4 Awkward Clutter Questions When Decluttering Your Clothing (and What To Do About It!)

If you need help with closet decluttering, you are in the right place! In this video I share some common questions that arise during a closet declutter or when trying to create a minimalist wardrobe. While these questions can be a bit awkward and leave you stumped about what to do, I hope the answers will help you declutter your closet or declutter your clothing that you were stuck on!
Clutter Free January Playlist: Clothing Videos
• Decluttering CLOTHING ...
My Past Clothing Decluttering Videos:
Decluttering My Closet: • Decluttering My Closet...
My Minimalist Winter Wardrobe: • My Minimalist Winter W...
Decluttering My Closet (older version): • Decluttering My Closet...
General Clothing and Recycling Ideas: (check first about local options)
H&M: www2.hm.com/en... (page looks outdated but I've donated here before)
The North Face: www.thenorthfa...
Soles4Souls: soles4souls.or...
Nike Grind: www.nike.com/h...
Bra Recycling: www.brarecycli...
Enroll in my self-paced decluttering course Better with Less to tackle the physical clutter and mental clutter that is holding you back: abundantlymini...
Looking for help with your decluttering? Get a bundle of all of my decluttering ebooks and minimalism challenge guides for over 50% off here: sowl.co/s/h6S7p
Don't want the whole bundle? Here are the links to each of the resources included in the bundle at the regular price:
Abundantly Minimal’s Complete Minimalism Guide: sowl.co/s/CQwr6
Declutter Day by Day: Decluttering Challenges, Checklists, and Planner: sowl.co/s/LRiMx
Declutter without Guilt Ebook and Workbook: sowl.co/s/62q3z
Monthly Minimalist Makeover Challenge Guides: sowl.co/s/UV9g3
Let’s stay in touch!
Instagram: / abundantlyminimal
Due to a decline in sales and changes in the providers I used to give away free downloads and sell my ebooks, the resources and links mentioned in the video may no longer be available. I apologize for the inconvenience!
Disclaimers: All opinions are my own, but any links included in this description may be affiliate links, which help me support my channel, at no cost to you!

[@feezlfuzzl564]

I wish people would donate wool sweaters with holes in them, though. Or sell them directly to me, I suppose. I knit. I can mend them, and make them look really cool, or unravel them and use the yarn. Damaged clothing is often sold at a discount at my local St. Vincent's. I love looking in that rack. They also sell bags of old t-shirts, for cleaning rags, or cut stuff up for quilt fabric. I would love to give new life to damaged clothes, provided they are natural fibers, and I'm sure I'm not the only one.

[@AbundantlyMinimal]

I'm glad you've found a local place that sells damaged clothing!

[@TheDriftwoodlover]

You could put an ISO listing on fb marketplace or a buy nothing group. I’d be happy to give a damaged wool sweater to someone who could repurpose. I have one i want to make into bedding for my dog.

[@fleeperification]

I used to buy wool sweaters for cloth diaper pants!

[@anne-marieesnos9402]

Totally agree. Men s shirts 100 per cent cotton are great for patchwork. It doesn't matter if they have holes or stains on them. They will be appreciated by any quilter. Brooke brothers shirts are the best...

[@rinkusekhon4386]

Wow

[@thisisus4989]

When listening to you my pulse lowers, I refocus and either see how far I have come or what still needs some extra attention. EVERY video of yours is very valuable. I especially appreciate your totally non-stressful voice and deliverance of messages. Please keep 'em coming! You're a treasure.

[@AbundantlyMinimal]

Gosh, thank you so much! I will definitely keep making them!

[@wildminders2233]

Since starting to listen to you some time last year, I’ve always thought of you as Joshua Becker with Girl Power 😉💪🏼💖

[@kaydiangel2445]

.look out

[@abbygator411]

I kept clothes from college, and then when I got back to that size I put them all on and immediately decided to declutter them. No matter the size I am done with low rise jeans now.

[@AbundantlyMinimal]

I totally get that, Abby!

[@teliciamckee9477]

I came to this realization also during my closet purge this month.

