Clearing out unnecessary items is an excellent strategy for getting ready to move. It not only purifies your living space by removing things you no longer need but also clears your mind. Need more reasons to add decluttering to your moving checklist? Here are some!
Reduces Waste
It might be tempting to wait until after you move to sort through your possessions and discard the clutter, but it’s more efficient to tackle this task sooner rather than later. Doing so will save you time and space that are crucial as you transition to a new home.
Saves Money
One of the primary reasons to declutter now is the potential to save money. The less you need to move, the lower your moving costs and the expenses associated with packing supplies will be. It’s a straightforward equation.
Makes You Money
If you believe some of your belongings could fetch a good price, there are numerous online platforms like Facebook Marketplace and Craigslist where you can sell them. Alternatively, a traditional yard sale could also be an option.
Simplifies Your Move
Determining what you don’t want to bring with you in advance can streamline your moving process. A practical approach is to designate a few boxes in each room for items you plan to discard. This method helps you organize your thoughts and plan accordingly, focusing on the items you wish to take with you.
Helps Others
While you’re decluttering, you can also make a positive impact by donating functional items to charity organizations. They might even accept larger items such as furniture and appliances. Additionally, you could offer functional items to a family member in need.
How to Get Started
Where should you begin? Here’s an article with some helpful tips to kickstart your decluttering journey: 5 essential downsizing & decluttering tips for a hassle-free move (Yahoo!, June 17, 2024).
First, it’s important to make a plan. Decide whether you’re planning to donate all your unwanted items or if you’re interested in selling them. Allocate a full day or two for each room to thoroughly go through your belongings and decide what to keep and what to let go. Start with a room that’s less challenging to declutter, such as the living room or guest room. This approach will prevent you from feeling overwhelmed from the start.
When it comes to deciding what to bring and what to discard, there are some basic guidelines. If an item hasn’t been used for more than a year, it might be wise to part with it. Items scattered around your home, such as outdated clothing and unused sports gear, are typically easier to discard. However, some possessions may prove more challenging to let go of, but it’s important to remain determined throughout the process. Once you’ve completed the process of decluttering your entire home, you might discover that you’ve eliminated a third of your possessions. Accumulating clutter is fast, and it can be difficult to part with things. However, decluttering is a means to simplify your life, thereby saving time, space, and money. As long as you allocate sufficient time for planning, decluttering will undoubtedly be advantageous for your future living situation.
Thank you CAM for the tips !