Clearing out your wardrobe for the first time
Short answer: A thorough wardrobe clear out gives you space, an overview and often a calmer morning. It takes a plan, so you do not end up putting everything straight back again.
Set aside time and take everything out
A clear out works best when you have a couple of uninterrupted hours. Take all the clothes out of the wardrobe and lay them on the bed. It sounds drastic, but it is the only way to see how much you actually own. Many people are surprised by how many identical T-shirts or black trousers are hiding at the back of the shelves. Wipe down the shelves while the wardrobe is empty, since you rarely get the chance otherwise.
Sort into four piles
Make four piles. Keep, give away, repair and discard. Keep what you have worn in the last year and what fits. Give away what is in good condition but not worn. Repair what is missing a button or has a loose seam, but only if you will actually do it within a month. Discard what is worn out. Be honest, but do not rush decisions about clothes you are unsure of, because regret is a poor start to a tidy wardrobe.
The undecided pile
Clothes you cannot decide about can go in a box with a date on it. If the box is untouched after six months, you can give the contents away without opening it. That takes pressure off the clear out itself and gives you time to notice whether you miss anything. Many people find they have forgotten what was in the box.
Arrange by use
When you put clothes back, place what you wear most at eye level. Hang dresses, shirts and trousers, and fold knitwear and T-shirts. Hoodie dresses and heavy jumpers are best folded, so the shoulders do not stretch. Take a look at bamboo hoodie dresses as an example of pieces that should lie flat. Sort by colour or type if you like, so you can find things quickly in the morning.
Find the gaps
After the clear out it often becomes clear what is missing. Perhaps you have many tops but few trousers, or lots of smart pieces but nothing for everyday wear. Write a short list and buy only what is on it. Browse bamboo clothing for women if you want to add soft basics. That way the wardrobe fills up with what you actually need rather than more of the same.
Keep it tidy
One simple rule helps. When you buy something new, take something old out. Do a smaller clear out at each change of season, when you swap between summer and winter clothes. Brands such as Egtved are one example of labels with classic basics that can be worn for years, which makes it easier to keep a small wardrobe that works.
Frequently asked questions
How often should I clear out my wardrobe
A thorough clear out once a year and a small one at each change of season is enough for most people.
What do I do with clothes I am unsure about
Put them in a dated box. If it is untouched after six months, give the clothes away.
Should knitwear hang or be folded
Folded. On a hanger, knitwear can stretch at the shoulders.
You can find the full range at Bamboo-Clothing.com.
