How to Declutter Before Moving
about 1 year ago
How to Declutter Before Moving

Moving is oftentimes referred to as one of the most painstaking tasks to complete in our lives, especially the decluttering aspect of the move. 

We have determined there are 6 things you can do to make decluttering less stressful and keep it in order so that when you move into your new home the transition is easy!

Start Early

When you start to consider the possibility of moving this is when you need to start the decluttering process. You aren’t going to pack up your kitchen or bathroom at this time, but doing your shed, garage or spare room is the best place to start, as you can then use these rooms to store the containers of packed things during the move.

Piles are your friends

Decluttering is not about throwing things away or keeping them. Although it may seem easier to throw the things you don’t use away, you can benefit the community by donating items such as clothes, kid's toys and clothes, unopened bedding and good quality household items. Encourage your kids to use the same categories as you and explain to them that their old toys or books can help another child who might not always have access to them. 

Try to focus

Decluttering can reopen memories and high emotions which can make the process long and tiring. If you know the kids' rooms are going to be tough to declutter, put aside assigned time when the house is quiet and you can cherish the time in there BUT ensure you are strict with yourself! Assign 30 minutes to clear out the wardrobe and once 30 minutes is up you must move on to the next section to keep yourself accountable.

Ask for help

Teamwork makes dream work. To get things done quicker and more efficiently ask your friends, family or neighbours to help box things up. They do not need to go through your sock draw, but wrapping plates in bubble wrap is a job nearly anyone can do. You might just have to buy the pizzas!

Donations, garage sales and hand-me-downs for the win!

Momentos are an important thing, but there's probably no reason to keep the first apple seeds from the first apple eaten by your daughter who is now 25. Some items such as billy carts, bikes and doll houses take up a lot of room and can bring so much joy and happiness to people if you donate them, or if you don’t have that option, you can do a garage sale and buy a new couch for your new house! Clothes can be cute when worn through generations, passing down good quality clothes through your children, nieces, nephews and friends can reduce the amount of clutter while also getting to see the items being worn again.  

Clean as you go

Self-explanatory, this will reduce the amount of time you have to double back and clean through all the shelves, wardrobe and cupboards you were storing all your belongings. Wipe a simple spray and wipe, this will create an ease in your mind!

Hopefully, these small tips can make a big difference to your packing and moving experience, and make the process de-stressed!

If you are interested in understanding the value of your home, contact a McKean McGregor agent today for a free appraisal.