How to do a Cleanse

You've thought that now might be one of those times to try a cleanse. Then you think a little bit longer and go, "Nah, maybe next time." But there is a cleanse that doesn't require juicing, drinking exotic drinks, or gut-wrenching reactions: a closet cleanse.

No, that doesn't mean you hide in your closet while you avoid drinking the cleansing elixir, it means clearing out your closet to start fresh.

How to begin a closet cleanse:

Whether it's a change of season, a new season of your life, a new size or just a need for something different, all closet cleanses should begin the same way and flow through until you have just the right clothes, shoes, scarves and other accessories to make your life smooth and your day starts out put-together.

-  Review everything in the closet. Pull it out, look at it, try it on. Don’t return it to the closet if it doesn’t fit, you don’t like it, or you don’t wear it.

-  Bag up all the items you’ve decided you can’t or won’t wear for giveaway to charity. Don't go back into the bags for things when you have second thoughts. You know you won't wear it, and it merely takes up space. 

-  Organize the items that are going back into the closet in one of these ways:

1. By outfit (matching or coordinating tops and bottoms together with scarves, belts, sweaters or jackets)
2. By type (blouse, skirt, slacks, dress, etc.)
3. By season (warm weather, cold weather, transitional, layers)
4. By style (work, casual, dress, evening, event, etc.)

-  Try on every pair of shoes. If they don’t fit, out they go. 

-  For the ones you keep: check for wear, damage, worn heels, or gaps between the sole and the upper. If any shoes need repair, put them in a bag to take for repair on your next trip out the door. Don’t delay or they will languish in a bag in the bottom of your closet until the next closet cleanse.

-  Review your accessories: hats, scarves, gloves, belts. If you've arranged your clothing by the outfit, scarves and belts should already be with their coordinates. Otherwise, hang belts and scarves. Even gloves hang on clipped skirt hangers. Place hats above or on shelves protected from the weight of other articles.

-  Finally, tackle those purses and handbags. If handles are cracked or worn, plan to have them repaired, or place them in the giveaway bags. Take care to check each pocket or flap for personal belongings, that hidden $20 or your favorite lipstick. If the purse is too small for everyday use, tuck it away in a box meant for special events only.

With everything tucked back into its place, and all the extra clothing and accessories removed, you’re ready to start the new week cleansed.

If you find that your closet remains too small, it might be time to reach out to your local real estate professional to see if you can find a better fit.