Decluttering Before a Move: What to Keep and Toss

Posted on 25/05/2025

Decluttering Before a Move: What to Keep and Toss

Moving to a new home is a perfect opportunity to start fresh and minimize clutter. Decluttering before a move isn't just about getting rid of stuff--it's about making smart choices on what to bring into your new space. This detailed guide will help you figure out what to keep, what to toss, and how to make your next move easier, more efficient, and less stressful.

Why Declutter Before You Move?

Preparing for a move involves many tasks, but decluttering your home should be at the top of your list. Here are a few reasons why:

• Reduce Moving Costs: Movers typically charge by weight, volume, or time; less stuff means lower fees.
• Save Time and Effort: Packing and unpacking are much quicker with fewer belongings.
• Start Fresh: A move is a new beginning. Bringing only what you need and love gives your new home a clean slate.
• Avoid Clutter in Your New Home: Don't let unnecessary possessions take up space in your new environment.

Quick Tip: The less you move, the less you spend and stress!

How to Start Decluttering: Preparation Tips

Before you dive into boxes and bags, have a concrete decluttering plan in place. Here's how to get started:

1. Set Clear Goals: Decide which rooms, closets, or storage areas need the most attention.
2. Gather Supplies: Get boxes for donations, recycling, and trash, plus markers for labeling.
3. Begin Early: Start at least a month in advance to avoid last-minute decisions.
4. Sort by Category: Group items by type--clothes, books, kitchenware--for easier decisions.
5. Schedule Decluttering Sessions: Set aside time each day or weekend to tackle a specific area.

Room-by-Room Decluttering Guide

The decision-making process can be overwhelming, especially if you have years' worth of stuff. To help, here is a room-by-room guide for what to keep, toss, donate, or sell before a move:

1. Living Room

• Keep: Furniture that fits your new space, electronics in good working order, meaningful decor.
• Toss/Donate: Broken electronics, outdated magazines, decor you no longer love, furniture that won't fit or match.
• Sell: Gently used items like lamps or coffee tables--these have good resale value.

2. Kitchen

• Keep: Quality cookware, everyday dishes, utensils, small appliances you use often.
• Toss: Expired food, mismatched containers, broken gadgets, warped pans.
• Donate: Duplicate items, like extra mugs, unused mixers, or gadgets in good working condition.

3. Bedrooms

• Keep: Clothes you wear, working electronics, essential linens.
• Toss: Worn-out shoes, socks with holes, broken jewelry, old stuffed animals.
• Donate: Clothing in good condition that doesn't fit or suit your style anymore; extra bedding.

4. Bathroom

• Keep: Everyday toiletries, medications (check expiration!), essential towels.
• Toss: Expired makeup, old hairbrushes, empty containers.
• Donate: Unused, unopened bath products.

5. Garage, Basement, and Attic

• Keep: Useful tools, seasonal decor, quality sports equipment.
• Toss: Broken tools, rusted hardware, old paint cans, items you haven't used in years.
• Sell/Donate: Bicycles, gardening equipment, lightly used storage bins.

Deciding What to Keep and Toss: The Golden Rules

Unsure about specific items? These timeless rules can help you navigate decluttering before a move:

1. The 12-Month Rule: If you haven't used it in a year, consider letting it go.
2. Think "Would I Buy This Today?" If not, it may not be worth packing and moving.
3. Is It Broken or Damaged? Toss or recycle anything that's beyond repair.
4. Duplicates Are Unnecessary: Keep the best--donate or toss the rest.
5. Sentimental Items: Save a few meaningful pieces, but don't let nostalgia weigh you down.

Decluttering Checklist: What to Keep and What to Toss

To simplify your process, use this ultimate decluttering checklist before your move. Review each item as you pack, deciding if it should stay or go.

