Sian Victoria © - Moving home and packing

Preparing for Moving Home: How to Manage Unwanted Items

From my experiences of moving countries and homes, I can confirm that moving house can be really fun but also a total hassle filled with stress, especially when it comes to sorting through all your stuff. A big part of making it easier is dealing with the things you don’t want anymore.

Getting rid of unwanted items before you move can help you save a bunch of time, cash, and effort, making the whole process so much smoother. This guide gives you some simple tips and tricks for decluttering effectively so that your new place can be neat and free of things you don’t need. When moving homes, I like to take inspiration from Lagom, which is the Swedish way of life, to minimalism and balancing life and work.

Within this step-by-step guide, you’ll find that each section is packed with practical advice to help you decide what to keep and what to let go of, making your move simpler and your unpacking less of a headache.

1. Start Early

Getting a head start on decluttering well before your moving day is super important for staying organised and keeping stress levels down. Give yourself enough time to really go through your stuff, so you can make thoughtful choices without feeling rushed. Planning ahead lets you sort everything into groups for keeping, donating, selling, or tossing, plus it gives you a chance to deal with any bumps in the road that might come up, which, from my experience, is most likely!

You can also plan out activities like selling your stuff online, garage sales or charity drop-offs without the pressure of an upcoming move. When tackling one room at a time, you’ll avoid feeling completely overwhelmed. Plus, this way, you can recycle and dispose of any hazardous items properly, making your move more eco-friendly!

2. Create a Sorting System

Setting up a simple sorting system can really make decluttering a lot easier. Start by dividing your stuff into four groups: keep, donate, sell, and toss. Just grab a bunch of boxes or bags and get them labelled clearly to avoid any confusion. This way, you can go through your things more logically and make better choices about what to hold onto and what to get rid of.

Having everything organised helps you manage your items better, so you’re less likely to end up with unnecessary clutter in your new place. Plus, it makes it super easy to figure out what you can sell or give away, which might even earn you some cash or help someone out.

3. Tackle One Room at a Time

Tackling one room at a time can really help keep the overwhelming feelings at bay when you're decluttering. Start off with a smaller space to get the ball rolling, then gradually move to the bigger areas. This way, you’ll feel like you’re making progress, which makes the whole job seem way less intimidating.

Take it step by step: go through drawers, cupboards, and shelves one by one. Set specific time slots for each room and set some realistic goals for what you want to get done during each session. This approach not only keeps things organised but also makes sure every corner of your home gets some love.

Plus, by focusing on one room, it's easier to spot items that belong elsewhere, so you won't just be moving clutter around. You'll actually see results, which can keep your motivation up as you keep decluttering!

4. Use the One-Year Rule

If you’re struggling to decide whether to keep or toss certain items, try the one-year rule. Just think about whether you've used or needed the item in the past year. If the answer is no, it’s probably a sign that it’s not essential to your day-to-day life. This guideline can ideally help cut down on unnecessary clutter and make it easier to manage your stuff.

Take seasonal items like winter coats or holiday decorations, for example. If you haven’t touched them in a year, maybe it’s time to think about whether they’re worth keeping. It's the same with kitchen gadgets, books, and clothes. We tend to hold onto stuff for sentimental reasons or because we think we might need it down the line. But by following the one-year rule, you can be more objective and reduce the number of items taking up precious space in your home.

Using this rule not only helps with decluttering but also encourages you to be more mindful about what you buy. You'll get a better sense of what you actually use and need, which can lead to smarter shopping habits down the line, especially if you're into fast fashion like I was and come to the conclusion that you need to start shopping for clothing more sustainably.

The one-year rule is a straightforward and handy method for clearing out your stuff, so only the stuff that truly matters makes it into your new space.

5. Digitise Documents

Nowadays, everything is digitised, and cutting down on paper clutter is super easy and practical. Just scan those important documents and save them digitally, making sure to have backups stored safely somewhere. I recommend getting external hard drives and storing them away in fireproof storage bags for peace of mind.

