How to Organize Your Winter Gear

As the temperatures continue to drop, it is a great time to organize your cold weather gear. Whether you enjoy winter or merely endure it, you will find it easier if you are organized. Set aside a couple of hours, follow these tips, and you will be ready for Old Man Winter to arrive.

• Out with the Warm – It is time to move the warm weather gear out and make room for your winter gear.  If you can dedicate some space in a basement or spare bedroom closet, this is a great way to store off season clothing.  No extra closet?  Invest in some large labeled storage containers which can be kept in the basement.

• Keep? Before storing fall and winter garments, gloves, boots, etc., sort through them. Ask yourself the following: “Does this fit? Is this outdated? Do I have duplicates? Is this too worn to keep? Did I wear this last year?” Many charities are looking for cold weather clothes, so if you decide to discard something from your closet, consider donating it.

• Wash/Dry Clean– Be sure that everything you want to keep is ready to be worn. Before hanging it up, get them in tip top shape. In this climate, you never know when you may need them!

• Hangers – Invest in durable hangers for all the bulky items (jackets, snow pants, etc.). Hangers are available that can accommodate both the jacket and snow pants together on the same hanger, saving space.
  

• Hats, Gloves, Mittens and Scarves, Oh My! – A bin for each family memberis a great way to keep all of these pieces organized and easy to find.

• Boots – These are typically the messiest of all cold weather attire. I recommend investing in a boot tray to contain the mess.

Follow these tips and enjoy the rest of your fall knowing that you are ready for Old Man Winter!

Donna Lindley, Certified Professional Organizer and owner of Rochester Hills, MI-based Organize Your World, Inc.