Tired of battling closet chaos? Discover the simple ‘One-In, One-Out’ rule that keeps your closet neat and clutter-free without the stress.
No matter how big or small your closet is, the frustration is the same when you’re looking for something and can’t find it without an avalanche of boxes falling on your head.
Whether your clutter is on the floor, the shelves, or crammed on hangers, all this mess is overwhelming. It sure takes all the fun out of buying new clothes when you can’t find room to put them.
The answer is simple – just declutter – right? Sure, but when it piles up, it’s easier to shut the door and ignore it. This is why I recommend preventing the chaos before it gets too bad.
That’s why I follow the one-in and one-out rule. It’s simple, effective, and prevents future clutter. And in this guide, you’ll learn what it is, how to apply it, and how to overcome a lot of hurdles that many people have.
If you’re ready to embrace a simple yet powerful strategy for lasting wardrobe peace, then keep reading.
What “One In, One Out” Really Means
As you can probably tell, the one-in and one-out rule means that every single time you bring something new into your closet, you donate or throw away something else.
This isn’t a new idea, but it’s a very important one. The beauty is in how straightforward it is. You don’t have to follow complex systems or allow the clutter to build up until you’re overwhelmed again.
In fact, the math is easy enough to understand. If you add more than you remove, clutter grows. This rule ensures that you won’t run out of storage room.
This rule applies to everything that’s in your closet. Whether you add new clothes, handbags, accessories, or shoes – when you bring something in, take something else out.
One In, One Out Benefits
Before we get into the specifics of the rules, we need to really understand why this is such an important one to follow.
Following this habit will give you the tools you need for sustainable organization. This is the ultimate preventative measure. No more massive seasonal purges that feel overwhelming.
Plus, when you clear out all of your clutter, it should be for good. This rule helps you keep it that way. But did you know a clean and organized closet is good for your mental health, too? It is! A less crowded closet means less visual noise and mental burden. You can see what you own, reducing decision fatigue.
This rule is also good for your spending habits, too. Knowing you’ll need to let something go encourages more thoughtful purchases. You’ll buy only what you truly love and need, reducing impulse buys.
Finally, you’ll also have more gratitude for what you own. By consciously choosing what stays, you build a deeper appreciation for your favorite pieces.
Are you on board? OK! Let’s look at how to make this a new habit that sticks with you.
How to Implement “One In, One Out” Successfully
Even though the idea is simple – get rid of something if you buy something new – there’s a lot more to it. Follow these steps and you’ll create a new lifestyle change that is better for you.
Step One: The Initial Closet Reset
For this rule to work, you need a clean base. Clear everything out of your closet and get rid of as much as you can. If you need extra support or help in this step, check out my guide about “how to declutter your closet.” Every step is listed out in that post.
After that’s finished, you can move to step two.
Step Two: Define Your “One-In”
What counts as “one in”? Define it and stick to that definition. Does this rule apply to things you buy, or should it apply to gifts as well? I suggest that anything new you store in your closet – even from other rooms in your house – you should remove one thing. But you can make your own standards.
Step Three: The “One Out” Decision Process
After you decide what your “one in” means, you need to establish how to decide what to get rid of. The easiest answer is to remove the thing that is closest to what you just bought.
For example, if you buy a new little black dress, your current one should be donated.
But this only works if you have a duplicate or near-dupe to donate. If you don’t, then donate or get rid of the item that you don’t wear or love.
Finally, aim to get rid of your items as soon as you bring the new item in. If possible, try to remove the old item before adding the new one to your collection.
Step Four: Set Up A Holding Zone
This is optional. If you don’t need this step, skip it. A holding zone is a designated bag or box where “out” items wait for a week or two before final donation. This gives you time to decide whether you really want to get rid of it (or in what way). And it also helps you put things in a place to go out the door, even if you don’t have time to run to the thrift store right away.
Step Five: Create Designated Out Bins
Where do you place the things you’re taking out of your closet? Don’t create a new pile, because that will become a new magnet for clutter. Instead, have a dedicated bag or bin for donations/discards. This will make it easy for you to drop items in and schedule regular trips to the donation center.
Overcoming Common Challenges
Even though the rule sounds simple and beautiful (because it is), there are a lot of things that can come up and try to derail all your best efforts. Here are the most common roadblocks you might face, and how to deal with them.
- But I Might Need It Someday!” Deal with your scarcity mindset and remember that true essentials are rarely let go of. Focus on your current needs.
- Sentimental Items: Acknowledge their value and try to find alternative storage (memory boxes, digital photos) if the items don’t serve a purpose in the closet.
- “It Was Expensive!” Reframe the sunk cost fallacy. The value is lost if it’s not being used and is just taking up space.
- “I Don’t Have Time!” The rule takes seconds, unlike hours-long decluttering sessions.
- Kids’ Closets: You might have to adjust the rule for fast-growing kids (e.g., one out for every two in, or regular size-based purges).
- Seasonal Items: The rule primarily applies to the current season’s active wardrobe. When rotating, assess items then.
Starting a new habit is tough – I get it! So if you’re feeling this frustration, here are some things you can do to make it easier on yourself.
First, create visual reminders. Place a note in your wallet or on your closet door. Next, start small. Begin with categories that are less emotionally charged, like t-shirts, or socks. Finally, create a reward system. Treat yourself to a small reward after a month of consistent application.
Remember: Prevent Closet Clutter With This Easy Rule
The One In, One Out” rule is the most effective proactive strategy for a permanently organized closet. When you make this a habit, you’ll have less stress, be able to shop smarter, and enjoy using your closet again. Start this today – right now! Forget about how daunting your closet might be. The freedom you’ll feel when you organize it is totally worth it!
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