From Clutter to Cash: Closet Organization and Selling Clothes You Don’t Wear
What will I be doing this week? Something that’s been on my to-do list for a long time. I really need to go through my clothes drawers and closet and just get rid of things I no longer use. There’s nothing better than opening your closet and actually seeing what you own. When everything is organized, it’s easier to get dressed, easier to know what you need (or don’t need), and easier to feel good about your style.
But here’s the best part: organizing your closet doesn’t just create space—it can also put money back in your pocket. Those clothes, shoes, and accessories you no longer wear could be just what someone else is looking for.
Put money back in your pocket
Clothes, shoes, and accessories that you no longer need or want could be perfect for someone else
Step 1: Declutter with Intention
Closet organization starts with a good old-fashioned cleanout. Pull everything out and sort it into three piles:
Keep: Items you wear often and love.
Maybe: Things you’re unsure about—revisit these at the end.
Sell/Donate: Clothes, shoes, and accessories that no longer fit, are out of style, or haven’t been worn.
If you haven’t worn something in a year, it’s probably time to let it go. I’m a big culprit of doing this. “When I lose 20 pounds, I’ll be able to wear these jeans again.” It never happens, and they still sit in my closet to this day. If you haven’t already used that item, chances are you won’t later on either.
Step 2: Organize What You Keep
Once you’ve trimmed down your wardrobe, it’s time to make your closet work for you.
Hang clothes by type (dresses, tops, pants).
Use slim hangers to maximize space, if you have them. I wouldn’t specifically go out and buy hangers if you have enough, but if you need to get more, then try to buy ones that aren’t so bulky.
Store accessories in baskets or drawer dividers.
Keep seasonal items separate so you can see what you actually wear most often.
An organized closet makes getting dressed stress-free and helps you appreciate the clothes you truly enjoy.
Organize what you keep
Hang clothes by type (dresses, tops, pants)
Step 3: Sell Your Gently Used Clothing
Instead of letting your “no longer love” pile gather dust, turn it into cash! Here are some of the best places to sell clothes online and locally:
Online Selling Apps & Marketplaces
Poshmark and Poshmark Canada – Perfect for trendy and brand-name clothing. Ideal for a more mature audience.
Depop – A hit with Gen Z buyers looking for vintage or streetwear.
eBay and eBay Canada – Great for designer, collectible, or higher-value pieces.
Facebook Marketplace – Convenient for local buyers, no shipping required.
I’ve used Facebook Marketplace for my area myself, and I know several other people who have used it to buy furniture. I’ve used it to give away a number of books I had. Check out some of these sites if you have things to sell, but don’t forget where you are shipping to. There may be customs duties, and there will be tariffs on items going or coming from the United States, too.
Consignment Shops
Local consignment stores will sell your items for you in exchange for a commission—ideal for designer or current styles.
Thrift Apps & Sites
ThredUp – Send in a “clean out” bag, and they’ll handle the resale.
The RealReal – Specializes in luxury and designer goods.
Turn it into cash
Take the clothes you no longer love and sell online to make some extra cash
Quick Local Options
Garage Sales – Great for moving lots of items quickly.
Clothing Swaps – Trade pieces with friends or community groups.
Step 4: Donate What Doesn’t Sell
Not every item will be a hit online. Donating gently used clothing to local charities, shelters, or thrift shops ensures your clothes find a new home and help someone in need.
This channel is all about saving money in small ways, but don’t forget that some ways of saving also have mental health benefits.
Organizing your closet and moving items along, either by selling them to make a bit of extra cash or by giving them to someone else who needs them, reduces stress and overwhelm, gives you a sense of accomplishment, supports mental clarity by feeling lighter and calmer after decluttering, and encourages mindful spending. This makes you more intentional about future purchases and prevents the guilt or overwhelm that can come from overspending or overstuffing your closet.
Final Thoughts
Organizing your closet is about more than tidiness—it’s about clarity, confidence, and sometimes even cash. By decluttering and selling what you no longer need, you’ll not only create space but also make a little money or help someone else.
Your closet should only hold items you love and wear. Everything else? It’s ready for its next chapter.