Let’s talk closets. You know, that magical place where clothes go to die? If you’re like most of us, your closet is probably a chaotic mix of old sweaters, mismatched shoes, and that one dress you swear you’ll wear again someday. But, if you’re feeling a bit overwhelmed by the clutter and the dust bunnies that seem to be multiplying in the corners, it might be time to take a closer look. Spoiler alert: there are a few things in your closet that you’ve probably never cleaned, and they might be more important than you think!
1. The Top Shelf
Ah, the top shelf. It’s like a secret world above the clothes. You throw things up there, hoping they’ll magically disappear, and then promptly forget about them. Dust collects like it’s in a competition, and who knows what else might be lurking up there? Grab a sturdy ladder and take a peek — you might find long-lost treasures, or at least a few expired candles that need to go. And trust me, that dust isn’t just decorative.
2. Your Shoe Collection
Don’t even get me started on shoes. They’re like a little army of chaos in your closet. We step in all sorts of things when we wear them, and they often end up with a layer of mud or mystery stains. A quick wipe-down with a damp cloth can work wonders, but if you’re feeling ambitious, give them a deep clean. Your shoes deserve a spa day too! And let’s be honest, they might even smell better afterward.
3. The Hangers
Seriously, when’s the last time you thought about the hangers? They’re the unsung heroes of our closets, and they deserve some love. Over time, they can gather dust, grime, and who knows what else from the clothes they hold. Take them out and give them a wash with some warm, soapy water. It’s a small step, but it’ll make your closet feel a bit fresher — and it’s one of those little things that often gets overlooked.
4. The Closet Floor
You might sweep or vacuum the floor, but let’s get real: it often doesn’t get the attention it deserves. There’s probably a collection of lint, dust, and maybe even a snack that rolled under there ages ago. Pull everything out and give it a good cleaning. You’ll be amazed at how much better you feel in a clean space. Plus, it’s a great excuse to see if you’ve left any long-lost items behind that are just waiting to be rediscovered!
5. Storage Bins and Baskets
If you’re using bins and baskets to store things, that’s great! But guess what? They need love too. Take a moment to empty them out and give them a good wipe down. You might be surprised by what’s hiding in there — old receipts, random change, or that one sock you thought was gone forever. It’s like a treasure hunt, minus the actual treasure — but hey, at least you’ll have some peace of mind.
6. The Back of Your Closet
We all do it: shoving things to the back of the closet like we’re hiding them from our own judgment. It’s a closet black hole. But that space is prime real estate! Clear it out and see what’s been hiding back there. A vacuum and some good old-fashioned elbow grease can turn that awkward corner into a useful storage area. Plus, think of the satisfaction you’ll feel when you finally find that jacket you swore you lost!
7. Clothes You’ve Forgotten About
And now, the moment of truth: those clothes you’ve been avoiding. You know the ones — they haven’t seen the light of day in ages. It might be time for a little closet audit. Ask yourself if you really need that sequined top from the last decade or if it’s time to let it go. Not only will you free up space, but you might also find pieces you forgot you loved. It’s like shopping, without spending a dime!
8. Seasonal Items
Finally, let’s not forget about seasonal items. Those holiday decorations or summer beachwear can take up a lot of space, and if you’re not careful, they’ll just gather dust. Take a day to sort through them. Reassess what you actually use and what you might be able to donate. You’ll feel lighter, and your closet will breathe easier, making room for the things you truly love and use.
More from Decluttering Mom: