KonMari Closet Decluttering Checklist
Created by Cheli
Step-by-step guide to declutter a closet using Marie Kondo's KonMari method.
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Checklist Items (23)
Prepare for the decluttering session
Set aside a dedicated block of time, gather necessary supplies, and create a motivating environment.
Schedule a specific time block
Choose a day when you have at least 2-3 uninterrupted hours and mark it on your calendar.
Gather supplies
Get trash bags, boxes for donation, sticky notes, a pen, and a full-length mirror.
Create a motivating atmosphere
Play upbeat music or a favorite podcast, and open windows for fresh air.
Empty the closet completely
Remove every item from the closet to see exactly what you own.
Remove all clothing
Take out shirts, pants, dresses, jackets, and any apparel stored on hangers or shelves.
Remove accessories and shoes
Pull out belts, scarves, hats, jewelry, and all footwear from the closet floor and shelves.
Sort items by KonMari categories
Group belongings into the five KonMari categories to process them systematically.
Clothing
All garments, including undergarments and socks.
Books
Any books, magazines, or reading materials stored in the closet.
Papers
Documents, receipts, manuals, or paperwork kept in the closet.
Komono (miscellaneous)
Items like accessories, bags, belts, scarves, and small household items.
Sentimental items
Keepsakes, gifts, or anything with emotional attachment.
Evaluate each item for joy
Hold each item in your hands and ask yourself if it sparks joy; keep only those that do.
Hold the item
Physically pick up the item and feel its texture and weight.
Ask the joy question
Silently ask, 'Does this spark joy?' and notice your immediate emotional response.
Note your feeling
If you feel excitement or happiness, place it in the keep pile; otherwise, set it aside for discard/donate/sell.
Decide what to keep, donate, sell, discard
Separate items into four distinct piles based on your joy evaluation and condition.
Keep pile
Items that spark joy and are in good condition; you will store them back in the closet.
Donate pile
Gently used clothing and accessories suitable for charity; ensure they are clean.
Sell pile
Higher-value items you can sell online or at consignment shops; take photos and list them.
Discard pile
Items that are stained, torn, or unusable; place them in trash or recycling as appropriate.
Fold and store kept items using KonMari folding
Learn the signature KonMari fold to store items vertically, maximizing visibility and accessibility.
Organize items back into closet by frequency/use
Place frequently used items at eye level, seasonal items higher or lower, and use dividers to keep sections tidy.
Place everyday wear at eye level
Hang or fold items you wear weekly on the middle shelf or rod for easy access.
Store seasonal items appropriately
Put off-season clothing on the top shelf or in bins; rotate as seasons change.
Use organizers and dividers
Insert shelf dividers, drawer separators, or bins to keep stacks from toppling.