Moving can be an overwhelming task, and organizing your closet is often one of the most challenging aspects. Whether you’re moving across the city or to a new apartment, sorting through your clothes beforehand can save time, reduce stress, and make packing much easier. In a city like New York, where space is at a premium, being thoughtful about what to keep, store, and donate is essential. This guide will help you streamline the process and ensure your move is as smooth as possible.

Start by Evaluating Your Closet

The first step in organizing your closet before a move is to evaluate everything you own. Begin by taking everything out and laying it out to get a clear picture of what’s inside. It might feel like a daunting task at first, but this will help you make decisions about what to keep, store, and donate. In New York, where closet space is often limited, it’s crucial to ask yourself questions like, “Do I wear this regularly?” “Does it fit?” and “Does it match my current lifestyle?” If the answer is no, it’s time to consider parting ways with it. This initial evaluation will help you feel more confident when deciding what stays and what goes.

The “Keep” Pile: Essentials and Favorites

The “keep” pile should consist of the items you wear regularly and those that are versatile enough for all seasons. Make sure to keep clothing for each season—coats for winter, lightweight clothes for summer, and everything in between. New Yorkers often need practical pieces for fluctuating temperatures, so prioritize items that can serve multiple purposes. Also, hold onto items that have sentimental value, but try not to keep things just “in case” you might wear them. If you haven’t worn something in a year, it’s probably time to let go.

The “Store” Pile: Items You Don’t Need Right Now

Some items don’t belong in your everyday wardrobe but can’t quite be donated either. These pieces should go into the “store” pile. This might include out-of-season clothes, formalwear, or items you wear occasionally. If you live in a small space, like many in New York, renting a storage unit can help you store these items safely until you need them. For example, in neighborhoods like Parkchester in the Bronx, storage units can provide a practical solution for bulky winter coats or rarely worn clothes, keeping your closet clutter-free and organized. Renting a storage space offers peace of mind during your move and prevents your new home from becoming overcrowded.

The “Donate” Pile: Letting Go of What You Don’t Need

Donating clothes is one of the simplest and most rewarding ways to clear out your closet. If you haven’t worn something in the last year or it no longer fits, it should go into the donation pile. Organizations like Goodwill and Housing Works are great options for donating gently used clothing, and many of them offer pick-up services, making it easy to part with unwanted items. Donating clothes not only lightens your load for the move but also helps local communities, making it a win-win.

Space-Saving Closet Organization Tips

Once you’ve decided what to keep, store, and donate, it’s time to think about how to organize the remaining items. Maximizing closet space is a must, especially in New York apartments where every inch counts. Use slim hangers, drawer dividers, and stackable bins to create more storage. Consider using vertical space with over-the-door organizers or adding extra shelves to keep everything in order. Rolling clothes instead of folding them can help you fit more into your closet and avoid clutter. Starting your move with an organized closet will make packing a breeze, and you’ll be able to unpack much more quickly in your new home.

When to Pack and What to Leave for Last

As you get closer to your move, it’s important to pack in stages. Begin by packing seasonal items or things you won’t need immediately. This allows you to keep your most essential clothing accessible until the last moment. For the final days before your move, create a “first-out” box with items you’ll need right away, like pajamas, workout clothes, and a couple of casual outfits. This will save you from scrambling to find things when you arrive at your new place.

Timing Your Donations

When donating clothes, timing is key. Try to donate at least a week or two before moving day to avoid being stuck with bags of donations on the big day. If you’re donating in bulk, it’s helpful to schedule a pick-up or drop-off in advance. Taking care of donations early on also gives you a clearer picture of what’s left to pack, making your move more efficient and less stressful.

Prepping Your New Closet

Once you’ve completed your move, it’s time to think about organizing your closet in your new space. Closet storage can be limited, especially in small New York apartments, so plan ahead. Invest in hanging organizers, adjustable shelves, and multi-purpose bins to optimize the space you have. Label your bins and keep similar items together for easy access. And don’t forget to regularly declutter your closet to prevent it from becoming overcrowded again.

Conclusion: A Fresh Start for Your New Home

Moving is the perfect opportunity to get organized and streamline your wardrobe. By sorting through your clothes and deciding what to keep, store, and donate, you can make the moving process easier and your new home more organized. A well-organized closet will save you time, space, and stress. Start early, take the time to evaluate what you truly need, and enjoy a smoother transition to your new space.