Imli Diaries

We've all been there – standing before the chaotic abyss that is our closet, realizing it's high time for a spring clean. You know it's time when you can't find your favorite socks because they're buried under a mountain of "I swear I'll wear it one day" t-shirts.

But hold your hangers! Before you embark on the great wardrobe purge, let’s hit the brakes. We're about to unveil the ultimate guide to decluttering that's not just good for your closet, but also for the environment. 

1. Clutter Couture: Declutter with Purpose

The first step in decluttering your closet is to meditate on why you’re decluttering in the first place. Are you seeking a more organized space? A simplified lifestyle? A style refresh? Or perhaps a more mindful approach to fashion? Understanding your motivations will guide you through the process with clarity and purpose. 

Once you've taken a moment to think, it’s time to take inventory of your wardrobe. Separate your clothes into piles: keep, repair, donate, and recycle. When deciding whether to keep an item, ask yourself: Do I love it? Do I wear it regularly? Does it fit well and suit my style? Does it pair well with other items in my closet?  Is it in good condition, or can it be repaired? In case you’re aiming to build a capsule wardrobe, be sure to check out our super useful guide to the Indian Minimalist Wardrobe!

And, most importantly, don’t forget: the most sustainable clothes are the ones you already own! By making use of and repurposing what you already have, you can reduce waste and lessen the environmental impact of your fashion habits. 

2. Sew What? Fix It, Flip It, Flaunt It!

Ever experienced that heart-sinking moment when your favorite shirt decides to sprout a tiny tear? Well, fear not! You don't have to bid it farewell just yet. Rather than tossing aside clothes with minor imperfections, consider giving them a new lease on life through repair. Simple fixes like sewing on a missing button, patching up a small tear, or fixing a loose hem can significantly extend a garment's lifespan. Did you know that by keeping a piece of clothing in use for just nine extra months, we can cut its water, waste, and carbon footprint by 20-30%?

Upcycling old clothing items is also a great way to unleash your creativity! An outdated dress can become a chic skirt, or a worn-out sweater can be repurposed into cozy mittens. This approach not only reduces waste but also allows you to create unique, personalized fashion pieces. In case your clothes are beyond repair, you can always use them as cleaning rags. 

3. Threads of Change: Donate Mindfully

When donating clothes, it's essential to do so thoughtfully and responsibly. Shockingly, only about 10% of donated clothing ends up being resold and worn, while the remaining 90% often end up in landfills, contributing to environmental and economic issues. Thus, to make sure your old clothes find loving homes, research and identify local organizations that genuinely need and accept clothing donations. Consider donating your clothes to organizations like Goonj, Clothes Box Foundation, and Uday Foundation which distribute clothing to underserved communities and repurpose and upcycle old clothes. Another fun and sustainable idea is to host a clothing swap with your friends. Your unwanted items may become someone else’s wardrobe treasures! 

Congratulations, decluttering dynamo! You've navigated the closet chaos and emerged victorious, armed with a more organized, sustainable wardrobe. Remember, each small step you take—from thoughtful reflection to mindful repair and donation—contributes to a greener planet and a more harmonious home. Happy decluttering, and may your wardrobe be ever in your favor!

Sources:
https://thepeahen.com/closet-cleanout-sustainability/ 

https://www.greencitytimes.com/declutter-your-closet-in-a-sustainable-way/ 

https://retothex.com/blogs/news/sustainable-spring-closet-cleanout 

https://www.sustainablebaddie.com/blog/how-to-sustainably-clean-out-your-closet 

https://sustainability.yale.edu/blog/how-sustainably-clean-out-your-closet