Moving to a new home can feel like a daunting task—but it’s even tougher when a cluttered home is a factor. Decluttering before you move not only means fewer boxes to pack and unpack, but it will also relieve stress costs, and time. No matter if you’re moving across town, or downsizing your space, the more you can shed leaves you with a smooth transition.
As opposed to boxing everything up, let your move be a filter. Only take what you really want to keep. Less boxes, lighter weight, and less mentally to carry is win win win. Decluttering is not about losing stuff. It’s about clarity. The less you take with you, the more liberated you will feel when you take a step into your new house.
Start Early and Make a Plan
Decluttering is not something you want to do at the last minute. If you have a few months to get organized, this is even better. Take the time to think about how you would like your new space to be set up and what you want in that space. You can build a plan by room and create an organized vision that will guide you on what to keep and what to leave behind.
Decluttering before you move is not only a time-saver, it is a chance to “reset” your own space. The more organized your belongings are, the less of a “chore” unpacking will be, and you’ll feel like you are setting up a new chapter in your life.
Tackle Low-Stress Areas First
Start with spaces that are used less frequently like the garage, storage closets, or guest rooms. This gets you warmed up for places with heavier emotional elements, like bedrooms or kitchens. Separate your items into piles of “keep,” “donate,” “sell” or “toss.” You can have a yard sale or list things online, on sites like Facebook Marketplace, to earn some extra cash.
Decluttering Tips for Moving
- Pack as you go: You can box up anything you’re keeping but won’t need before the move.
- Take pictures: Before and after pictures could inspire you, and help measure progress.
- Set appointments for decluttering: You should aim for 1-3 hours a week of decluttering.
- Be selective: Get rid of towels that just can’t be cleaned, expired pantry items, and broken appliances.
Decluttering also makes things easier for the professionals. When you’re ready, consider hiring the best movers in Philadelphia to make your streamlined move even smoother.
Decluttering for Downsizing
Decluttering is a must if you are moving to a smaller residence. Think about your new floor plan and your new storage options. Avoid renting a storage unit for those things you “might use someday.” When you downsize, it can be a useful time to freshen your lifestyle and focus on the things that matter. Decluttering is extremely important when downsizing. You want to focus on keeping the things that you use and things that you love.
Consider how each item meets your new lifestyle and space. Get rid of duplicates, oversized home furnishings, and items that have little real value. A decluttered move minimizes the stress of entering your new, smaller home, and makes it easier, cleaner, and more sustainable to start fresh enjoyably in your new home!
What Not to Keep
Follow these four “don’ts”:
- Don’t keep anything you haven’t utilized in a one-year’s time.
- Don’t keep anything you wouldn’t purchase again.
- Don’t keep anything that does not spark joy.
- Don’t hold onto possessions out of guilt or obligation.
Final Advice
Decluttering prior to moving provides you with a clean slate and one more way to feel in control of the moving process. Additionally, it helps with moving-related stress, saves you money on packing supplies, and will enhance your ability to move purposefully. For the most seamless and efficient transition, Stellar Movers is one of Philadelphia, PA’s trusted moving companies.
Make sure to start early, stay consistent, and be intentional about only bringing the things that hold meaning for you into your new space. Ready to make your move stress-free? Let Stellar Movers, the trusted Philadelphia, PA moving company, handle the heavy lifting—get your free quote today!