This not only clears up physical space but also helps you find what you need later on. Use cloud services, external hard drives, or encrypted USB sticks to keep your files safe. Plus, keep everything organised in a way that makes sense, such as using clear names so you can find stuff quickly.

Digitising things like receipts, manuals, and old letters also helps protect them from damage or getting lost. And don’t forget to shred any sensitive stuff you don't need anymore to prevent identity theft. Stick to these tips, and you'll stay organised while making your move easier, keeping your new place nice and tidy.

6. Hold a Garage Sale

Hosting a garage sale is a great way to clear out your stuff and make some extra cash at the same time. Pick a date well ahead of time and spread the word about your sale using local boards, social media, and just talking to people to get the most folks to show up. Go through your home and find items you don’t need anymore but are still in good shape. Be sure to price everything clearly to make it easy for buyers, and think about bundling smaller items together for quicker sales.

Set up your garage sale so it looks good to catch people's attention. Organise your items neatly and group similar things together, like putting kitchenware in one spot and books in another area. Also, have plenty of change on hand and a safe way to keep your money. Offering some cold drinks or snacks can help draw in more people and keep them hanging around longer.

Don’t forget about those early birds who might show up before the official start time. If you have everything ready to go, you can start making sales right away. For anything that doesn’t sell, consider donating it to charity or disposing of it responsibly, which helps with your decluttering effort.

If you don’t fancy doing a garage sale, I recommend using Facebook Marketplace. I’ve found that it's been brilliant for selling my unwanted furniture that's hard and expensive to move, especially when there’s often a fee for disposing of it at a local amenity site. You’ll find that most people are looking to do upcycling projects, which means your secondhand goods can get a new lease of life, helping to cut down on landfill waste, and your preloved items become someone else's treasure.

7. Hire Someone to Move Your Stuff

Hiring a home removal company reduces the stress of moving when it comes to transporting your belongings from the old to the new place. These pros know how to pack, transport, and unload your stuff quickly and safely. When you let them handle the heavy lifting, you can focus on other important things, like getting settled in your new place or sorting out paperwork.

Movers come with all the stuff they need, like strong boxes, packing tape, and protective wraps like rolls of bubble wrap, so you know your stuff will be packed up nicely and safely and is less likely to get damaged. They also have the know-how to deal with big or fragile items, which means less risk of injury for you and fewer chances of your stuff getting broken.

Plus, a lot of professional moving companies offer insurance options, which gives you peace of mind in case something goes wrong. When picking a moving company, it’s a good idea to get a few quotes and check out reviews to find one that’s reliable. And definitely book your movers ahead of time, especially during busy moving seasons, to lock in the date and time you want.

When letting the movers take care of the heavy work, you’ll save time and energy, making your move to the new place easier and smoother, and most likely completed in one trip if you have very minimal stuff after your decluttering, like I did.

Sian Victoria © - Suitcases and bags packed

8. Donate to Charity

Donating to charity is a great way to get rid of stuff you don't need anymore. Start by going through your things and picking out what’s still in decent shape but doesn’t serve you anymore. Clothes, toys, books, and household items are usually a big hit with charities. Take a little time to check out local charities, shelters, and non-profits to see what they take and what their rules are for donations.

When you’re ready to donate, make sure everything’s clean and works well. Fold clothes nicely, double-check that toys have all their pieces, and ensure any electronics are safe to use. Some charities will even come by to pick up your donations, which makes it super easy for you.

Donating not only helps people who need it but also promotes sustainable living by giving your items a new life. Plus, you might get a receipt for your taxes if you need one! Involving your family in the donation process can also be a good way to teach kids about generosity and helping the community.

Whether it's a local food bank, a homeless shelter, or a bigger organisation, your donations really can change lives. When choosing where to donate wisely, you can support a variety of causes and help those who are struggling.

9. Recycle Responsibly

Recycling is super important for getting rid of unwanted stuff responsibly when you're moving. It’s a good idea to check out your local recycling rules so you know how to dispose of things the right way. Different places can have their own guidelines for things like paper, glass, plastics, and metals. Some areas offer curbside pickup for recycling, while others might have you drop things off at specific sites.

