GOLDEN VALLEY, Minn. — Everyone knows the top new year resolution is to get fit and lose weight. However, another – and more achievable reduction resolution involves ousting the extra weight in your wardrobe. Have you ever thought about putting your closet on a diet and getting rid of the things you no longer wear?
That’s right. If you can’t possibly part with carbs, try tossing a cardigan!
It’s no surprise January is known as Get Organized Month. The pros at Closets by Design are sharing some surprising stats about our closets as well as helpful tips to those of us in need of an organizational overhaul.
Did you know?
We only wear 25 percent of the clothes in our closets. The rest of our clothes just hang in our closets.
We spend a year of our lives looking for lost or misplaced stuff, according to the National Association of Professional Organizers.
80% of the clutter in our homes is a result of disorganization, not lack of space.
Getting rid of clutter would eliminate 40% of the housework in the average home, according to the National Soap and Detergent Association.
Closets by Design suggests these organizational ideas to slim down your bloat of blouses and handbags hidden behind the closet doors.
Out with the Old – As a famous ice queen once said, “Let it go!” If you haven’t worn a piece of clothing it in over a year, then you probably won’t wear it again. Having trouble saying sayonara to that sweatshirt? Try this trick: Place items into a bin marked with the date. Give yourself 6 or 12 months. Any items that remain in the bin can be donated or tossed.
One In, One Out – For every new article of clothing you bring into your closet, get rid of a similar item. If you are feeling energized, up the ratio: one in, two out.
Optimize Your Space – The little things can really add up to a big mess. There are storage solutions for small items such as belts, scarfs, jewelry, ties, socks, etc. Sliding belt racks and jewelry drawers, provide simple opportunities to stash loose items and keep a closet organized. Adjustable shelves, cubbies and baskets make it easy to sock away articles of clothing, rather than allowing them to pile up on the floor.
Out of Sight – Stand-alone hampers are often unsightly and take up valuable space. Consider installing a tilt-out hamper built to stash away laundry or keep dry cleaning items separated and safe from the rest of the wash.
To learn more about Closets by Design, call them at 1-800-By-Design or online at www.closetsbydesign.com
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