[@madeinussr7551]

Lmao same Low rise jeans are a state of mind lol My dad always told me when I was a child :when your time comes, age gracefully. So no Madonna style or Botox for me lol 😂

[@ecleeds]

Your try-on segment was cute -- Enjoyed getting to see that bit of your fun personality.

[@AbundantlyMinimal]

Haha thank you, Elizabeth!

[@feylights166]

@@AbundantlyMinimal I thought that segment was cute, too lol.

[@AbundantlyMinimal]

@@feylights166 Haha thanks!

[@charisedaniels1237]

Yes the denim jacket is a winner on you. My weight has fluctuated for 15 years like crazy and so I have kept clothes out of practicality. I recently got rid of a lot of clothes by asking myself, If I fit into this again, would I want to wear it. Once I kept a shirt that I never wore till one day I made myself wear it. That did the trick. The shirt was gone before the day was over. I'm going to try that some more. Thank you for sensible videos.

[@AbundantlyMinimal]

Those strategies can be so helpful! Thanks, Charise!

[@beckyplatt1235]

Thank you for touching on weight fluctuations! I have a chronic illness that makes me gain/lose weight 10-15lbs on an almost daily basis because of inflammation, and it’s so hard to minimize clothes because of this. I have pants in several different sizes, but I’ve gravitated all my tops/dresses to ones that work for both ends of my typical weight spectrum.

[@AbundantlyMinimal]

You're welcome, Becky!

[@cynthiabower7833]

Ioli

[@thebestwillow]

Here in the UK, there are fabric recycling bins where you can put things unsuitable for donating.

[@AbundantlyMinimal]

I love that!

[@laurafuoco7046]

That's where all my clothes end up, I wear everything to rags

[@Plantje1999]

Same in the Netherlands

[@valerieshy8749]

Very helpful video. I work for an organizing company and I appreciated the comments you made about why folks hold onto items.

[@AbundantlyMinimal]

I'm glad it was helpful, Valerie!

[@MsDoglover02]

I recently went through my "thin" close that I'm saving for when I lose weight and donated some that I know I wouldn't want to wear again. I might be able to weed out more but want to be able to try them on first. For now, they are contained to one medium size plastic bin.

[@AbundantlyMinimal]

I'm glad to hear this, Lynne! One bin is always a favorite approach of mine :)

[@taniayoungson5614]

Again you've presented these tips in such a unique way. I have never heard anyone else address the last area that you talked about, when you have clothes that you don't love but will make them work. This is the case for me. I really don't have many items that I love, certainly less than 5. And that's hard because I don't own much clothing right now. I have donated alot of clothing that I did enjoy but no longer fit or was maybe for a younger me. I have had a minimal wardrobe for a couple years. But I still don't love it. I love your suggestion of a gradual phase out and a longer timeline to bring back items as I find them. I know intentional purchases have been talked about before, but I always felt like I had to go out that season and find them. I'm hoping now I won't put so much pressure on myself. Thanks for the video. I will check out your related wardrobe videos.

[@AbundantlyMinimal]

Thank you so much for the kind words, Tania! Definitely don't put pressure on yourself during this clothing transition. You've got this!

[@taniayoungson5614]

@@AbundantlyMinimal The pressure to find the right clothing is off right now due to the pandemic. Where I live in Canada, stores are only allowed to sell essential items...so groceries mostly. All clothing stores are closed, unless they sell winter boots, coats or underwear. Any non essential items can be purchased online with curbside pick up. 🤪

[@Debbiesdilemmas]

@@taniayoungson5614 I’m in Canada too and have mostly done shopping on line all last year. For everything I’ve bought.....mostly t shirts and leggings....I’ve also decluttered older and unloved clothing. I’ve been doing a gradual phasing out as well and I think it’s a great idea. Now if I buy one new item I will let go of two items. That still allows me to change up my wardrobe to something I’m happy with and still be decreasing the amount of clothing at the same time.

[@marlenek3412]

I love these videos in this Jan. series! Great questions to ask ourselves, and think about while decluttering. You are so inspiring!

[@AbundantlyMinimal]

I'm so glad, Marlene! Thank you!

[@cathylynnpietranton]

Thanks Sarah this was very helpful. You really look good in that color. I'm finally donating a pair of jean that never did fit me right. Hugs from Ohio ❤

[@AbundantlyMinimal]

That's awesome, Cathy! Thank you!

[@AmberSLancaster]

I love the idea of the little reusable squares for toner!!! Thanks 😀

[@AbundantlyMinimal]

I'm so glad, Amber!

[@cindynorris5983]

New here and loved this video! It was refreshing to hear someone give helpful advise. The only keeping what sparks joy sounds good in theory but this was much better for me. The phase out process I have been doing. I have been calling mine “project use up.” I mean there is something oddly satisfying about using something up. Heck, that is why project pan videos are so popular. Also the making yourself wear and style that you have been struggling is also super great. Thanks!

[@AbundantlyMinimal]

Welcome, Cindy! I'm so glad to hear this!

[@dianadadachanji8595]

Absolutely you have given the right advise and taught us the genuine way to approach to declutter

[@lesliecarson684]

Sarah, great informative video today. Love your sassy side!! I clean homes ... so my basic uniform is what I clean in earlier in day then switch comfy cloths after I get home. Boring and very minimal... But really don’t need something fancy . My dress up clothes are basically nice pants and a few blazers or jackets. I have nothing else but a fewT-shirt’s and sweatshirts pants and shorts. I get grief from people... but I guess when it came to minimalism ,wardrobe wise I was right on track. My closet is the one thing I know is intentionally minimal. Your tips are great!! Your tips are great to pass on to others I know who really need it and won’t listen to me. LoL ! I look forward to next week.

[@AbundantlyMinimal]

Thank you so much, Leslie! I appreciate it!

[@EricaLucasLoves]

Oh that what if!!! It’s debilitating when you declutter. Great video!

[@AbundantlyMinimal]

Thank you, Erica!

[@DnAMcD]

Thanks for another great video Sarah 🙏 I did a no buy year for clothes in 2020. I've since purged about 80% of what I had at the beginning of 2020 & only kept a few pieces I really enjoy wearing. I've purchased about 10 new items since the new year. Each item was intentional & was definitely needed. I'm a plus size woman & unfortunately thrift shops have proven to be a huge waste of time for me personally as I never find anything in my size that I like. Whilst I love the idea of thrift shopping it sadly isn't an option so I will choose to purchase my items intentionally & that fit within my budget. PS...I think you looked gorgeous in all of your black t-shirt outfits x Sending abundant blessings from Queensland, Australia 🦘🇦🇺🐨

[@AbundantlyMinimal]

Congratulations on the no-buy year and finding intentional pieces for yourself! Thank you for the kind words!

[@rebeccagreen692]

I cut up old clothes and use them as cleaning cloths. I always notice your bedroom is the same shade of blue as we have too. I love it since we had it done.:)

[@AbundantlyMinimal]

I love it, Rebecca! Great minds think alike :)

[@DazzleDust32]

Hi Sarah, I hope you're well. Great video! I discovered your channel almost two years ago and am so grateful for your content. My cleaning cloths are old t-shirts and my make up removers are cut-up washcloths, thanks to you! Have a great day. x

[@AbundantlyMinimal]

Gosh, thank you so much! I'm so happy to hear that! 💕

[@carmadariacompaniona4181]

Excellent point about resistance to wearing something that you have never worn. I like the idea of actually wearing something to see if it works for you. But, if you know for sure that you don't need to 'test' it, then leave the tags on and try to sell it (Plato's Closet, etc.). And I like the idea of buying "intentional pieces" that truly fill a void in our wardrobes. Thank you!

[@AbundantlyMinimal]

You're very welcome!

[@SimpleHappyZen]

Yay, such a fun video and great advice!! 😄❤ Loved the denim jacket on you.

[@AbundantlyMinimal]

You are the coolest Vera! Thank you!!

