Keep or Toss: The Simple and Fun Way to Clean Out Your Closet

Cleaning out your closet can feel like a daunting task, but it doesn’t have to be. One of the easiest ways to streamline the process is by using the 3- Category sorting method “Keep, Maybe, Toss”. This simple approach helps you evaluate each piece in your wardrobe and make decisions quickly. By breaking your clothes into three piles—keep, maybe, and toss—you can clear out the clutter and create a closet full of pieces that truly reflect your style.

The keep pile is for items that you love and wear regularly. These are the pieces that fit your color palette, match your style essence, and serve a purpose in your wardrobe. When you go through your clothes, ask yourself: Does this item make me feel great? Does it fit my current lifestyle? If the answer is yes, it stays. This process helps you focus on the clothes that truly add value and joy to your closet.

The maybe pile is where things get interesting. These are the pieces you’re unsure about—items you haven’t worn in a while, or clothes that don’t quite fit your current style but still hold some sentimental value. Instead of tossing them immediately, give yourself a grace period. Try them on again, mix them with other items, and see if they can work in new outfits. If after a few weeks they still don’t fit, it’s time to toss or donate. The maybe pile allows you to make a decision without feeling rushed, giving you a chance to reconsider.

Finally, the toss pile is for the clothes that are damaged, worn out, or simply no longer serve you. It’s essential to let go of these items because they take up space in your closet and don’t help you feel your best. Whether it’s a pair of jeans with a broken zipper or a top that’s too small, letting go of these pieces clears the clutter and opens up space for new, more purposeful pieces. Instead of just tossing them, consider donating or selling clothes that are still in good condition. Donating to a charity or selling gently used items not only helps others, but it’s also a sustainable way to reduce waste and give your clothes a second life. It’s a small act that can make a big difference, both for your closet and for someone else’s.

By using the Keep, Maybe, Toss method, you create a simpler, more intentional wardrobe. This process allows you to be thoughtful about what stays and what goes, helping you curate a closet that makes getting dressed easier and more enjoyable. It’s not just about cleaning out—it’s about creating space for pieces that make you feel good every time you wear them.

Struggling to declutter your closet? I put the 3-Pile Method to the test—see how it transformed my space and get my best tips for editing your wardrobe! Watch the reel here: Instagram 

Xx, Kendyl