• Clothes: Only keep garments that fit, are out of season but worn regularly, or serve a specific occasion (e.g., wedding attire).
• Books: Keep favorites, ones you'll reread, or necessary references; donate or sell the rest.
• Electronics: Only pack working devices; recycle or sell unused gadgets and cords.
• Paperwork: Shred old bills, expired warranty cards; keep essential documents like passports, birth certificates, taxes.
• Toys and Games: Keep what's played with; donate or toss the rest.
• Linens: Two sets of sheets per bed, two towels per person is a good rule.
• Pantry Goods: Keep unopened, in-date items; toss expired or perishable foods.
• Decorations: Take what fits your new style; donate or sell dated or damaged decor.
• Tools and Hardware: Keep quality and frequently-used tools; toss duplicates and rusted pieces.

What Should You Immediately Toss Before Moving?

Some items aren't worth the cost or effort to move. Here's a quick list of what to definitely toss before relocating:

• Old paint, chemicals, or cleaning solutions (Check local disposal guidelines)
• Expired medications or vitamins
• Damaged cookware (pans with scratches, warped pots)
• Outdated holiday decorations
• Magazines and newspapers (unless collectors' items)
• Worn out furniture or mattresses
• Single socks, broken shoes
• Tattered towels or bedding

Avoid packing regret: When in doubt, throw it out or donate!

How to Dispose of Unwanted Items Responsibly

Decluttering before a move means you'll likely have a pile of things to get rid of. Here's how to do it responsibly:

• Donate usable items to local charities, shelters, or thrift shops.
• Host a garage sale for items in good condition, like furniture or collectibles.
• Recycle electronics, paper, and textiles.
• Dispose of hazardous materials at approved facilities (old paint, chemicals, batteries).
• Offer freebies to friends, neighbors, or via online community groups.

Where to Donate Unwanted Items Before Moving

Here are some common places to take donations:

• Salvation Army or Goodwill
• Habitat for Humanity ReStores
• Local food banks (for unopened, non-perishable foods)
• Animal shelters (bedding, towels, some household items)
• Libraries (books in good condition)

Packing Tips for What You're Keeping

Once you've completed the decluttering process, it's time to pack efficiently. Here are some essential packing tips after decluttering:

• Label boxes clearly with destination rooms and brief contents.
• Use the "First Night" box rule: Pack essentials (toiletries, a change of clothes, basic kitchenware) separately.
• Wrap fragile items with care using towels, clothing, or bubble wrap.
• Pack similar items together for streamlined unpacking.
• Keep an inventory for reference and claims if using professional movers.

Digital Declutter: Don't Forget Your Devices!

Decluttering isn't just about physical items--ensure your digital life is organized before the move. Some steps include:

• Back up important documents and photos to cloud or external drives.
• Delete unused apps and files from computers, tablets, and phones.
• Wipe devices you plan to sell or donate.
• Update your address for subscriptions and online accounts.

Decluttering Frequently Asked Questions

How far in advance should I start decluttering before a move?

Begin decluttering at least four to six weeks before your moving date. This gives you enough time to sort, dispose, and pack without stress.

What if I get overwhelmed?

Take small, manageable steps. Focus on one room or category per day and track your progress. Don't be afraid to ask for help from family or a professional organizer.

Can decluttering save money on moving expenses?

Absolutely! Fewer items mean lower moving costs and less time spent on packing and unpacking.

Is it okay to be sentimental?

Yes--within reason. Allow yourself to keep a few meaningful mementos, but don't let guilt or sentiment clutter your new beginning.

Key Takeaways: Declutter for a Smooth Move

• Start early and have a dedicated strategy.
• Sort items room by room and use the "keep, toss, donate, sell" system.
• Be ruthless with items you no longer use.
• Dispose responsibly to limit waste and help others.
• Packing is easier and quicker when you own less.

Final Thoughts on Decluttering Before a Move

Whether you're relocating across town or across the country, decluttering before your move is the first step to making your new house truly feel like home. By evaluating what you keep and what you toss, you'll lighten your load, simplify unpacking, and create a more meaningful living space from day one.

Ready to make your move a fresh start? Use this guide to declutter with confidence, and enjoy the freedom that comes with letting go of what no longer serves you.

For more moving and organization tips, check out our other articles or download our printable decluttering checklist!