11 items to purge from your closet for a clutter-free wardrobe

5. Items you haven’t worn in a year

Whether it was a gift or clearance-rack steal that was impossible to pass up, we all have those items we never wear. Purge any clothing item that's too big, too small, stained, or threadbare. As a general rule, if you haven’t worn an item in a year, it's time for it to go.

6. Luggage

Instead of storing luggage in your closet, stash it under your bed or in the basement or attic. Before you pack it away, however, take advantage of the empty space inside and use that suitcase to store out-of-season items or extra linens.

7. Outdoor accessories

Clear hats, scarves, and mittens out of your closet and instead store them by the door. A small basket or the drawer of an entryway console table works well for storing outdoor accessories in a convenient spot. Then you can bundle up right before you head out the door.

8. Jewelry

Pretty jewelry can double as art if it’s displayed correctly. Keep your necklaces on a tree and rings in a decorative dish, but keep them out of your closet. Closet space is typically tight, so you might knock valuables over when pulling out a dress or grabbing a bin from the top shelf. Storing jewelry on a vanity is a much safer (and more easily accessible) option for small accessories.

9. Your wedding dress

You might be holding on to your wedding dress for the next generation or for the sake of sentiment, but it’s best to store it somewhere other than your closet. Most gowns require special storage and take up a lot of space. Wrap the dress in a garment bag, then store it away from light in a hall closet or under the bed.

10. Pet accessories

Keep any animal toys or beds out of the closet. And if you have a walk-in closet design, keep your furry friends out too. This helps protect your clothing from pet hair, odors, or potential damage. Dog hair and black pants do not mix, nor do a cat’s claws and leather boots.

11. Food gifts

Keeping food items or gifts, such as fancy chocolates, in your closet invites a host of pesky problems. Moths, mice, and other critters can be lured in by the scent of food and cause damage to your wardrobe. Always store food items in the kitchen, even if the package appears tightly sealed.

(Better Homes and Gardens is a magazine and website devoted to ideas and improvement projects for your home and garden, plus recipes and entertaining ideas. Online at www.bhg.com.)