Let’s be real—clothes have a sneaky way of taking over your life, don’t they? You start with a neat closet, and before you know it, you’re shoving sweaters into drawers and cramming hangers into any available space. If this sounds familiar, it might be time to try the Marie Kondo method for storing your clothes.
Marie Kondo’s philosophy is all about creating a space that sparks joy, and her method for organizing clothes is surprisingly simple yet life-changing. So, if you’ve ever felt overwhelmed by your wardrobe or struggled to find the right way to store your clothes, keep reading—we’re going to break it down for you in six simple steps.
1. Declutter: Asking “Does It Spark Joy?
The Marie Kondo method starts with a full-on decluttering session. Gather every single piece of clothing you own—yes, from every piece of furniture and room in the house—and pile it up in one spot.
Then, one by one, pick up each item and ask yourself, “Does this spark joy?” If it does, keep it. If not, thank the item for its service and let it go. This might sound a little sentimental, but it’s actually kind of freeing. You’ll be left with a wardrobe filled only with clothes you genuinely love, making the rest of the organizing process much easier.
2. Fold Like a Pro
Marie Kondo’s folding technique is sure to revolutionize your storage. Instead of stuffing clothes into drawers, she teaches a method that lets you see everything at a glance. The goal? Fold each item into a compact rectangle that can stand upright on its own.
Here’s how to fold using the Marie Kondo method:
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Lay the item flat and smooth out any wrinkles.
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Fold one side toward the center, then the other side to create a long rectangle.
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Fold the rectangle in halves or thirds until it can stand up vertically.
This method works for almost everything—shirts, pants, pajamas, even socks. When you store your folded clothes upright in drawers, it’s not just more organized—it’s also easier to find what you’re looking for.
3. Hang Clothes the KonMari Way
Not all clothes are meant to be folded. For dresses, coats, and delicate fabrics, hanging is often the better option. But Marie Kondo takes hanging clothes to the next level.
She suggests arranging your hanging clothes from left to right, starting with heavier, darker items and ending with lighter, shorter ones. This creates a visually pleasing “upward slope” that makes your closet feel light and inviting. It’s a small change that can make a big difference.
4. Group Clothes by Category
One of the best tips from the Marie Kondo method is to store your clothes by category rather than scattering them across different areas. For example, keep all your tops in one drawer, your pants in another, and your workout gear in its own section.
By grouping similar items together, you’ll always know exactly where to find what you need. It’s an easy way to save time and avoid the dreaded “I have nothing to wear” feeling.
5. Look for Thoughtful Storage Solutions
Marie Kondo encourages using storage options that make you happy. This doesn’t mean you have to buy expensive organizers, but you should choose solutions that are functional and pleasing to you.
One of the best options for long-term clothing storage? Cotton storage bags. These breathable bags are perfect for keeping out dust and pests while allowing natural fibers to breathe, which is essential for protecting your favorite pieces. Whether you’re storing seasonal items or special occasion outfits, a high-quality cotton garment bag can keep them in great condition.
Hayden Hill cotton garment bags are perfect for the job. Made from 100% organic cotton, they’re not only eco-friendly but also designed to keep your favorite pieces safe and looking their best. It’s a simple, sustainable way to protect the clothes you love.
6. Keep the Joy Going
Once your clothes are decluttered and beautifully organized, the key is to maintain the system. Make it a habit to return items to their designated spots after wearing or washing them. And every so often, revisit your wardrobe to make sure everything still sparks joy.
Your preferences can change over time, and that’s totally fine. The Marie Kondo method isn’t about perfection—it’s about creating a system that works for you and brings a sense of peace and joy to your everyday life.
At its core, the Marie Kondo method is about more than just tidying up—it’s about treating your belongings with respect and surrounding yourself with things that truly make you happy.
When you declutter your closet, fold clothes with care, and choose thoughtful storage solutions, you’re not just organizing—you’re creating a space that reflects your values and style. If your wardrobe has been stressing you out, the Marie Kondo method might be just what you need.
