Cut Clutter

According to professional organizer, Peter Walsh, clothing clutter is the most common problem faced by households. When it comes to clothes, it is seldom an issue of not enough space. The real issue is simply too much stuff, and that's where we need to look for the solution to the clothing clutter.

In his book, "It's All Too Much", Walsh provides the following tips:

• If you have unworn clothes that have been in your closet longer than six months, give them away to a worthwhile charity or take them to a consignment shop.

• Almost everyone has "wish clothes" in their closets. These are the clothes that could be worn if 10 to 20 pounds were lost. Any clothes that no longer fit should be removed from the closet. If you lose weight, reward yourself with clothes that are in style.

• If you have too many shoes, consider discarding one pair for every five pairs you own. In the future, whenever you buy a pair of shoes, discard a pair of shoes.

• Don't let discarded outfits accumulate on a chair or dresser. Put them away as soon as you reject them.

• Jewelry may be small, but it can be difficult to store neatly. Throw away all those little jewelry boxes and get rid of anything you don't wear, regardless of how valuable it may be. Place your entire collection in one box, separating necklaces, rings, bracelets, and earrings.

• Each month, take time to purge, donate and consign extra items of clothing.