Time to clear out your wardrobe!

Sometimes, it’s just got to be done – particularly when the sun comes out, flooding our homes with light, winter coats are put away and I don't wear socks anymore; then it is certainly time for me to have a clear out.

But – so the ‘cleaning-out-and-tidying-up’ operation doesn’t end in hopeless chaos, tears and frustration – you need a plan! Yes, I speak from experience!

Where should you start when having a clear out?

First, consider which rooms you’re going to tackle and why! For example:

Tidy up and clear out the junk room/study/guest room, so you have more space to create a nice study.

Clear out the wardrobe to make more space, put winter clothes away and have your summer outfits to hand.

These are clear goals. Clear goals are necessary!

Don’t just get going otherwise you won’t have enough time and will have to interrupt the whole process, which will end in a week-long mess.

How do I organise a clear out?

Think about a place in your room where you have enough space for 3 boxes.

Label each of the three boxes with: 1. Give away, 2. Sell, 3. Throw away.

Toss

Broken clothes, broken toys – everything that’s had its day goes into the box to be thrown away and should be disposed of accordingly: bulky waste, old textiles, household waste, etc.

Give

Nieces, nephews and your neighbour’s children are pleased with toys. And sisters are happy with the clothes we no longer want. The Red Cross and other charities are always happy to receive clothes, bedding and crockery. Look around and see if you can help a family or two out.

Sell

Give the things you no longer want a second life – just put them online for someone else to enjoy.

There are plenty of online platforms that allow you to sell your items, and it’s supe easy – I like to use Vinted for clothes.

Car boot sales are always a good option for furniture and cookbooks too – preferably with your friends, champagne, sandwiches and some sunshine! A great Sunday morning activity with the girls.

Rule of thumb: Anything I didn’t read during the year, I won’t read during the next, so get rid otherwise magazines and newspaper cuttings pile up in the house. I won’t ever wear any of the clothes again that I haven’t worn in the last two years, so get rid of them. I’m talking about everyday clothes, skiing clothes – I haven’t worn those for 4 years – and evening dresses – I don’t think I’ve worn those for 4 years either.

In case you didn't yet get started on your spring cleaning, don't worry. We have your back! Check ut our article on spring cleaning.

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