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The Ultimate Closet Clean-Out Guide: How to Declutter and Donate with Purpose

February 19, 2025

Spring is the season of renewal, making it the perfect time to refresh your space, declutter your home, and make a meaningful impact in your community. Whether you’re tackling your overflowing closet or sorting through household items, this guide will help you streamline the process and make donating easy.

Step 1: Set a Goal for Your Clean-Out

Before you start pulling everything out of your closet, take a moment to define your goals. Are you looking to create more space, simplify your wardrobe, or donate items to a good cause? Setting a goal will keep you focused and make the process more rewarding.

Questions to Ask Yourself:

✔️ What do I hope to achieve with this clean-out?
✔️ Do I want to create a capsule wardrobe or just reduce clutter?
✔️ How do I want to organize my remaining items?

Step 2: Create a Sorting System

To keep things organized, use the “Keep, Donate, Recycle” method.

Keep: Items you wear regularly and love.
Donate: Gently used clothing, shoes, and accessories that no longer fit your style but can benefit someone else.
Recycle: Worn-out, stained, or torn items that are no longer wearable.

Pro Tip: If you haven’t worn something in over a year, it’s time to let it go!

Step 3: The 12-Month Rule – Does It Still Serve You?

A simple way to decide whether to keep an item is to ask: Have I worn or used this in the past 12 months?

If the answer is no, it’s likely time to donate it. Exceptions might include formalwear, seasonal clothing, or sentimental pieces—but be honest about what truly deserves space in your home.

Step 4: Organize What You Keep

Now that you’ve decluttered, it’s time to organize your “Keep” pile. Use storage solutions that make sense for your lifestyle:

Shelf dividers for sweaters
Velvet hangers for maximizing space
Clear storage bins for seasonal clothes
Drawer organizers for accessories

By keeping everything neatly arranged, your space will feel fresh and functional!

Step 5: Where to Donate Your Gently Used Items

Instead of throwing away items that are still in good condition, donate them to Goodwill of Central and Coastal Virginia. Your donations help provide job training and employment opportunities for individuals facing challenges to work.

Items Goodwill Accepts:

Clothing & shoes (all sizes & styles)
Accessories (hats, scarves, handbags)
Home goods & décor
Electronics & small appliances
Books, toys, and bikes
Furniture & household items

Find a Donation Center Near You: Locate Your Nearest Goodwill

Step 6: Enjoy Your Fresh, Clutter-Free Space

Once you’ve finished decluttering, take a step back and appreciate your organized closet! Not only will your home feel lighter, but you’ll also have made a positive impact on your community by donating to Goodwill.