How to Declutter Before Moving: Decluttering Tips & Checklist

Moving can feel overwhelming, the thought of packing up your entire life is stressful enough. But how to declutter before moving can make it so much easier. Not only will you have less to pack, but you’ll also feel more organized and ready for your new home. So, how do you even begin? Let’s dive into some tips for decluttering before moving.

Studies show that the average American household moves 11 times in their lifetime. Each move brings a new set of challenges, but decluttering before moving house can help reduce those challenges significantly.

Decluttering tips & checklist

1. Start with one room at a time

Decluttering an entire house can feel overwhelming, but breaking it down into smaller, manageable chunks helps you stay focused. Start with one room and don’t move on to the next until you’ve completed the first.

This keeps you motivated and allows for a sense of accomplishment. If you’re feeling extra stress from the process, how to declutter before moving can help you keep things more manageable and ensure you’re not overwhelmed by all the tasks at once.

2. Be honest about what you need

The hardest part of decluttering is deciding what to keep and what to toss. The rule of thumb is simple: if you haven’t used it in the last year, you likely don’t need it. The more honest you are about your possessions, the easier it will be to part with things. Remember, the goal is a cleaner, more organized space, not just a reorganization of clutter.

3. Sort Into 3 Piles: Keep, Donate, Toss

Make your decisions easier by categorizing your items into three groups:

Keep: Items you use regularly or absolutely love.
Donate: Items that are still in good condition but no longer serve you.
Toss: Things that are broken, outdated, or have no practical use.

This method not only simplifies the process but also ensures you’re clear on what to do with each item.

4. Work in Short Bursts

Decluttering can become exhausting if you try to do too much at once. Set a timer for 20-30 minutes of focused work, then take a short break. This will help keep your energy levels up and prevent burnout. Small bursts of effort lead to greater productivity and less overwhelm.

5. Don’t Forget Hidden Spaces

Often, clutter accumulates in places we don’t see regularly, like drawers, closets, and storage rooms. These areas are easy to ignore, but they can become some of the most cluttered spots in your home.

According to a study by the National Association of Professional Organizers, the average American spends 55 minutes a day looking for lost items. Imagine how much more organized and productive your life will be with a fresh start in your new home. Make sure to open up those hidden spaces and declutter them as well. It’s these little spaces that can often make a big difference in the overall organization of your home.

6. Digitize Paperwork

Paperwork tends to pile up quickly bills, receipts, forms, magazines and it can quickly become overwhelming. Instead of letting it clutter your counters and drawers, scan important documents and store them digitally. Shred or recycle what you no longer need. Going paperless not only reduces clutter but also helps the environment and makes finding important files easier.

7. Use Storage Bins for Keepsakes

Sentimental items, like photos, childhood toys, or family heirlooms, can be hard to part with. Instead of letting these items take over your space, use storage bins or boxes to keep them organized and tucked away. Label the bins clearly, so you know what’s inside, and store them in a designated spot like the attic, basement, or closet.

8. Sell Items for Extra Cash

If you have items that are still in good condition but you no longer need them, consider selling them. Platforms like Facebook Marketplace, Craigslist, or Poshmark can help you turn your old items into cash. Selling is a great way to get rid of things while putting some money back in your pocket, which could even help with the cost of professional moving services.

Decluttering Checklist

Use this comprehensive checklist to stay on track during your decluttering process. It covers key areas of your home and breaks down tasks into specific steps.

1. Kitchen:

Clear out old food and spices: Check expiration dates and toss anything that’s past its prime.
Donate or sell duplicate utensils or appliances: If you have extra kitchen gadgets or tools you never use, consider donating them.
Organize pantry and cupboards: Group similar items together and get rid of anything you no longer need. Consider donating canned goods you don’t plan to use.

2. Living Room:

Sort through books, DVDs, and electronics: Donate or sell items you no longer watch or need.
Declutter shelves and coffee tables: Get rid of knick-knacks or items that don’t add value or serve a purpose.
Donate or sell furniture you no longer need: If you’re upgrading or simply don’t use a piece, now’s the time to let it go.

3. Bedroom:

Go through clothes, shoes, and accessories: Donate items you haven’t worn in a year or that no longer fit.
Declutter nightstands and under-bed storage: Remove anything that doesn’t belong or is taking up unnecessary space.
Donate old linens and bedding: If your sheets or blankets are worn out or you have extras you don’t need, it’s time to donate or toss them.

4. Bathroom:

Dispose of expired products (medicine, makeup, etc.): Check the expiration dates on your cosmetics, medications, and lotions, and dispose of anything that’s no longer safe to use.
Clear out old towels and washcloths: Donate or discard worn-out towels that no longer serve their purpose.
Organize bathroom cabinets: Go through your bathroom drawers and shelves to declutter and make room for the items you actually use.

5. Garage/Storage:

Get rid of broken tools or equipment: If something is damaged beyond repair, it’s time to say goodbye.
Donate items you no longer use (camping gear, holiday decorations, etc.): If you haven’t used something in years, it’s taking up valuable space. Donate or sell it.
Organize and label storage bins: Group similar items together and label them clearly so you can find them easily when you need them.

Conclusion:

Decluttering before moving doesn’t have to be a stressful task. By breaking it down into manageable steps and staying organized, you can create a smooth transition to your new home. If you’re looking for expert help with your move, Fairway Movers is here to make your relocation as smooth as possible. Get in touch with us today for a stress-free moving experience!

By following these decluttering tips and this decluttering checklist, you’ll be well on your way to a less stressful moving process. Whether you decide to handle it yourself with a DIY move vs professional movers, or hire professional moving services to lighten the load, you’ll feel ready and organized for the next chapter of your life. After moving, make sure to check out the essential things to do after moving to ensure your new space is fully settled

FAQs:

How do I start decluttering before moving?

Start by tackling one room at a time. Sort items into Keep, Donate, and Toss piles. Be honest about what you actually need and use.

What items should I prioritize when decluttering before moving?

Focus on items you haven’t used in a year or duplicates, like clothes, kitchen gadgets, and expired products.

Should I hire professional movers for my decluttering and move?

If you want a stress-free move, professional moving services can help with packing and transporting. Otherwise, consider a DIY move if you’re on a budget.

How can I organize my new home after moving?

Start with essential rooms like the kitchen and bedroom, then unpack and organize using labeled storage bins to keep things tidy.