Is it just me, or is it absolutely incredible how many itty bitty clothes one tiny person could go through in such a short time? The other day I spent some time sorting through all of my daughter's outgrown clothes (newborn - 9 months) and figuring out storage solutions. So today I thought why not share my system with all of you?
1. Launder EVERYTHING
Before you even get started organizing, make sure everything has been properly washed with warm water and mild soap (I use the baby detergent). Taking the time refresh tose whites and treat any stains. Sure, you'll have to wash everything again before use but the longer that the clothes remain discolored or stained, the harder it will be for them to get back to their original beautiful form. This is so important no matter if your choice is to keep or donate them.
2. Sort by Size
Sort each article of clothing by putting them into piles based on size. My categories are newborn, 0-3 month, 3-6 month, 6-9 month, 9-12 month, 12-18 month, 18-24 month, and then 2T and on. But use your best judgement as well. Go by the labeled size, but also keep in mind that baby clothe sizing isn't a science and some clothes may actually fit a size up or down from what it's actually marked as. I also decided to sort of the blankets, wraps, towels, toys, socks, headbands, mitts, and other accessories to be tucked away easily.
3. Decide Which Items Are Worth Keeping
This is the time to purge! Let's be honest, baby clothes take a beating, and while it is VERY tempting to want to hold onto every piece, some things just aren't worth saving. Start at your first pile and work your way up, going through each pulling out anything stained or worn out, and if you are keeping them, even what you don't love. Place them all in a bag or box right away so that they are out of your way and easy to dispose of.
4. Folding Time
This is the most gruesome part of the whole process! So turn on some music to jam to or your favorite podcast. Then fold by size into piles. I like to do this in categories again: sweaters/jackets, shirts, pants, pjs, outfits, swim suits, long sleeve onesies, and short-sleeve onesies. Trust me, it's going to be SO much easier to put away for whoever you're giving to or later for yourself.
5. Bag, Label, and Store
Tuck you neatly folded clothes by size and type into storage bags this could be vacuum-sealed bags or even extra-large Ziploc bags. Really any heavy-duty reusable bag will work. It will keep out the dust, keep the clothes fresh, and squeeze the clothes together to save some more space. Don't forget to label it all! Take a Sharpie to the bags and write down exactly what they are or even tuck a paper label in the bag before you seal it up. Now you are ready for the last organization process! Pack all of those bags into large storage containers starting with the smallest size and label the boxes. This will allow you to find exactly what you need at a glance. And either donate or store in a cool, dry environment.
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