Ready for a Dream Closet in Your Hillsborough Home? Declutter First for Best Results

If you're like many homeowners in Hillsborough, you've been daydreaming about a closet that doesn’t just store your clothes—but showcases them. You’re envisioning a space that’s beautifully organized, calm, and totally clutter-free. A true dream closet in Hillsborough, right?

Well, we’ve got great news: Carolina Closets Plus is here to make that dream come true! But first—before we start sketching layouts and picking out finishes—there’s one essential step you don’t want to skip…

Decluttering.

Yes, we said it. We know it’s not the most glamorous part of the journey, but trust us—decluttering your closet first is the secret to unlocking the full potential of your custom closet. Think of it as clearing the stage before the big show.

Let’s break down why this matters and how you can do it like a pro (without totally losing your mind in the process).

Why Decluttering Is Key Before Building Your Dream Closet in Hillsborough

Before we even take measurements or sketch out layout options, decluttering helps you figure out:

• What items truly belong in your wardrobe

• How much space you’ll realistically need for storage

• What kinds of features will support your lifestyle (do you need more drawers, hanging rods, or space for accessories?)

When you declutter, you’re not just “making space”—you’re setting the stage for a custom closet that’s tailored, efficient, and totally you.

Think of it like this: you wouldn’t install brand-new kitchen cabinets without knowing what dishes, pans, or gadgets need to fit inside, right? The same logic applies to building your custom closet Hillsborough residents rave about.

Step-by-Step Guide to Decluttering Your Dream Closet Hillsborough Like a Pro

Decluttering doesn’t have to be overwhelming. In fact, with the right approach, it can be super satisfying! Here’s a step-by-step guide that’s manageable and (dare we say?) even fun.

1. Take Everything Out

Yes—everything. It’s the only way to get a clear picture of what you’re working with. Lay it all out on your bed, floor, or even the hallway. When it’s all in front of you, you'll start to realize how much stuff has been hiding in the shadows.

2. Sort Into Four Piles

Create four categories:

• Keep – You wear it, love it, and it fits your current lifestyle

• Donate – Still in good condition but not your style or size anymore

• Toss/Recycle – Worn out, stained, or damaged beyond repair

• Seasonal/Store Elsewhere – Bulky sweaters in summer? Pack ’em up until winter

3. Try the “One-Year Rule”

If you haven’t worn it in the last 12 months, chances are... you won’t. This little rule helps cut through the “maybe someday” thinking that leads to cluttered chaos.

4. Be Honest About Your Lifestyle

Still hanging onto suits from a previous job? Heels from a past fashion phase? If your life has changed (and whose hasn’t?), your closet should reflect where you are now—not where you were five years ago.

5. Declutter Accessories and Shoes Too

It’s not just clothes! Go through:

• Shoes

• Belts

• Scarves

• Jewelry

• Bags

• Hats

Accessories take up space too, and organizing them properly requires dedicated features in your custom closet.

Decluttering Your Closet: What to Keep, Donate, or Toss

Stuck on a few items? Ask yourself:

• Do I feel confident wearing this?

• Does it fit well right now?

• Would I buy it again today?

Now if the answer is “no,” let it go.

✔️Donate items that are still in good shape but no longer serve you. Local donation centers in Hillsborough like TROSA Thrift or The Women’s Center of Chapel Hill will gladly take your gently used items.

✔️Recycle damaged clothing—there are drop-off bins throughout the Triangle for textile recycling.

✔️Toss only when necessary (we’re big fans of sustainability!).

Closet Organization Tips During the Decluttering Process

Once you’ve narrowed down your wardrobe, it’s time to start thinking about how to keep it organized as your dream closet Hillsborough installation comes to life.

Here are a few tips to keep things tidy before and during your custom closet project:

• Use clear bins to temporarily store sorted items

• Label boxes so you don’t lose track of what's what

• Use garment racks to hang clothes you want to keep wrinkle-free during installation

• Store seasonal items in under-bed bins or linen closets until your new closet is ready

• Group items by category (shirts, pants, accessories) so our designers can assess your storage needs accurately

Bonus tip: Snap a quick photo of your favorite outfit categories (or even your entire wardrobe!)—it’s a helpful visual reference during our design consultation.

How Decluttering Maximizes Your Dream Closet Hillsborough's Potential

Once you’ve decluttered, it becomes crystal clear: you’re not just building a closet—you’re creating a lifestyle upgrade. Here’s what happens when you start with a clean slate:

✔️More Space, More Style

You’ll be amazed how spacious your closet feels when you’re only keeping items you love and actually wear. That gives us room to include style-enhancing features like:

• Backlit display shelves for shoes and bags

• Built-in drawers and cubbies for a boutique-like feel

• Custom jewelry organizers that make accessorizing fun again

✔️A Truly Custom Fit

Our designers at Carolina Closets Plus create solutions based on your actual belongings—not a guess. That means the final product reflects your wardrobe, your lifestyle, and your needs.

✔️Less Clutter, More Calm

Say goodbye to decision fatigue! When everything has a place, and that place is beautifully designed, getting dressed becomes a joy—not a chore.

Real Talk: Why Hillsborough Homeowners Love Working With Us

We're not just closet people—we’re closet dreamers, doers, and designers. For more than 30 years, Carolina Closets Plus has been transforming homes across Hillsborough and the greater Triangle area with tailored solutions that blend form and function beautifully.

Our team is local, friendly, and obsessed with creating spaces that make your everyday routine smoother and more stylish.

Just check out these ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Google Reviews:

“I wish I had done this years ago!”

Dana W. had her builder-grade walk-in closet upgraded and was blown away by how easy and affordable the whole process was. From realistic 3D renderings to a flawless install, Dana says, “I’m a fashionista and I need quality—and this delivered!”

“They made my small space flexible, bright, and beautiful.”

Cynthia G. lives in a cozy cottage and needed her small office to double as a guest room. A Murphy bed and custom design later, and now it’s a multifunctional dream space. She raves, “It was such a pleasure working with the team!”

“We got more storage than we ever imagined.”

Steve W. came back to us for the second time—this round to optimize his pantry and turn two cramped closets into something spacious and efficient. “They helped us stay on budget and made our home more livable,” he says.

“From start to finish, it was fantastic.”

Jessica M. had us design closets for her master, pantry, and two bedrooms. The verdict? “Great experience. We love our new closets. Highly recommend!”

“They worked magic in my laundry room.”

Pam B. was tired of the clutter and out-of-reach shelving in her laundry space. Simone came in, took careful measurements, listened to every detail—and transformed the room. Pam says, “I urge you to give them a call. You will not be disappointed.”

Let’s Create Your Dream Closet Hillsborough—It Starts With a Clean Slate

At Carolina Closets Plus, we believe your closet should inspire you—not stress you out. That’s why we encourage every homeowner to start with a good declutter before diving into design.

Decluttering sets you up for success. It helps us craft a layout that works with your lifestyle, not against it. And it ensures that every drawer, shelf, and hanger is working overtime to keep your space beautiful and organized.

Whether you’re starting from scratch or ready to overhaul a packed walk-in, let’s team up and turn your cluttered closet into your dream closet Hillsborough residents will envy.

Ready to Get Started?

Book your free consultation now and let’s bring your dream closet to life! Our expert designers will guide you through every step—from decluttering tips to the final custom install. We’re here to help you make space for what matters most.

Proudly serving Hillsborough, Chapel Hill, Burlington, Cary, and the surrounding North Carolina communities.

Contact Us Today to book your appointment!