5.The GIVE AWAY pile should be the articles of clothing (or other items that found their way into your closet) that don?t meet the above criterion but that are in good shape. Put these articles in a box or bag and put them in the trunk of your car now. At your earliest convenience take them to your local charity. Remember to get a receipt for tax purposes.

6.The THROW AWAY pile is for all of those things that no longer serve any useful purpose. This includes items that are ripped or stained. Bag those items up and put them out with your household trash now.

7.The MOVE pile is for those items that don?t belong in your closet. Take the time now to put those items where they belong. If there is no room to put a particular item away, make note of the area and put it on your list of places to declutter. Stuff it in there for now or put it in the garage, but don?t put it back in your closet.

8.Now you are ready to put all of the things you want to keep back in your closet. Sort out your KEEP pile into types of clothing. Separate your slacks, your shirts or blouses, your jackets, suits, etc.

9.Start with one type and hang each item neatly on a hanger, facing all items and hangers the same direction. If you share a closet with someone, keep your clothing separate.

10.When you are finished with the hanging portion, put your shoes on your shoe rack, your ties on the tie rack, your belts on the belt hook. Once again, if you share a closet keep your items separate. If you have some odds and ends that need a home in your closet, consider buying some inexpensive organizing containers to store them. Many people are finding that an over-the-door pocket shoe holder is great for odds and ends and accessories. You can see through the pockets and the items are easily accessible.

Wow! You did it. Doesn?t it feel good? Stand back and look at your closet and give yourself a pat on the back. Invite your friends over to see all of your hard work. Celebrate by treating yourself to something special. You deserve it.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR Theresa Frasch is a ?Decluttering Specialist.?

Get your FREE Organized 4 Success E-zine and/or "How to Declutter for
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Theresa Frasch may be contacted at www.organized4success.com
mailto:theresa@organized4success.com