I like that feeling of being able to pull something out that I know fits and is appropriate for the season.
If you dread the seasonal changeover, try out my best tips for sorting and storing seasonal clothes. They may make it easy and fun!
For the out of season clothes:
Tip 1: Pick a block of time to tackle this project when the kids are in someone else’s care. It will make it much easier if your kids aren’t putting back everything your pulling out.
Tip 2: Invest in the proper storage units. I’m partial to clear plastic tubs. I like that I can write what’s in each tub (gender, size, season) on a piece of paper and stick it in the tub, facing out, so I know exactly what’s being stored.
Tip 3: As you take out the items that are going out of season, sort through them. Make a pile for each size clothing and then separate each pile into tops, bottoms, dresses, outfits, etc. Toss anything with holes or stains and put items that are gently worn because you didn’t really like them so much in a giveaway bag. I find that keeping the items that are in great shape and that I really like, make this process much more manageable.
Tip 4: Pack up the items that are going out of season. Ideally, each bin should host one size for one gender. Regardless of what you fill each bin with, a descriptive label is essential.
Tip 5: Stack the bins away. If there’s a chance your child will fit into the same size the next season they’re appropriate for, I store the bin in the closet. If not, I store them in the basement.
For the in season clothes:
Tip 1: Pull out any bins that have the proper size and season stored in them.
Tip 2: Separate the items into piles of tops, bottoms, dresses, etc.
Tip 3: Take inventory. See how many of each item you have. I usually aim to have 10 outfits per season.
Tip 4: Make a list of the items you’ll need to complete the season’s wardrobe. Writing a list helps assure that way you’re only shopping for items you really need. Be specific, for example if you need a white shirt, write “Size 4, short sleeved cotton t-shirt.”
Tip 5: Put the incoming clothes away in an organized fashion. I like to put clothes away by outfit, either hanging the outfit up or putting the top and bottom together in the draw. In addition to making it easy to find what I’m looking for, this assures that on the days my husband dresses the kids, they match.
What tricks do you have for transitioning over the kids wardrobe? I’d love to hear them! Share them in the comments section below.