[@alamedadanceparty]

Very practical tips. Thank you.

[@AbundantlyMinimal]

You are so welcome!

[@virgierutledge3004]

I use old hole or torn sweaters on my swifer to dust my floors.

[@midsouthhomestead9180]

Thanks. I will be using this tip.

[@kindnessmattersffs]

Problem - I haven’t had the time to fix it and it’s too damaged to wear Solution - you should donate it but be sure to repair any damage before you do. 😂😂😂😂😂😂😂😂😂😂😂😂 I kid!! Awesome video - I’m watching videos in the background trying to stay motivated as I continue on my year long “purge/organize/declutter or bust” journey. Its so hard!! Keep up the good work!

[@sandrafromscotland]

👍 Thanks Sarah. Brilliant way to audit "only keep items from a different size in the direction you want to go". I'm realising that I have a going forward mindset. Yes to fluctuation items to not beat yourself up about what's natural. Clothing is functional for me. Out of your space 💙 I think I'm different (😊😂🥳) I think in terms of an outfit rather than mix & match items, so I wear them as a set.

[@AbundantlyMinimal]

Such a great perspective!

[@jhum71]

I also cut old clothes into face/nose/baby wipes. It is such a great idea! We use them all the time and just toss them in the wash after. They are softer on noses than tissues, more economical and eco-friendly.

[@AbundantlyMinimal]

Yes yes yes! Love it, Jessica!

[@danielmankowski922]

Sarah, for the minimalists out there you are a fashionista! 😊

[@AbundantlyMinimal]

Haha that is very generous! Thanks, Daniel!

[@lucytitus2183]

Such good options! Thank you Sarah!🤗

[@AbundantlyMinimal]

Thank you, Lucy!

[@kathryngarcia8800]

Lots of good advice here!

[@AbundantlyMinimal]

Glad it was helpful, Kathryn! Thanks!

[@pamsunderland6095]

The Denim jacket really suits you. My black shirtsleeve tee has served me well - so versatile.

[@AbundantlyMinimal]

Thank you, Pam!

[@merrivideo]

You can also make produce bags from old textiles. I prefer torn towels for facial pads. How cool that ypu are part of decluttering january

[@AbundantlyMinimal]

Thank you! I am so excited to be a part of it!

[@nancynurse4552]

Another option is to do a clothes swap. Diane in Denmark has videos about how to do one of these.

[@AbundantlyMinimal]

Love it! Thank you, Nancy!

[@alamedadanceparty]

I’ve hosted a couple of those. Always great, and everyone loves their new finds.

[@vegancookiemonsterxx9839]

I live in the uk, i own 3 t, shirts 1 jumper 1 pair of jeans and 1 pair of baggy trousers, i wash regularly. Im losing weight slowly so im not wanting to get more yet, but dont want to get smaller size yet because mind wize having clothes i wouldnt fit into would make me very stressed and sad. So for now just having 6 items are working for me at the moment but not a ling term thing.x

[@AbundantlyMinimal]

Congratulation on the weight loss! It completely makes sense not to purchase smaller sizes just yet to avoid stress and sadness.

[@vegancookiemonsterxx9839]

@@AbundantlyMinimal thank you, i have deppression and avoiding triggers to unnessaserry worries just makes sence. Your looking really healthy you are an insperation x

[@katiethomas5889]

All good questions. I recently threw out really ripped/fallen apart pants, but then I had nice items and I donated those.

[@AbundantlyMinimal]

Thanks, Katie!

[@jaimewilson8933]

Really appreciated the advice on weight. Very well said!

[@AbundantlyMinimal]

Thank you, Jaime!

[@midsouthhomestead9180]

1. I made a blue jeans quilt from all of our old jeans for my husband for Christmas. 2. I made a quilt out of my Mom's house coats. I used the buttons to tack in center of blocks instead of quilting. 3. I have three ceramic jars filled with cut up clothing on my kitchen counter to use as rags or paper towels. 4. I use really soft white or light old t-shirts to cut up into family clothes. It really saves on toilet paper. 5. I recycle my husband's shirts into dresses to work in the garden. He is 6'5" , there is a lot of material to work with. I tried selling on Facebook. However, it is so stressful just getting folks to show up or respond that I had rather recycle or donate. Thanks for video. RHONDA

[@AbundantlyMinimal]

These ideas are awesome, Rhonda! I also totally understand how selling can be stressful!

