You Probably Have Way Too Many Winter Accessories: Here's How To Declutter Them

You've made it to the tail end of winter, which means it's the perfect time to get on top of your spring cleaning. Between more time spent indoors while it's cold outside and the end of holiday shopping, chances are you're dreading the very necessary declutter that a change of seasons necessitates. Unless you're already practicing minimalism or mindful consumption, staying organized while storing your seasonal décor and winter clothing is likely a challenge. At least where all that outerwear is concerned, you can use the one-in, one-out method to sort it out.

The decluttering concept one-in, one-out involves getting rid of — whether tossing out or donating — a home essential when you purchase a new one. You can use this method for pretty much any room in your home. For example, you throw away that faded, fraying, moth-eaten winter coat from your bedroom or mudroom closet the minute you buy and bring home the same item new. Let's say you purchase a light sweater for the spring season; you'd consider donating the sweater you wore the previous season that's still in good condition to your local thrift store. It's a super simple cleaning hack that keeps your home tidy and turns shopping for accessories — either wearable or for your home — into a conscious practice.

As with most decluttering methods, when employing the one-in, one-out method, it can be less stressful if you approach the task room by room. You need to compartmentalize the areas of the home by listing out the different rooms you'll be shopping for: bedroom, living room, kitchen, and so on. Next, gather up a few boxes or bags to contain all the winter items you have replaced and need to take outside to donate, recycle, sell, or discard. Finally, before you begin any shopping, make a list of all the items you need to replace. Be discerning; if something still works, is in decent condition, and (perhaps most importantly) you like and use it, keep it. If it doesn't meet these criteria, it's okay to remove it.

With winter an unbeatable time to declutter your linen closet, you could consider starting there. Does your bed need a refresh with new bedsheets, a duvet insert, or a blanket? Consider giving away those pilled chunky knit throws and flannel sheets you've had for years. Looking to purchase new mittens, knitted tops, or fluffy socks for next winter? In either case, remove the item you're replacing so you don't have repeats taking up storage space. You can even apply this technique to seasonal décor. If you're eager to start adorning your home in pretty spring things, toss or donate Christmas decorations that are looking worse for wear or anything you don't think you'll use again.