While we are systematically wearing, laundering, ironing, mending and organizing your own “Rainbow Closet” we will need to simultaneously clean, organize and plan to utilize our accessories.  As we utilize by wearing our accessories, we will also tackle the cleaning and conditioning our accessories as well.

Scarves and Sweaters: Woolen items

Woolen items such as scarves and sweaters can be washed in the clothes washer on gentle, cold water or you can hand wash them.  If possible, air dry these outdoors.  After drying and airing them, I bring them in and iron them for that fresh and new look.  Nicely folded, scarves and sweaters can be tied together with pretty ribbon and then put in a delightful basket for winter storage.

Hats:

Some hats that can be washed:  hand wash in cool water and let dry outdoors. Hats that cannot be washed can be cleaned with a soft, damp cloth. The inside can be freshened with a disinfectant spray before storing. Store hats on a hat rack, hat box or other storage device to keep them clean and in good shape. Make a plan to wear your hats. You will make a statement while validating your investment. I say “Bring Hats Back!” Those hats which you know you will not use can be rehomed be donation or consignment selling. Be sure to check any hat boxes or other storage devices prior to donating so that you don’t loose any items that my have been misplaced in one of these storage devices.

Gloves:

Gloves can be hand washed and dried.  Even leather gloves can be washed and dried. After washing leather gloves, lightly coat with leather protective to keep them softened through the year. Use a clothes pin to attach the pair of gloves so that one of the pair does not get lost or misplaced.

Purses:

Categorize your purses by color similar to the process we used for the “Rainbow Closet.” Check each purse’s pockets thoroughly for any forgotten items. I have found many important items that I had forgotten in a purse. This will save you much time and frustration when you are trying to look for missing items that have been left in a purse. Also, receipts that are often left, may be important for product returns or tax preparation. Once you “clear” a pocket or pouch in a purse, slip in a fresh dryer sheet. This will keep your purse smelling nice when you are ready to use it again.

Cleaning Purses:

Leather purses can be aired out and then conditioned with a good quality leather conditioner.  Fabric purses can be spot cleaned, vacuumed, and aired out on a nice day. Some purses can be washed in the washing machine. Once you have cleaned all of your purses, plan on using them to make certain you are capitalizing on your investment!

Shoes:

Shoes are either comforting to our soul or they are painful to our soul. At this time, you need to wear shoes that fit and are comfortable. Your back and knees will thank you.  Arrange your shoes much like you did the rainbow closet garments.  Group them by colors.  Now check each shoe for needed repairs for renewal.  Leather shoes can be conditioned with the same leather conditioner that you have been using for the other leather items.  Check the heel caps. You can have these replaced or you can replace them yourself by purchasing a pack of heel caps.  Any shoes that need to be repaired can be taken to a cobbler for a repair.  The side of the sole that meets the upper portion of the shoe, often gets scuffed and makes your shoes look worn.  Take a permanent black or brown marker and fill in any scuff marks on the soles.  This will make your shoes look newer longer.  You will get more wear from them and then save more money in the long run.

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