15 Things You Need to Toss From Your closet Today

If you’re anything like me, the closet is one of those areas you’re glad outsiders will never see. It’s stuffed, unorganized, and basically a perfect picture of chaos. Why are those pants from high school in there? And is that a prom dress I see?

Believe me when I say there’s nothing better than a clean, organized closet. Need some help cleaning yours? Here are 15 things you can throw out today.

“Painting Clothes”

It’s smart to keep a set of clothes for the messy stuff—painting, gardening, you name it. But how many paint-splattered shirts and stained yoga pants do we really need?

If you’ve got a whole drawer dedicated to these ‘just in case’ outfits, it might be time to pare down. Realistically, you can only wear one messy outfit at a time, so choose a favorite or two for those dirty jobs and free up some space by letting the rest go.

Old Costumes

Remember that ketchup bottle costume from the office party years ago? If it’s just been gathering dust since then, it might be time to pass it on.

We often keep costumes thinking, “Maybe I’ll need this someday!” But let’s be honest, how often does that day come? Freeing up space can be a relief—plus, donating it might just make someone else’s next Halloween a hit!

Things You’re Holding on to Just Because You Spent $$$

Ever look at an expensive outfit in your closet and think, “I loved this once, but will I ever wear it again?” I get it. I still have my pricey college graduation dress, untouched since the ceremony.

Life changes—a lot. I’ve got kids now and that dress just isn’t practical. Holding on to it because of what I spent or the memories feels natural, but if it’s just sitting there, it’s time to let it go.

Makeup

Why is there makeup in your closet? If it snuck in there, it’s time to relocate it. Makeup and beauty products really belong in the bathroom or a vanity area, not tucked away with your clothes.

Unless you have an exceptionally spacious closet designed with storage for these items, they’re probably just taking up valuable space. Moving them to a more appropriate spot not only frees up your closet but also helps keep your beauty products organized and accessible where you actually use them.

Freebies

It’s weirdly tough to toss out those free T-shirts from marathons, fundraisers, or corporate events. But let’s be honest—how often do you wear them? If they’re just sitting in your drawer, it’s a good sign they’re ready to be recycled or donated.

Clearing out these freebies can surprisingly freshen up your wardrobe space, making room for clothes you actually choose and love to wear.

Trashy Hangers

Take a look at your hangers—do they make your closet look better or just add to the chaos? If it’s the latter, it might be time for an upgrade. Consider how many you really need and what type suits your wardrobe best.

Switching to uniform hangers like slim velvet ones or sturdy wooden types can not only protect your clothes better but also give your closet a neat, organized appearance.

Seasonal Wear

Let’s tackle that stash of seasonal clothing—from swimsuits to winter scarves that you only dig out for part of the year. It’s easy to let these collections grow because they’re out of sight for half the year. But here’s a tip: each time you bring out your seasonal items, take a moment to declutter.

If you didn’t wear it last season, chances are you won’t miss it next season. Keeping your seasonal wear curated ensures you’re only storing what you truly use and love.

Extra Shoes

Shoes can be tricky. They might not fit anymore, or maybe they just don’t match your current style. It’s worth taking a look and deciding if each pair still has a place in your life. If they’re just taking up space or collecting dust, maybe it’s time to let them go.

Free up your closet space for shoes that fit well and look great with your current style. Less clutter means less stress choosing the right pair for the day!

Dresses You’ll Never Wear Again

We all have that one dress, maybe a prom gown or a bridesmaid dress, lingering in the back of the closet. If you can’t see yourself wearing it again, why let it take up valuable space?

Consider donating it or even selling it on a consignment site. Not only will you clear some closet space, but you might also put a little extra cash in your pocket or give someone else the chance to enjoy that beautiful dress for their special occasion.

Pieces in Need of Fixing

Okay, let’s be real: If those dress pants needing a tailor’s touch are still sitting at the bottom of your closet after six months, chances are they aren’t getting out anytime soon. It’s easy to put off these little things, thinking we’ll get to them eventually. But if they’ve been collecting dust for ages, it might be a sign they’re not that essential. Why not free up some space?

Sentimental Pieces

We all have those sentimental items tucked away—like that pile of college tees that seemed too precious to toss. But if they’re just squashed in the back of your closet, maybe it’s time to pare down. Keeping one or two favorites is great, but if you can’t even remember what’s in that pile, it might not be as meaningful as you thought.

Clothes That Don’t Fit

Let’s be honest: hanging on to those jeans you swear you’ll fit into again might not be doing you any favors. It’s a bummer to see them each time you’re picking out what to wear, right?

How about we make a pact to only keep clothes that feel good on you today? Your wardrobe should celebrate where you are now, not where you used to be or hope to be. Give yourself the gift of comfort and confidence with clothes that fit just right.

Anything Hard to Maintain

Got any clothes that demand more time with the iron than you actually spend wearing them? If keeping up with high-maintenance garments isn’t your thing, it might be time to let them go. Imagine a closet where everything is grab-and-go, no ironing or special care needed.

You’ll not only streamline your morning routine but also reduce the clutter of unworn, high-upkeep outfits. Stick to the easy-care stuff – your sanity will thank you!

Gifts You Don’t Really Like

We’ve all been there—hanging onto gifts that just aren’t ‘us.’ Think about that hand-knit sweater from your grandmother-in-law that’s been hiding in your closet since it was gifted. It’s tough, but letting go of these things can actually relieve the guilt or obligation you might feel around keeping them.

Why not pass it on to someone who’d actually wear it? You’ll clear up some much-needed closet space and make room for pieces that truly excite you.

Impulse Buys

Remember that shirt you bought on vacation? Impulse buys often end up at the back of the closet, tags still on. If you haven’t worn it yet, chances are you won’t.

Clearing out these rarely-used items can make a big difference. Recognizing and curbing impulse shopping can keep your wardrobe streamlined and ensure that every piece is something you truly love and wear.