What’s worse than having to pack unused clutter? Moving it and unpacking it into a new home, of course! Use your move as a way to let things go and start fresh in a new home. We know decluttering is a big task that often draws up emotions that increase the challenge. So we’ve provided a list of expert times for downsizing your horde before your move. Read on to learn our decluttering home tips!
1. Assess Your New Home
It’s a good idea to learn what kind of space you’ll have to work with at your new home. If possible, obtain a blueprint. Do you have enough room to take that chaise lounge? This will help you to prioritize which furnishings can come and which to let go of.
2. Declutter in Advance
Give yourself time to go through all of your belongings. It’s an exhausting chore after all!
You’ll want time to have a yard sale and make donation runs. Start about 3 months before your move and aim to finish one month before your move date. Things can get hectic around moving time, you’ll have lots to think about.
3. Create New Habits
One habit to break to help control clutter is keeping things “just-in-case.” It might seem like a good idea to stock up on pens or to buy that sewing machine, just in case you need them, but this sort of mindset leads to a lot of clutter over time.
4. Embrace It!
Downsizing before a move can be an emotionally challenging task, so make the most of it! Embrace the feeling of freedom you get from letting go of personal belongings and clearing out your living space.
Take some of the minimalist mindset with you as you settle into your new home.
5. Use the One Year Rule
This is an easy rule to stick to that will help you make the decision on whether to keep something or pass it along. If you haven’t used it in the past year, donate it or throw it out. Only holding onto the things that you use on a regular basis will help you maintain a clutter-free home and life.
6. Digitize
Digitize everything that you can to save space. Scan your old important documents onto a hard drive and recycle the rest. Do you really want to move that giant filing cabinet with you?
You can also digitize old VHS tapes, cassettes, and CDs to save space in your media cabinet.
7. Find Motivation
Decluttering is easy to think about, but harder to do. If you’re having trouble motivating to declutter try listening to music, enlisting the help of a friend, or starting small. Pick a small project like your junk drawer and knock that out. You’ll be motivated to take on a bigger project once you know you can do it!
Need More Decluttering Home Tips?
Taking the time to downsize your belongings will save you time and stress before, during, and after your move. Our decluttering home tips should get you started in the right direction.
Reach out to us if you have any questions about what to do before your move!