Essential Tips For Efficiently Decluttering Your Home Before a Move

Comprehensive Guide To Decluttering: Where to Start & What to Get Rid Of

Moving can be a real hassle, but taking a little time to declutter before you pack up can really make a difference. Going through your things and deciding what to keep or toss not only lightens your load but also makes packing way easier. Plus, there’s something refreshing about walking into a new place without all that extra stuff weighing you down.

Decluttering isn’t just about getting rid of old clothes or forgotten knick-knacks; it’s a chance to think about what really matters to you. Everyone has different reasons for holding onto certain items, whether it’s memories, practicality, or simply the space they take up. In this post, We’ll share some tips and tricks to navigate the decluttering process. Let’s get started on making your move as easy as possible!

Why Decluttering Before a Move Can Save You Time, Money & Stress

When it comes to moving, decluttering becomes a game changer. Taking the time to go through your belongings and let go of things you don’t need can make a world of difference. Not only will you have less to pack, which speeds up the whole process, but you’ll also save some cash on moving costs.

If you’re selling your home, a tidy, clutter-free space looks much more inviting to potential buyers. A well-organized home can create a great first impression and might even help your place sell faster. So, whether you’re packing up for a new adventure or trying to sell your house, decluttering is a smart move that can lighten your load and make the transition feel a lot smoother.

Some Questions To Ask Yourself Before You Start Decluttering

Before you make an inventory of the things you will either keep or not, ask yourself some questions:

• What do I want my new place to look like? 
• What do I do with the things I am getting rid of? Selling, tossing, donating? If you’re tossing, are you just putting stuff out for garbage pickup, or do you need to hire a junk removal company to haul heavy items away? If you are donating, to which charities?
• Do you have the time and energy to sell your unwanted items? If yes, how? Through what channels? 
• Are you giving any stuff away for free? Maybe invite friends and family to stop by to clear stuff away.

How To Declutter Your Home Efficiently

We recommend you create and follow a timeline. In case you are moving, decluttering and packing should go hand in hand. We suggest you start the packing process five weeks before the move and start decluttering then. Another good idea is to come up with a decluttering plan. Some items, like big pieces of furniture, or fragile items like antiques will take more planning to remove. 

Start Sorting: Toss, Recycle Or Donate?

We recommend sorting your belongings into toss, recycle, or donate categories, as it will make your moving easier.

• Go Through Your Belongings Room By Room: Get an idea of how much you’ve got and make notes of what can go.
• Do a Closet Purge: If it doesn’t fit, is out of style, and/or you haven’t worn it in a year, get rid of it. 
• Get Rid Of Items You Wouldn’t Buy Again: Ask yourself whether you would go out and spend money on it if you didn’t already have it. If you wouldn’t, you likely don’t need it.
• Make Donation Pickup Arrangements: If you know you’ll be donating big items like furniture and rugs, schedule a pickup ahead of time so you can be sure you have an organization pick them up. 

The 4 Common Decluttering Mistakes To Avoid Before Moving

Saying goodbye to things you’ve loved and had for years is not easy, but just because it’s been in your home for a long time, or you’ve used it at some point, doesn’t mean it currently has any value. Here is a list of “don’t” to go by:

• Don’t keep anything you haven’t used in a year and don’t plan to use it anytime soon. It might seem a little extreme to some of us, so you can stretch a year into what makes you feel more comfortable, but the point is, if you’re not using it and don’t plan to, why have it?

• Don’t keep anything that doesn’t make you happy. If it doesn’t spark joy, why keep it? 

• Don’t keep anything just because you think you should. Don’t let the guilt guide you.

How Decluttering Can Make Your Move Smoother

Once you’ve cleared out the clutter, packing will become a whole lot easier. With fewer items to deal with, organizing your boxes and labeling them is much simpler, which can save you a ton of time on moving day. Plus, you’ll have a clearer idea of where your essentials are during the transition, making it less stressful.

If you’re feeling overwhelmed, finding a reliable moving company in Phoenix can really lighten the load. At A Wise Move, we’re here to help you with whatever you need to make your move a breeze, whether you’re moving locally or long distance. Contact us today, and let’s chat about how we can make your move as smooth as possible!

FAQs

How long before my move should I start decluttering?

It’s a good idea to start decluttering at least five weeks ahead of your move. This gives you plenty of time to go through your stuff and make decisions without feeling rushed. Trust me, it makes a world of difference! If you need assistance with your upcoming move, whether it’s packing, storage, or the actual move itself, don’t hesitate to contact us at A Wise Move. 

What are some common mistakes to avoid when decluttering?

When you’re decluttering, steer clear of holding onto items you haven’t touched in over a year or things that just don’t spark joy. Also, don’t let guilt keep you from letting go. Focus on the items that truly mean something to you!

What should I do with items I want to keep but can’t fit in my new place?

If you have things you want to hold onto but can’t fit in your new home, think about using our storage services in Phoenix. Renting a storage unit gives you a great way to keep your belongings safe while you decide what to do with them later. Contact us at 623-939-9473 to help you with your items storage.