Declutter and Organize: Transform Your Primary Closet

Your primary closet should be a functional, organized space that makes getting dressed each day a breeze. But for many people, it becomes a catch-all for items that don’t belong—leading to clutter and frustration. If you’re ready to declutter your primary closet, this guide will help you reclaim your space with intention and ease.

While a closet should ideally house only clothing, shoes, and accessories, it often becomes storage for holiday decorations, paperwork, or even workout gear. Let’s look at what doesn’t belong in your closet—and smart solutions if you’re limited on space.

1. Old, Unworn, or Outdated Clothing

If you haven’t worn something in over a year, it doesn’t deserve prime real estate. Items that don’t fit, are damaged, or no longer reflect your current style should be donated, sold, or repurposed.

Pro tip: When you declutter your primary closet, be honest with yourself about what you truly wear.

2. Bulky Bedding and Linens

Extra comforters, pillows, and sheets take up valuable space. Store them in a linen closet or under-bed bins.

Exception: If closet space is your only option, use vacuum-sealed bags on a high shelf.

3. Luggage and Travel Bags

Large suitcases and duffels don’t belong in your everyday closet. Store them in the garage, attic, or a guest closet.

Feng Shui tip: Avoid keeping luggage in your bedroom—it can symbolize movement and unfinished business.

4. Sentimental Items and Keepsakes

Photos, heirlooms, and childhood mementos should be stored elsewhere. These emotional items deserve a dedicated space—not your daily wardrobe area.

5. Holiday Décor

Keep seasonal decorations in labeled bins in the attic or storage closet—not where you keep your favorite jeans.

6. Workout Equipment

Yoga mats, dumbbells, and resistance bands add bulk and visual clutter. Create a mini home gym setup or store neatly in baskets with labels.

7. Office Supplies and Paperwork

Paper clutter kills closet peace. If your closet doubles as a work zone, use stackable bins or labeled boxes to keep everything separated.

8. Toys and Kid Clutter

Your closet shouldn’t store toys or kid gear unless absolutely necessary. Keep your closet sacred—it’s your space!

9. Pantry Items and Kitchen Supplies

Food and closet don’t mix. If storage is tight, use sealed containers and rotate stock frequently to avoid smells seeping into clothing.

Maximize Space After You Declutter Your Primary Closet

If your home lacks storage, it’s okay to make your closet multifunctional—as long as it stays tidy. Here’s how to manage that:

• Use Vertical Space: Add shelves or hanging organizers to reach the ceiling.

• Utilize the Back of the Door: Hang shoes, scarves, or accessories with an over-the-door system.

• Invest in Storage Bins: Clear, labeled bins make even non-clothing items feel intentional.

• Rotate Seasonally: Use vacuum-sealed bags for off-season items and store them up high.

• Edit Often: Small closets require regular decluttering to stay organized.

Your primary closet should be a place of ease—not stress. By learning how to declutter your primary closet and implement smart storage, you create a space that supports your daily life and reflects your personal style.

Embrace these small shifts—you deserve a closet that feels like calm, not chaos.

Nathalie XOXO