Decluttering Before Your Move

Published: August 01, 2024

Moving to a new home is a fantastic opportunity to start fresh, but before you can enjoy that clean slate, there’s one important task to tackle: decluttering. It might not sound glamorous, but getting rid of things you no longer need or use can make your move smoother, less stressful, and even more exciting. Here’s a guide to help you declutter before your big move.

Start Early

Decluttering isn’t something you can rush through at the last minute. To make the process more manageable, start early. Begin by setting aside a few hours each week to tackle different areas of your home. The more time you give yourself, the less overwhelming the task will be. Plus, starting early means you can be more thoughtful about what to keep and what to let go of.

Break It Down

Instead of trying to declutter your entire home in one go, break the task into smaller, more manageable chunks. Focus on one room, closet, or even one category of items at a time. For example, you could start with your wardrobe, then move on to kitchen gadgets, and so on. This approach helps you stay organized and prevents the process from becoming too overwhelming.

Use the Four-Box Method

A handy trick for decluttering is the four-box method. Grab four boxes or bags and label them as follows: Keep, Donate, Sell, and Trash. As you go through your items, place each one into one of these boxes. This method helps you make quick decisions about what to do with each item and keeps you focused on the task at hand when decluttering.

Be Ruthless When Decluttering

When deciding what to keep and what to let go of, be honest with yourself. If you haven’t used an item in the past year, it’s likely you won’t miss it. Ask yourself if the item still serves a purpose or if it brings you joy. If not, it might be time to say goodbye. Remember, the goal is to make your new space feel fresh and uncluttered, so don’t be afraid to part with things that no longer fit into your life.

Sort Through Sentimental Items

Sentimental items can be the hardest to part with, but they can also be the most rewarding to sort through. Take your time with these items and consider taking photos of them if you’re not ready to let them go. This way, you can still cherish the memories without taking up physical space in your new home. Alternatively, you might choose to pass them on to family members or friends who will appreciate them.

Donate or Sell Unwanted Items

Donating or selling items you no longer need is a great way to give them a new life. Many charities and organizations accept donations of gently used items, and there are plenty of online platforms where you can sell things you no longer need. Not only will this help you lighten your load, but it can also be a great way to make a little extra cash for your move.

Handle Paperwork and Documents

Don’t forget to sort through your paperwork and documents. Shred old documents that you no longer need, and organize important paperwork that you’ll need to keep. Consider digitalizing important documents to save space and make them easier to access. A clean, organized file system will make your move less stressful and ensure you don’t lose important information.

Keep a Moving Essentials Box

As you are decluttering, set aside a box of essential items you’ll need right away in your new home. This might include things like toiletries, a change of clothes, basic kitchen supplies, and important documents. Having these essentials easily accessible will make your first few days in your new place much more comfortable.

By decluttering before your move, you’ll make the transition to your new home smoother and more enjoyable. With a bit of planning, organization, and a positive attitude, you’ll be well on your way to starting fresh in your new space. Happy moving!

For more information or help with your move, visit UNITS® Moving and Portable Storage of Cincinnati or call (513) 506-3223.