How to Organize Your Accessories: A Practical Guide

Do you find yourself overwhelmed by a growing collection of accessories? Whether it’s scarves that seem to multiply every winter or a shoe collection that’s getting a bit out of hand, organizing your accessories can feel like a daunting task. But don’t worry, we’ve got you covered with some simple tips to help you sort, store, and keep everything in order.

1. Decide What to Keep, Donate, or Discard

The first step to organizing your accessories is to figure out what’s worth keeping, what could be donated, and what should be thrown away. To begin, pull out all your accessories from drawers, bags, and shelves, and spread them out on a clean surface where you can easily see everything. This will make it easier to assess your collection and sort through it.

Create three piles:

• Keep: These are the items that fit with your current style, are in good condition, and are things you actually use. If you haven’t worn an accessory in the last six months but think you might soon, it’s probably worth holding on to.
• Donate: For accessories that are still in good condition but no longer suit you, consider donating them. You can give them to friends or family, or donate them to a charity like the British Heart Foundation.
• Discard: Broken or worn-out accessories that can’t be repaired should be tossed. Be sure to check with your local recycling center about what can be recycled to avoid waste.

2. Give Everything a Quick Clean

Once you’ve sorted through your accessories, it’s time to give your storage areas a quick refresh. Wipe down drawers and shelves to remove dust and dirt. For added freshness, you can use drawer sachets to keep your items smelling great and ward off moths.

3. Proper Storage for Your Accessories

Now that you’ve sorted everything, it’s time to store them properly. Here are a few great storage options for various types of accessories:

• Storage Bags for Knitwear: Perfect for hats, scarves, and gloves, these bags protect delicate items from moths and fabric snags. Ensure that your accessories are laid flat or neatly folded to maximize space in the bag.
• Drawer Organizers: These are excellent for dividing your accessories into sections so that each item has its own spot. You’ll find it easier to grab what you need when it’s neatly organized.
• Storage Boxes: Ideal for shoes, handbags, and other larger accessories, storage boxes keep your items safe and stylish. Look for strong, flat-pack boxes that can be stored under your bed when not in use. Lining them with acid-free tissue paper will protect your items from discoloration over time.
• Hanging Storage for Scarves and Belts: Hanging organizers can be a great way to store scarves and belts in your wardrobe. They help save space and keep these accessories easily visible. You can even use hanging sachets to protect your scarves from moths while keeping them fresh.
• Shoe Boxes with Clear Windows: For an elegant, organized solution to storing shoes, consider using fabric shoe boxes with a clear window. This makes it easy to quickly locate the pair you need.

4. Organizing Your Jewellery

Jewellery is often a tricky item to store due to its small size and delicate nature. Here are some ways to keep your jewellery in order:

• Jewellery Boxes: These are ideal for storing all types of jewellery in one place, keeping them protected and easy to access.
• Jewellery Stands or Hangers: If you prefer to display your jewellery, a stand or hanger works well on a dresser or in your closet. It’s a great way to keep necklaces, bracelets, and earrings tangle-free.
• Jewellery Dishes: Keep small, everyday jewellery close at hand with a jewellery dish on your bedside table or in your bathroom.

You can also organize your jewellery by type, metal, or occasion, so you’ll always know where to find your gold earrings or silver necklace.

5. Storing Scarves

Scarves come in all shapes and sizes, and organizing them can be a challenge. Here’s how you can keep them tidy:

• Storage Boxes or Bags: Fold your scarves neatly to prevent creases, placing heavier ones at the bottom and lighter ones on top.
• Hanging in the Wardrobe: If you prefer to hang your scarves, fold them over a hanger bar. Use hanger extensions to conserve space and keep them visible. For extra protection, you can use sachets to keep your scarves fresh and free of moths.

6. Storing Hats

Hats can be difficult to organize because of their various shapes and sizes. Here’s how to store them:

• Small Hats: Woolly hats and beanies can be stored in knitwear storage bags, either with your scarves or separately, depending on your collection size.
• Baseball Caps: Store these in a designated drawer to keep them in good shape.
• Larger Hats: Bigger hats, such as sun hats or statement pieces, can be stored flat in a large storage box to maintain their shape.

7. Choosing the Right Storage Solutions

Selecting the right storage options is key to maintaining your accessories in good condition. Poor quality boxes or bags can lead to discoloration or damage, while well-made solutions protect your items and help keep them organized.

By choosing the right storage solutions, you not only keep your accessories in top shape but also maintain a tidy, efficient space. Consider investing in high-quality items that will serve you long-term.

Conclusion

Organizing your accessories may seem overwhelming at first, but with the right strategies and storage solutions, you can create a space that’s both functional and stylish. Start by sorting through what you have, then invest in proper storage to keep your items protected and easy to access. With a little planning, you’ll have an organized collection that makes finding your favorite pieces a breeze.