How to Declutter Before Your Move

Published: September 15, 2024

Moving to a new home offers the perfect opportunity to start fresh, and that begins with decluttering. By sorting through your belongings and parting with what you no longer need, you’ll not only lighten your load but also make the moving process smoother. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to declutter before your move to ensure a stress-free experience.

Start Early

The best way to tackle decluttering is by starting as early as possible. Don’t wait until moving day is just around the corner. Begin sorting through your belongings weeks or even months in advance. This gives you plenty of time to make thoughtful decisions about what to keep and what to let go. Starting early also helps you avoid feeling overwhelmed by a last-minute rush to declutter.

Declutter Room by Room

Decluttering is much more manageable when you break it down room by room. Tackle one space at a time, whether it’s your kitchen, bedroom, or garage. This method allows you to stay organized and focused on the task at hand. As you work through each room, separate items into categories: keep, donate, sell, and toss. Working room by room ensures that no area is overlooked and helps you stay on track.

Focus on the Essentials

As you begin to declutter, focus on the essentials. Evaluate each item and ask yourself if it’s something you use regularly or if it adds value to your life. Items that are broken, outdated, or that haven’t been used in over a year are good candidates for removal. This approach helps you keep only what’s necessary and functional, making your new home less cluttered and more organized.

Sort and Organize

Once you’ve decided what to keep, sort and organize your items. Group similar items together, such as books with books or kitchen gadgets with other cooking tools. Use clear bins or labels to keep things tidy and easy to find. Organizing as you declutter ensures that everything similar will be together when you move into your new home, making the transition smoother.

Donate or Sell Unwanted Items

Items that are in good condition but no longer needed can be donated to local charities or sold through online marketplaces or garage sales. Donating or selling items not only helps others but also reduces the number of things you need to move. Consider scheduling a donation pick-up or setting aside a weekend to handle sales so you’re not left with excess clutter at the last minute.

Dispose of Trash Responsibly

For items that are broken or no longer usable, proper disposal is key. Many communities offer recycling programs for electronic waste, hazardous materials, and other non-standard trash. Make sure to check your local guidelines to dispose of these items responsibly. 

Maintain the Decluttered State

Decluttering doesn’t end once you’ve moved into your new home. To keep your space organized, implement habits that prevent clutter from accumulating. Regularly review your belongings, make time for periodic decluttering, and be mindful of what you bring into your home. Maintaining a clutter-free environment will help you enjoy your new space to the fullest.

Decluttering before your move can make a big difference in how smoothly your transition goes. By starting early, working room by room, focusing on essentials, and organizing effectively, you’ll be well on your way to a fresh start. Don’t forget to donate or sell unwanted items and dispose of trash responsibly. With these tips, you can easily settle into your new home and enjoy a more organized, stress-free environment.

For help with your move, visit UNITS® Moving and Portable Storage of York or call (717) 276-8719 to get your free quote today.