12 Tips for Decluttering Before Your Move

Published: September 01, 2024

Moving to a new home is a chance for a fresh start, but it can also be a daunting task, especially when it comes to packing up all your belongings. One of the best ways to make your move smoother and more manageable is by decluttering before you start packing. Here are some practical tips to help you declutter effectively and make your moving process less stressful.

1. Start Decluttering Early

One of the most important tips for decluttering before a move is to start early. The sooner you begin, the less overwhelming it will be. Ideally, start decluttering at least a month before your move. This gives you ample time to sort through your belongings without feeling rushed.

2. Create a Plan

Before diving into decluttering, create a plan. Decide which areas of your home you will tackle first and set a schedule. Breaking the process down into smaller tasks makes it more manageable and ensures you don’t miss any areas.

3. Sort by Category

Instead of decluttering room by room, try sorting by category. For example, gather all your clothes from every room and sort them at once. This approach helps you see how much of each item you have and makes it easier to decide what to keep and what to let go.

4. Use the Four-Box Method

The four-box method is an effective way to organize your process. Label four boxes as follows: Keep, Donate, Sell, and Trash. As you go through your belongings, place each item into one of the four boxes. This method helps you make quick decisions and keeps you organized.

5. Ask Yourself Key Questions

When deciding whether to keep or get rid of an item, ask yourself key questions:

• Have I used this item in the past year?
• Does this item have sentimental value or practical use?
• Would I buy this item again?

If you answer “no” to any of these questions, it might be time to part with the item.

6. Declutter Sentimental Items Last

Sentimental items can be the hardest to declutter, so save these for last. By the time you get to these items, you’ll be in a decluttering mindset, and it will be easier to make decisions about what to keep.

7. Digitize Documents and Photos

Paper clutter can add up quickly. Consider digitizing important documents and photos to save space. There are many apps and services available that make this process easy. Be sure to back up your digital files in multiple locations to ensure they are safe.

8. Tackle the Kitchen

The kitchen is often one of the most cluttered areas in a home. Start by getting rid of expired food and spices. Then, move on to kitchen gadgets and appliances. If you haven’t used an item in the past year, consider donating or selling it.

9. Simplify Your Wardrobe

Moving is a great opportunity to simplify your wardrobe. Go through your clothes and get rid of anything that doesn’t fit, is out of style, or you haven’t worn in the past year. Consider donating gently used items to a local charity.

10. Involve the Whole Family

If you’re moving with family, involve everyone in the decluttering process. Assign tasks to each family member and work together to sort through belongings. This not only makes the process faster but also ensures that everyone takes responsibility for their own items.

11. Consider Temporary Storage

If you’re having trouble deciding what to keep and what to get rid of, consider renting a portable storage container from UNITS® Moving and Portable Storage of Durham to store some belongings in. This gives you more time to make decisions and can reduce the stress of moving. 

12. Plan a Garage Sale

A garage sale is a great way to get rid of unwanted items and make some extra money before your move. Plan a garage sale a few weeks before your move and advertise it in your community. This is also a good way to involve neighbors and friends in your moving process.

Decluttering before a move can seem like a monumental task, but with these tips, you can make the process more manageable and even enjoyable. Remember to start early, create a plan, and involve the whole family. By decluttering your home before you move, you’ll not only make the moving process easier but also start your new chapter in a more organized and clutter-free space. Happy moving!

For more information and help with extra storage, visit UNITS® Moving and Portable Storage of Durham or call us at (984) 202-8072.