For things like old electronics, mobile phones, and batteries, look into special recycling programs. Many electronics stores or recycling centres will take these off your hands, keeping them out of the landfill. Plus, a lot of communities have drop-off spots for clothes, batteries, makeup containers and textiles that can be reused or recycled.

When it comes to big items like furniture or appliances, see if you can donate them instead of just recycling or tossing them. Some charities will take them if they’re in decent shape, giving them a second chance and cutting down on waste. Don’t forget about composting, too – tossing food scraps and yard waste into a compost bin can help lower the amount of rubbish you create.

When knowing and following your local recycling tips, you’re helping the environment and cutting down on the carbon footprint of your move. Proper recycling makes sure materials get repurposed effectively, which supports a greener, more sustainable lifestyle in your new place.

10. Hire a Professional Organiser

Hiring a professional organiser can really change the game when it comes to decluttering. Instead of feeling overwhelmed, you’ll have someone to help you tackle the mess in a smart and fun way. These pros know all the tricks to help you sort through your stuff efficiently. They’ll work with you to create a plan that fits your specific situation, making sure every item is dealt with properly.

Having a fresh set of eyes can make a big difference; it’s easier to decide what to keep or toss when someone’s there to assist you. They can also share some clever storage ideas and organisational systems you might not have thought about. When breaking things down into smaller steps, they make the whole process feel less stressful and more straightforward.

Plus, a professional organiser can help with the emotional side of decluttering too, keeping you motivated and on track so you don’t end up procrastinating. If you’re pressed for time, their quick methods can really speed things up, letting you focus on other parts of your move, especially if you have a big home and plenty of things to sort through.

On top of that, many organisers offer virtual sessions, so you can get help right from home. Whether you’re looking for a bit of guidance or full-on support, a professional organiser can be a huge help in creating a clutter-free space.

11. Dispose of Hazardous Materials

Getting rid of hazardous materials the right way is absolutely necessary for keeping everyone safe and being kind to the environment during your move. Things like paints, chemicals, batteries, and some cleaning products need special care and can't just be tossed in the regular trash. First, take a look at your stuff and see what fits this category. Check for labels that say the item is toxic, flammable, corrosive, or reactive.

Once you know what you’ve got, reach out to your local waste management office to find out how to dispose of these items safely. Many places have specific spots where you can drop them off or even have pick-up services for hazardous waste. Some areas also hold special collection events from time to time for these kinds of items.

You might also want to see if any stores or manufacturers have take-back programs for things like electronics or batteries. These programs usually take care of recycling or disposing of the materials safely for you. Remember to keep hazardous materials in their original containers with the labels still on, and follow any storage tips to avoid leaks or spills.

When following these steps, you'll be doing your part for the environment and keeping everyone safe during the move. Taking care of hazardous materials the right way helps make sure they're disposed of in a way that minimises harm and supports sustainability.

12. Involve the Whole Family

Getting the whole family involved in decluttering can really make things go faster and be a lot more fun. Give each family member some specific tasks based on what they like and can handle. For example, let the kids go through their toys and pick out the ones they don’t play with anymore, while the adults can take on tougher spots like the garage or attic. Make it a team effort by setting some goals and celebrating when you hit them together. This way, everyone pitches in, and it builds a sense of shared responsibility and teamwork.

Plus, it’s a great chance to teach kids about keeping things organised and why having fewer possessions and clutter around the place is best, not only for the environment and your bank balance, but also for your mental health.

You could even turn it into a little game or challenge to keep the younger ones excited and engaged. When working together, you can make sure every area of the house gets attention, which will make moving way easier for everyone.

13. Final Sweep

Doing a final sweep of your home before moving day is necessary to make sure you don’t miss anything. Walk through each room with a checklist and check every nook and cranny, like corners, cupboards, and storage spaces. Don’t forget those easily overlooked spots like the loft, on top of kitchen units, the basement, and under the stairs! Take a good look in drawers, on shelves, and behind big pieces of furniture too.

