Source: myscandinavianhome.blogspot.com.au
Spring means it's time to dig out those warmer-weather clothes, which is a perfect excuse to give your wardrobe a good, thorough clean out. Taking stock of your clothes will create more space, peace of mind and help you shop - we're all guilty of buying multiple of the same item or buying something we've never worn. Here are Biome's tips on a successful wardrobe spring clean.
1. Get it all out in the open: It may seem counter-intuitive, but the best way to start a wardrobe reorganise is to make a big mess! Dump all your clothes, from every drawer and cupboard, in a big pile on your bedroom floor. This will give you a clear picture of just how much you own (and will make you think twice the next time you say you have nothing to wear!). Empty drawers first and then lay hanging items on top so as not to crush them.
2. Consider each item individually: Take your time with every single piece of clothing. Ask yourself the following question Have I worn this in the last 6 months? - If yes, will you wear it again? Does it represent your style? Do you feel confident and like you when you wear it? - If no, consider why. Does it fit? Does it require mending? Is it for special occasions? Is it something you bought on impulse and have never worn?
3. Stick to a system: Now it's time to consider your piles - Keep, Store, Mend, Donate/Swap/Sell, Upcycle and if something is in very poor condition, Trash. Remember to consider how a garment might have a successful second life. Can you fix a zipper? Do you have a friend who loves printed maxi-dresses? Can you turn the old flannel shirt into cleaning rags? Consider organising a clothes-swap with friends for a fun way to refresh your wardrobe. Donating to charities like the Salvation Army , Endeavour Foundation or Dress for Success can be a good option, but you must ensure clothes are clean and in good condition.
4. Clean! Now that you have a streamlined wardrobe, you don't want to put it back in a musty old closet. After dusting, try wiping cupboards with a green cleaning multi-purpose spray like this one from Ecologic or mix your own from essential oils like lavender and eucalyptus.
5. Re-organise: Don't put dirty or broken clothes back in your wardrobe. Keep them in the open so you are forced to deal with them. Make sure you are folding and hanging clothes correctly. Hang: most dresses, shirts, blouses, suits, blazers, jackets, skirts (on skirt hangers) and pants that crush (hang over the sturdy rods of wooden hangers or the clamp the waistband in trouser hangers). Fold: all knitwear (it can stretch out of shape if hung), jeans, casual pants and shorts like chinos and khakis, underwear, t-shirts, long or heavily embellished dresses. And that's it! An organised wardrobe full of clothes you actually wear. What a dream!
