It’s tempting to think that the best use of our time in terms of decorating our home is to select a nice arc floor lamp or some dining chair covers to brighten up the room. However, most people see best results if they focus on getting rid of clutter that builds up over time. For instance, our wardrobes and cupboards are often full of stuff that we haven’t taken out in ages.

The first place I like to start when cleaning out clutter is in the closet. Start with clothes that you own. Take out everything and make three piles – stuff that you love and wear on a regular basis, stuff that you want to get rid of, and stuff that you think you may wear some day. It’s easy to organize the clothes that you wear regularly, and to put everything you want to get rid of in a bag. In terms of getting rid of clothes, put in this pile everything that no longer fits, is too faded or worn out for you to wear, and clothes that make you look or feel awful. Store the clothes that you think you might wear someday in a big bag or suitcase, and put it away: if you don’t wear the clothes within a year, get rid of them. Keep only the things that you do wear.

You should also get rid of those extra linens and bed sheets that your in-laws gave you but are simply too garish to use, even for guests. Remember that you don’t have to keep things just because they were gifts.

Remember to be honest with yourself when going through your closet. I like to donate my unwanted items. It’s nice to know that they will come to some use and benefit other less fortunate people.