This is a great time to gather up anything you want to donate, recycle, or throw away. Plus, you can spot any last-minute house repairs or cleaning tasks that need to be taken care of, like getting rid of mould you’ve stumbled across. Throwing all the rubbish and leaving the place tidy will make a good impression on the next people moving in.

Also, double-check that all your important documents and valuables are packed safely and easily found. Keep stuff like passports, medical records, and valuable jewellery separate from the regular moving boxes so nothing gets lost in the chaos.

If you have kids, it’s a good idea to get them involved in checking their rooms. This way, they can make sure they haven’t left behind any favourite toys or things that mean a lot to them. This final look helps ensure nothing important gets left behind and gives everyone a chance to say goodbye to their soon-to-be old home.

How Do You Decide What to Keep or Discard?

Deciding what to keep or toss can be a real challenge, especially when you're attached to certain things. Here are some easy tips to help you figure it out:

Check How Useful It Is: Start by thinking about how practical each item is. When did you last use it? Do you even need it in the new place? If you haven’t touched it in over a year, it might be time to let it go.
Think About Sentimental Value: Some items bring back great memories, while others might just be taking up space. Keep the stuff that really means something to you, not the things you’re just holding on to out of habit.
Consider Available Space: Take a look at how much room you have in your new digs. If something won’t fit in or just doesn’t vibe with your new style, maybe it’s best to pass on it.
Assess Quality and Condition: Check the state of your belongings. If things are worn out or damaged, it’s probably time to recycle or ditch them responsibly.
Go for Multipurpose Stuff: Look for items that can serve multiple purposes. Having things that can do more than one job can help you create space and cut down on clutter in your new home.

Decluttering Checklist for Removals

To clean up your house more effectively, check out this list of what to consider tossing.

Stuff That’s Worn Out or Just Old

Old gadgets: Don’t just stash away those old computers, TVs, and phones. Recycle them or donate the ones that still work.
Broken furniture: Get rid of any chairs or tables that aren’t in good shape.
Expired items: Carefully throw away any food or medicine that's gone bad.

Too Much of a Good Thing

Duplicates: Keep just one of your favourite items and get rid of the extras. You can give them away or sell them.
Clothes: If you've got clothes that don’t fit anymore, it’s time to let them go. Consider donating those that are still in good shape.
Media: Books, CDs, DVDs: Time to clear out the ones you’ll never read or watch again.

Forgotten Stuff Stashed in the Back of Your Closet

Accessories: Why not gift or sell those unused bits of jewellery you have lying around?
Toys: Kids outgrow toys pretty quickly; donating them is a great option.
Kitchen Items: For those kitchen gadgets you never use, it’s worth taking a closer look and deciding if they should stick around.

Things That Won’t Fit in Your New Place

Big furniture: Measure your new space so you know what will fit. Don’t bother moving stuff that’s too big.
Outdated stuff: If some items just don’t match your new home, it’s time to say goodbye.

To conclude

Managing unwanted stuff before a move can really make the whole process easier, from packing up to settling into your new place. If you start early, sort things out, and get the whole family involved, you’ll have a solid game plan for decluttering. Not only does this lighten the load for moving day, but it also sets you up for a more organised and tidy home.

Plus, donating, selling, and recycling what you don’t need is a great way to make your move more eco-friendly and give back to the community. When following these tips, you can make the transition smoother and focus more on enjoying your new space without the hassle of extra clutter and finding where to put it or the extra expense of renting a storage unit or taking it with you overseas if you move countries like I did on my first move out of the family home.

*SHOP THE POST

These must-have products make decluttering your home a breeze. Start with clear, stackable storage bins to neatly organise and easily access your items. Pair them with a label maker to create a systematic, visually pleasing space. Next, consider a space-saving vacuum storage bag set, perfect for tucking seasonal clothing or bulky bedding. A rotating shelf organiser will keep your pantry and bathroom cabinets in top shape to tackle those hard-to-reach spots. Finally, add a sleek, multipurpose wall-mounted hook rack to declutter your entryway or wardrobe. Adopt a clutter-free lifestyle with these essential tools and watch your space become more minimalistic!

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13 Tips for Decluttering and Packing Before Moving House