Joyful Tidying: A Five Part Series on How to Master the Magic of the KonMari Method.
- Andrea Guidera
- 6 days ago
- 3 min read
Understanding the KonMari Method
Before we dive into today's topic of clothing decluttering, let’s discuss the key principles of the KonMari Method. This approach is all about keeping items that "spark joy.
Marie Kondo emphasizes that tidying is not just about getting rid of things; it’s about creating joy and space in your life. The KonMari Method, designed by Marie Kondo, can transform not just your closet, but your entire home and mindset.
There are five areas of importance that Marie Kondo focuses on: clothing, books, paper, miscellaneous and sentimental. By the end of this series, you will not only have an organised home but also a refreshed view of your belongings.
Your Closet: A vision of disappointment?
Are you overwhelmed by the clutter in your closet? Do you find it challenging to pick an outfit due to the chaos? You're not alone! Many people desire a calm and organised space, but don't know where to begin. The next 5 steps are the start towards a clutter free closet and more calm and productive life.
Step 1: Gather All Your Clothes
The first step in the KonMari Method is to gather every piece of clothing you own in one spot. Yes, that means every shirt, pair of pants, and accessory! It may seem daunting, but seeing everything together will provide clarity.
Empty your drawers, clear closets, and check storage bins. By placing all clothing items in one place, you might be surprised by how much you actually have. This visual can serve as motivation to downsize!

Step 2: Sort by Category, Not Location
Marie Kondo recommends sorting clothes by category rather than by location. Start with tops, then bottoms, followed by jackets and dresses. This makes the process organised and helps you understand your wardrobe better.
While sorting, reflect on each item. Ask yourself, "Does this spark joy?" If it doesn't, consider donating, selling or recycling it. Great examples of where you can sell your clothing are Vinted, e-Bay, Facebook Marketplace, car boot (if you are in the UK) or garage sales (if you are in the US).
Step 3: Folding Techniques
Once you've selected which clothes to keep, it's time to master folding! The KonMari folding method maximizes space while allowing you to see all items easily. For tops, fold them into small rectangles and stand them up vertically in your drawers.
This method not only saves space but provides joy each time you open a drawer. You'll no longer waste time digging; instead, every piece will be visible at a glance!

Step 4: Organizing Your Closet
With clothes sorted and folded, it’s time to organise your closet! Think of it as a serene sanctuary. Arrange clothes by category and color to create an inviting display.

If you love accessories, think of creative ways to showcase them, perhaps using hooks or decorative boxes. The goal is to create a space that excites you about getting dressed every day!
Step 5: Maintenance to Keep the Joy Alive
After tidying up, how can you maintain this joy? The secret lies in being mindful whenever you introduce new items into your home. Always ask, "Does it spark joy?" before making a purchase. Aside from asking the question about "joy", you should also be asking yourself, "would you buy this item again?" and "can I style at least three other outfits with this item?"
Additionally, make evaluating your wardrobe a habit. Seasonal clean-outs help you stay organised. Keeping a small donation bin in your closet can make it easy to part with items you no longer wear.
Embracing the Joy of Tidying
Tackling your clothing can be a rewarding journey with the KonMari Method. By decluttering your closet, you create not just a beautiful space, but also invite joy into your life. Remember, tidying is a practice, not a one-time task.
Stay committed to mindfulness, and soon you will enjoy a more organised home and lifestyle. Join us in the next part of this series, where we will explore organizing books—another essential area that deserves your attention!
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