[@MrsKore20]

you can also use big towels or bedding that you can't use for it's original purpose as an underlay protection when you need to repair your bike and don't want to damage the floor. these big textiles can also function as a protection for furniture in storage.

[@AbundantlyMinimal]

For sure! We are currently using some of these for this purpose!

[@armhay1981]

I feel like this vid was for me... having different sizes of clothes because of weight gain. I set a plan to lose weight so the clothes that I know I wanted to wear again is in the closet. The rest went to donation pile or family members. The bags I sold and gave to family and friends, shoes donated. I’m getting there slowly... #minimal-lifestyle

[@AbundantlyMinimal]

Slow and steady is what it's all about! Keep up the good work!

[@sharonshmuel3386]

Hi Sarah love your channel & found this content very helpful ✅. Old t-shirts can also be given to car mechanics / painters or anyone who does arts & crafts etc. Hope you are keeping safe - we are in our 3rd lockdown Israel 🇮🇱 lol 💝👚👗

[@AbundantlyMinimal]

Thank you, Sharon! We are definitely keeping safe and I hope you do the same!

[@barbkandel777]

I loved your black t-shirt "fashion show". 🙂

[@AbundantlyMinimal]

Haha thank you Barb!

[@bex438]

Some great tips here Sarah, thanks for sharing 👍

[@AbundantlyMinimal]

My pleasure!

[@toritaneka7454]

Love video, with great decluttering advice .

[@AbundantlyMinimal]

Thank you, Tori!

[@wildminders2233]

Thank you 🙏🏼 Haha, your ‘I’m exercising’ mime is just like mine! 🤦🏻‍♀️🤣

[@AbundantlyMinimal]

Haha I love it!

[@scorpio7938]

I try to keep my wardrobe simple black pants and different color shirts i find its stress free and easy

[@AbundantlyMinimal]

That's a great plan!

[@ArtyAntics]

I’m stuck on no 4, I had to buy new clothes because I’ve lost weight. The charity shops are closed because of lockdown so I could only afford a few items and they are very basic. I don’t have many styling options that fit for winter, looking forward to spring!

[@AbundantlyMinimal]

Closed charity shops can certainly make it more difficult. Spring should be here before we know it!

[@EllenKunkel]

Love this video! Some great tips. I like what you said about making sure items you keep in a different size are still your style. However, I do approach my wardrobe in terms of weight gain/loss slightly differently than you. If I gain weight and I'm feeling down about it, I don't want to open my closet and have absolutely nothing that fits. Weight fluctuation is normal and any size that I am I deserve to feel great in my clothes, so when decluttering after a weight change, I only keep items that I would be excited to wear again if I was that size. For example, I gained some weight during quarantine and I was so excited to find that one of my favorite shirts fits again! In my opinion, if you have the space, keeping just a few favorite pieces in particular sizes can be a positive. And the bulk of my wardrobe is either stretchy or can work at most of my in-between weights so that I feel great no matter what the scale says.

[@AbundantlyMinimal]

Great approach!

[@susanrikimaru6630]

Yes! I keep one bin of my bigger size too so that if/when I do have my months of needing to wear that size, at least I have clothes that fit and I like. (And I’m not feeling guilt about purchasing items)

[@ktrudy1]

I have clothes that have a bit of stretch in them. But also if I find my clothes are getting tighter my eating is adjusted. :) #3 is usually my problem. ugh I love thrift stores. but with covid I have stayed away from them. I so miss going.

[@AbundantlyMinimal]

I miss going to them too! Hopefully they will open later this year!

