In the words of Eminem, I’m cleaning out my closet. But first, a closet-themed dance break for the Marshall Mathers fans out there (full disclosure: I can do a pretty decent Eminem impression).
Now that the interlude is over, on to the real story. The closet is already cleaned — not just mine but ours. Before we got a proper dresser, we lived for more than three months with piles of socks and pajamas on the closet floor. It was chaotic and hard to manage, especially since our old dresser had a busted drawer and the whole system felt off. Once the new dresser arrived with fully functioning drawers, there were no more excuses. We finally organized everything, even though we procrastinated a bit longer. Below are a few “before” shots (I semi-cleaned up first so underwear and boxers weren’t the main focus):
The first task was to sort the cubbies shown in the middle photo and decide which items would stay in those cubbies and which would move into the dresser. We designated all the cubbies for John, while the top two and the middle dresser drawer became mine. My socks and underwear went in the top left drawer, bathing suits in the top right, and pajamas and bras in the middle drawer. That freed the bottom dresser drawer for John’s running clothes.
John’s pajamas, underwear, jeans, swimsuits, and shorts were moved into the closet cubbies using old baskets we’ve kept since our wedding registry days. They act like faux-drawers and prevent items from spilling over. We also relocated the bulky hamper into the bottom cubby — we removed the lid for easier tossing and quicker access.
Next, John pared down his wardrobe and we filled a large donation bag. He surprised me by deciding to hang many of his T-shirts — it turned out to be the most space-efficient solution since cubby and drawer space was limited. Having them hung in one spot makes everything easier to find and keeps the closet neater.
On my side, I also removed anything I never wear and added it to the donation bag. That cleared out transitional maternity pieces and other items that had been stored in a bin in the attic. The hanging section now contains my daily wear: T-shirts, tops, sweaters, cardigans, scarves, jackets, pants, dresses, suits, blazers, and skirts. Aside from pajamas (in my dresser) and winter coats (in the coat closet), this represents the clothing I wear regularly.
The shelf above my hanging bar received a major purge and reorganization. I kept three pairs of jeans I wear often and folded two frequently used sweaters, removing many items I rarely reach for. The result is a much tidier shelf and accessible wardrobe essentials.
I also created room to “grow” — there’s now an empty top shelf on my side and only a few items on the shelf below it, which makes the closet feel more open and functional.
And for those who appreciate shoes: here are most of mine (a few live on John’s shoe shelf because he’s sweet and shares space). I tend to buy shoes affordably — many from DSW or consignment shops — so I allow myself a modest collection of special-occasion pairs. They’re not everyday items, but the colorful sandals, wedges, and a couple of leopard heels brighten outfits and make me happy.
On the shelf above the rest of my hanging clothes I kept a small selection of favorite scarves, a wide black belt, a few clutches, and two purses that are currently out of rotation. Organizing accessories in one place keeps them visible and easy to grab when needed.
The difference is obvious: more visible floor space, an organized shelf system, and a tucked-away hamper make the closet feel larger and more functional.
And if things start to get out of hand again, there’s a simple solution: turn off the light, draw the curtain, and hide the mess. Honest housekeeping, right?
What can I say? At least I’m honest.