1. Get Rid of What you Don’t Want or Need – This process doesn’t have to be dreaded-think of it as shopping in your closet! Try on the things you haven’t worn recently. Is it something you would buy again? Keep it if the answer is yes. (Make sure it fits well, is in style, and that it doesn’t need major repairs.) The rest should be consigned or donated. Get the clothes that don’t fit currently out of your closet and into storage if your weight tends to fluctuate-put them in plastic bins in your basement or other storage area. Remember this: Your closet should be considered prime real estate, devoted only to clothes you currently wear.

2. Categorize

* Hanging — pants, button-ups, shirts, long items

* Folded – sweaters, sweatshirts, jeans, tee-shirts, shorts, sweats

3. Color-coordinate each category- Organize clothes left to right, light to dark, white to black.

4. Get matching hangers – You can save space and have a great looking closet when all your hangers are the same. (I prefer the thin velvety ones; they are compact, clothes don’t fall off of them, and they won’t create unsightly shoulder bumps.)

5. Hang belts, ties, and scarves – A pull-out rack is perfect for hanging these things. It will save time and space and keep your closet looking tidy. Hooks are another great option.

6. Use drawers – for things such as undergarments, socks, hosiery, jewelry, and pashminos. Dividers are ideal for making sure socks and undergarments stay organized in your drawers.

7. Use shelves – if at all possible. Shelves work better than drawers because your folded items are easier to access – you won’t need to dig for your stuff. Shelves are ideal for things like purses, jeans, tee-shirts, sweaters, sweatshirts, shorts, and sweats.

Off-season clothes and shoes should be put on high shelves that are out of sight so you won’t be tempted to grab them!

“A well appointed closet may not take pounds off your body but it will shed the emotional weight that having a disorganized environment brings.” –Better Homes & Gardens, Summer 2006

Heidi DeCoux is publisher of Life Made Simple e-Magazine, a professional organizer and creator of the Fast-Filing Method home office filing system. Heidi energizes her readers’ by simplifying their homes & schedules. For more info, free tips, and to receive her FREE Report: The Fast & Easy Way to Get Organized and Stay Organized Forever, visit ClearSimpleLiving.com