[@ktrudy1]

@@AbundantlyMinimal they’re open here but with COVID-19 I don’t want to be in there handing clothes and thing’s from other’s homes. 🥰

[@mommalynnette8190]

In the past ten years, I have worn several different sizes due to pregnancy, weight loss and weight gain, and bariatric surgery. I have clothes from size 0 up to size 22w in pants, and 1X down to 0-2 for shirts. I have gone through most of it already and donated what does not fit. Now to tackle what is left. I have way too many clothes.

[@AbundantlyMinimal]

One step at a time!

[@ldoro6071]

Thank you for this video 😊

[@AbundantlyMinimal]

You are so welcome!

[@kristenaijala8925]

Pretty color on you!!!

[@AbundantlyMinimal]

Thank you, Kristen!

[@kristenaijala8925]

@@AbundantlyMinimal You're welcome!!

[@ladyhawk5653]

I have grand daughters to hand down to. Some items with tags still on them will be gifted , b-day, Christmas ...

[@AbundantlyMinimal]

That's great!

[@rinkusekhon4386]

I have so many indian suits. Can’t throw them or put them in community bin. I don’t have much spce at home. What can i do

[@adrianasilitonga7335]

My closet, my clothes, range from size 2 to 14.. 😂😂 haha.. I'm like a human yoyo

[@madeinussr7551]

If I ever sell the house I'm leaving everything in it. It's too hard lol

[@diamondbrightxxx7531]

I have a hard time letting go of stuff people give me, like my mom. But I desperately want to get rid of stuff.

[@Nina-hk7ub]

Going to gym to get into my size 4 pants. Lol I was there be4 Covid & I'll get back there.....but I'm hungry..

[@AbundantlyMinimal]

I feel you on that struggle!

[@Havanah2006]

Thank you 🙏

[@AbundantlyMinimal]

You're welcome, Sani!

[@sweetpeace5]

Great video! I’m amazed I watch all videos sped up to 2.0 and you are only talking slightly fast😁So your normal pace is extremely slow! You must be one chill chic😉

[@AbundantlyMinimal]

Haha thanks! I think it depends a lot on the person, since I've been told several times that I talk too quickly haha! I actually edit these videos in double speed so I guess we do the same thing!

[@bhsprinkle]

Most of my clothes are big on me. I have handed down T shirts that fit like tents. Use them for pajamas with sweatpants but I would prefer to own real pajamas. Maybe if I had real pajamas I'd be donating these items because they're annoying to me. I'd love to declutter these items.

[@AbundantlyMinimal]

It sounds like choosing some intentional pajamas could be a meaningful switch for you!

[@bhsprinkle]

@@AbundantlyMinimal Yes. What I currently have is uncomfortable and too big on me.

[@shawna6893]

I don't agree with decluttering everything too big for you. Like you said, not all weight gain in within our control and it's so miserable to gain weight and only have uncomfortable, too tight things to wear.

[@AbundantlyMinimal]

Great perspective, Shawna!

[@scorpio7938]

A long necklace i find dresses a plain top up

[@StacySanseverino]

You have an awesome twirl!

[@AbundantlyMinimal]

Haha thanks, Stacy!

[@jessie9653]

If I need a new jogger set, I cut the old joggers into shorts and cut the hood off the sweatshirt and wear it to bed 😀 then I will buy a new jogger set

[@AbundantlyMinimal]

What a great way to repurpose clothing, Jessica!

[@midsouthhomestead9180]

Great Idea. I will be doing this.

[@julieanne7223]

Thanks for all your advice. you should become a clothes model; you made it look fun to watch!

[@AbundantlyMinimal]

Haha you are too kind! Thank you, Julie!

[@lisaann6267]

people need to think about when they send unwearable items, they have to dispose of them, and it COST THEM money in trash bins they use and have to raise their prices to accommodate over head loss. i have yet to know of place that repair anymore. its just too costly.

[@AbundantlyMinimal]

Definitely!

[@kiaanee]

♡

[@luisasterioquerubin6829]

Still young

[@foundx8426]

Let me remove all obvious items that do not work for me now from my wardrobe, into a luggage, and look through them when I am free.

[@AbundantlyMinimal]

That is a great strategy!