Depending on where you live, you may have more of these items than others; but regardless, we all have many jackets and coats. Rain coats, fleece zip ups, winter coats and everything in between, outerwear is big and bulky and with every member of our family likely owning several coats, clutter is inevitable. My home personally has so many coats and jackets that we have had to create an “out of season closet” to house those items that are not in current rotation.
Before we dive in to decluttering our outerwear, check in with other family members to see what they can get rid of or donate, so that the household has what it needs and then begin the process of sifting through all of the outerwear. Jackets and coats that are too small, too big, not being worn can all go. Any items that are damaged or ripped but still wanted can be fixed, but those that are beyond repair can be disposed of. If you have not worn a piece of outerwear for several years, donate it - somebody can surely benefit from this donation especially as cold weather hits. “But this coat was so expensive” you may be saying to yourself. If you have items that you feel have some value, try and find a consignment store that may take them and sell them for you, or you can opt to sell them yourself. Remember, if you are not wearing something it is just taking up valuable space in your closet and it should be moved along.
The Rule of 3 may be helpful when it comes to outwear: using 3 different coloured garbage bags you sort outerwear in terms of garbage, keep and donate. You may only need 2 bags as the items to keep can simply be put back in the closet or rack. If you still find that even after getting rid of many items you don’t have room, find a dedicated space in your house for overflow, your own personal “out of season closet” if you will and go from there. If closet space in your home is in short supply, buying one of those rolling racks and finding a space for it somewhere can also do the trick to help keep overflow items so they are out of sight but also handy when you need them.
At the end of this decluttering exercise, you may be surprised with how many items you have for garbage or donate, leaving you with only the coats and jackets that you want, need and love. Stay warm and happy decluttering!
