Clearing out the wardrobe without throwing too much away

Short answer: Put the doubtful items in a box for three months rather than deciding on the spot. If you have not missed them, they can move on.

Three piles rather than two

Most people make a keep pile and a discard pile and get stuck on the doubtful items. A third pile solves it: those go into a box with a date on it, and the decision is postponed three months.

How to sort quickly

Take everything out, take one garment at a time and ask whether you have worn it within a year. Yes means back, no means box. Doubt also means box. See bamboo clothing for women.

After three months

Open the box. Anything you have not missed can be passed on. You do not need to look at it again. See bamboo clothing for men and bamboo underwear for men.

Frequently asked questions

How often should you clear out

Twice a year at the seasonal change is enough for most people.

What about clothes with memories attached

Put them somewhere other than the everyday wardrobe. They do not have to be thrown away.

What do you do with what goes

Take textiles to collection. Even worn clothing can go into recycling.