A new year always brings with it the desire to start fresh, and in order to do that, it's crucial to get rid of anything excessive or neglected that's just wasting space in your closet. Due to the growing interest in minimalism and methods like Konditori, decluttering our closets has become a year-round phenomenon, but that doesn't mean it's gotten any easier. In fact, as we've highlighted before, it can be a pretty emotional process. But we've tried every method under the sun and have racked up some seriously amazing tips over the years. To ensure that you really show your closet who's boss, we've rounded up our absolute favorite methods for you, below!

Scroll down for the ultimate closet-cleaning tips…

In order to give yourself a little motivational kick in the butt, you'll need to be excited for the end goal. Let these sleek minimalist closets inspire you, or check out our favorite closets on Pinterest.

Once you're feeling inspired, you'll need the proper tools to ensure that your organizing is top-notch. Our organization expert Lili Pettit cites these hangers as the most important item for a streamlined closet, and we're also partial to these affordable IKEA finds.

Self-inquiry is a crucial part of cleaning out your closet, and the more honest you are, the higher your success rate. Stylist Brittany Witkin got rid of 100 items simply by asking, Does it serve you? Marie Kondo, on the other hand, ponders whether or not something "sparks joy." But the basics work too: Does it fit? Have you worn it in the last year? No? Then out it goes.

You've likely attempted a major closet cleanout many times before, so to ensure that this time is an even bigger success, opt for a different method than you've used before. Frankly, it's more fun that way, but it can also help you make up for any blind spots in your original process. We suggest these five methods you've never heard before!

If all else fails (or you're just in need of a final push), it's always best to rely on the advice of expert closet-cleaners. As mentioned, our resident organizer Lili Pettit is filled with good ideas, and there's always one of Vogue's ruthless methods. Still need tips? This New York–based organizing company is sure to have you covered.

By Jessica Shciffer

Who What Wear