Decluttering before a move is all about editing down your belongings—the process requires streamlining and organizing to ensure that only the essentials make the journey to your new home.

Moving can be a daunting task, but with a strategic approach to decluttering, you can alleviate stress and make the transition smoother. Read our comprehensive guide on how to prepare for a move through decluttering, ensuring that you start your new chapter with clarity and purpose.

13 Steps to Decluttering Like A Pro

Although it’s understandable to feel daunted by the decluttering process, the task can be infinitely easier with the right know-how in your toolkit. Discover our 13 surefire steps to make your declutter feel like a breeze!

  • Assess Your Space and Set Goals

Before diving into decluttering, take a step back to assess your current space and envision your new one. Consider the layout, size, and functionality of your future home. Will you have more storage space in your new home? How will your space change? Understanding the answers to these questions and setting clear goals can guide you through the process.

  • Create a Timeline

Moving can quickly become overwhelming, so it’s crucial to create a timeline that breaks down tasks into manageable steps. Start decluttering well in advance of your move date, ideally a few months ahead. This allows ample time to sort through belongings methodically without feeling rushed, which can make the process significantly easier. Schedule specific decluttering sessions, focusing on different areas of your home each time.

  • Sort Methodically

Begin decluttering by sorting items into categories, such as clothes, books, kitchenware, and sentimental items. As you go through each category, ask yourself whether each item serves a purpose or brings you joy. Marie Kondo’s famous question, “Does it spark joy?” can be a helpful mantra during this process. Be honest with yourself and let go of items that no longer serve you.

  • The Four-Box Method

A practical approach to decluttering is the four-box method. Label four boxes or bins: Keep, Donate/Sell, Trash, and Unsure. As you go through each room, place items into their respective boxes. The “Unsure” box is for items you’re undecided about, which you can revisit later. This method helps streamline decision-making and keeps the process organized.

  • Minimize Sentimental Attachments

Sentimental items typically pose the greatest challenges during decluttering, as people struggle to separate the sentimental value from its actual need or use. While it’s natural to attach memories to objects, it’s essential to differentiate between sentimental value and practicality. Carefully consider the necessity of these items, as many of them can be eliminated or given to other friends or family members.

  • Downsize Your Wardrobe

Clothing tends to accumulate over time, much of which may no longer fit or reflect your style. Take this opportunity to downsize your wardrobe by donating or selling items you no longer wear. Keep versatile pieces that you genuinely love and that suit your lifestyle. Consider factors such as climate and daily activities when deciding what to keep. If you haven’t worn an item in a while, it’s probably time to let it go.

  • Digitize Paperwork and Photos

Paper clutter can be a significant source of disorganization. Digitize important documents, such as tax records, receipts, and manuals, to reduce paper clutter and ensure easy access. Similarly, scan old photographs and store them digitally to preserve memories while freeing up physical space. Invest in a reliable cloud storage service to securely store digital files.

  • Evaluate Furniture and Large Items

Furniture and large items can be challenging to move, especially if they’re bulky. Evaluate each piece based on its condition, functionality, and suitability for your new space. Consider selling or donating furniture that no longer serves your needs. Opt to keep versatile pieces that can adapt to different room layouts and functions.

  • Dispose of Hazardous Items Responsibly

Certain items, such as old electronics, expired medications, and hazardous chemicals, require special disposal methods. Research local guidelines for disposing of these items safely. Many communities offer recycling programs or hazardous waste collection events for proper disposal. Avoid throwing hazardous items in the trash or pouring them down the drain, as they can harm the environment.

  • Utilize Storage Solutions

Invest in organizational solutions to maximize storage space in your new home. Use storage bins, shelves, and closet organizers to keep belongings tidy and easily accessible. Before purchasing storage solutions, measure the dimensions of your new space to ensure compatibility. Opt for multifunctional furniture with built-in storage compartments to maximize space efficiency.

  • Pack Strategically

Once you’ve decluttered and organized your belongings, packing becomes more manageable. Pack room by room, labeling boxes clearly with their contents and destination rooms. Use protective packing materials, such as bubble wrap or packing paper, to safeguard fragile items. Consider color-coding or numbering boxes to streamline unpacking at your new home.

  • Donate and Recycle Responsibly

Rather than discarding unwanted items, consider donating them to charitable organizations or recycling them whenever possible. Many donation centers accept clothing, furniture, appliances, and household goods in good condition. Research local donation centers or schedule donation pickups to ensure your items find new homes where they’re needed.

  • Seek Professional Help if Needed

If decluttering feels overwhelming or time-consuming, you can always enlist the help of professional organizers or movers to lighten the load of this process. Professional organizers can provide guidance and support throughout the decluttering process, helping you make tough decisions and stay on track. Movers can handle packing, loading, and transporting your belongings, saving you time and effort.

Expert Decluttering Made Simple

Decluttering before a move is a transformative process that not only lightens your physical load but also clears mental clutter, allowing you to start anew with a refreshed perspective. By following these decluttering tips and strategies, you can streamline your move, minimize stress, and create a more organized living space in your new home. Embrace the opportunity to let go of the old and make room for the new beginnings that await you.

Looking for a trusted moving company on Long Island? Count on Austin Moving & Storage, Long Island’s highly-rated moving company for three generations. Our team of professionals offers a comprehensive menu of moving, packing, and storage services, allowing you to experience a one-stop shop for all of your relocation needs.

With our solutions, you can enjoy a convenient, streamlined relocation. Request a quote online or call us today, and discover how simple moving can be with Austin on your side!