- jeans
- tops (short sleeve, long sleeve, by color, etc…)
- jackets
- pants
- skirts
- shoes
Do this for 5 or 7 days. That’s it. Look at your progress and give yourself a high five.
If you do this Monday through Friday for just five minutes, imagine letting go of 3 pieces each day, you’ll make more progress than waiting for a perfect day that never comes.
You don’t have to wait for a whole free day; you can start with just 2 minutes.
You need two minutes and a decision.
You need two minutes and a decision.
3. The Exit Strategy System: Make Decisions Easier
You don’t have to give everything away. Now that you’re ready to make a decision, you have several choices to make. It’s simple, really. Grab three bags and label them:
- Donate
- Tailor
- Toss
Nothing fancy. Grocery, trash, or shopping bags work perfectly.
As you go through your pieces during your 2-minute, 5-minute, or 10-minute window, every item has a place to go.
Many get stuck because they feel like they are wasting money by giving the items away. So I encourage friends, colleagues, and clients to decide in advance. Where are you donating?
Whether it’s a local women’s shelter or a service like ThredUp or The RealReal, making that decision ahead of time removes hesitation in the moment. There is a woman out there who can fit into your pieces perfectly, and the confidence you once had when you wore those pieces will transfer to her.
When you have clarity, it helps create momentum.
Why This Matters More Than You Think
I know cleaning out your closet may sound simple or unimportant, but it’s not just about that. It’s also about clearing out what no longer serves you so you can create space for what’s next. To create space, ask yourself: how do you want to show up in this next phase of your life? What does that look like?
When your wardrobe aligns with your life, your goals, and your brand:
- You will move differently.
- You will show up with more confidence.
- People will respond to you differently.
That’s exactly what I talk about in my book, The Style Advantage: I Say What HR Can’t.
Today more than ever, your style can be a strategic advantage. You can check out my blogs: “Cleaning Out Your Closet Can Be Like Magic” or from February this year, “Permission to Let Go: Declutter Your Closet Without Regret and Step into Your Best Self.”
Want Help Getting Started?
If you’re looking for more closet cleanout tips:
✔️ Join my Free 30-Day Closet Cleanout Challenge
✔️ Or dive into my 5-Day Cleanout Course ($27) for step-by-step guidance
✔️ Or dive into my 5-Day Cleanout Course ($27) for step-by-step guidance
And be sure to listen to my full conversation on the Thrive Podcast with Nancy Medoff.