Clutter Busting: Children’s Basic Wardrobe Checklist

It is time to stop mindless spending. Before shopping this year, really do YOUR homework first. It is important to plan, purge, and sort before shopping for new clothes for the 2007-2008 school year.

Plan: What do your children really need?
This past week we went through my daughter and son’s closets. Even though I was under the impression that my son was in desperate need for new pants, I came to find out that he actually only needed 2 pair! His shirts from last season still fit him just fine, so we have no need for those, today anyway! Here is a simple checklist to make sure there are enough clothes in your child’s closet. Keep in mind that this is a very basic wardrobe. From my experience though, people don’t usually err on too little clothes for their children.

Purge:
My daughter on the other hand has tons of shirts, but is in desperate need of pants. To make this more of an enjoyable and rewarding task for my 8 year old, I “bought” her old clothes from her and with this money she will be able to pick out new clothes. All total she earned nearly $50.00. It cost me anywhere from 25 cents to 50 cents per item, but I will be spending that same money regardless (and some). She did not actually receive cash for this, rather credit for when we go shopping. In turn, I donated these items to the Goodwill store. All in all… a win-win situation!

What is your budget?
Be honest with yourself in regards to how much you can spend and stick to it! It certainly helps when you know for certain what your child really needs. If your budget does not fit your children’s needs there are other alternatives. Check out ebay for some amazing name brand values! In addition, there are many second hand stores that not only offer gently used, but also some new items. Also, remember that hand-me-downs are our friends!

Do they need it all right now?
Sometimes parents get so wrapped up into the marketing of back-to-school shopping that they seem to think a whole new wardrobe is necessary in the beginning of the year. Nonsense! Many of the items that are being marketed now; will be on sale come the middle of September.

Sort:
Make sure when the clothes go into the closets and dressers that they are sorted properly. Children will tend to only wear the clothes that are easily accessible.

The first defense in riasing children to be good stewards of their money, is by showing them by example. Have a wonderful new school year!

Betsy

Download the Basic Wardrobe Checklist for Children