Declutter Before You Move: What to Keep and What to Let Go

Moving house is exciting - but it can also feel overwhelming, especially when faced with packing up your entire life. One of the best ways to make your move smoother and less stressful? Decluttering before you pack.

Professional organisers agree: the less you have to move, the easier, faster, and more affordable your relocation will be. Plus, decluttering beforehand means your new home starts off feeling fresh and clutter-free.

Here’s a handy guide on what to consider decluttering before your move:

1. Expired and Unused Pantry Items

Check your pantry for food that’s past its use-by date or things you never got around to using. There’s no need to pack cans, spices, or snacks that will just take up space or go to waste.

2. Clothes That Don’t Fit or Haven’t Been Worn

Closets can get overcrowded quickly. Sort through your wardrobe and donate clothes and shoes that no longer fit, are out of style, or you haven’t worn in a year. It lightens the load and helps someone else in the process.

3. Old or Broken Electronics and Cables

Chances are you have cords and gadgets gathering dust. Test electronics you plan to keep and recycle or properly dispose of the rest.

4. Books, Magazines, and Paperwork

Go through your bookshelves and recycle magazines you won’t read again. For paperwork, shred what’s unnecessary and file or digitise important documents to save space.

5. Bathroom Products and Cosmetics

Throw out expired skincare, makeup, and medicines. Only pack what you use regularly to avoid carrying extra weight.

6. Unused Furniture and Decor

Moving is the perfect opportunity to rethink your furniture. If some pieces won’t fit your new space or no longer suit your style, consider selling or donating them.

7. Toys, Games, and Kids’ Stuff

Kids grow fast! Sort through toys and games, keeping favourites and donating what’s outgrown or no longer played with.

8. Miscellaneous ‘Junk Drawers’ and Hidden Clutter

Those catch-all drawers and cupboards can hide a surprising amount of clutter (read my previous blog post on this subject). Take the time to clear them out - discard what’s broken or unnecessary.

Why Decluttering Before Moving Helps

• Saves Time and Money: Less to pack, unpack, and transport means lower moving costs and less time spent organising after the move.

• Reduces Stress: Moving is demanding; a clutter-free start lets you settle into your new home with ease.

• Creates Space: You’ll start fresh with room to organise what really matters.

Need Help Decluttering Before Your Move?

Decluttering can feel overwhelming when juggling a busy schedule or emotional attachments. That’s where a professional organiser can step in to help make the process manageable and even enjoyable.

From sorting through items to arranging donations and rubbish removal, support can make your move smoother and your new home feel calm from day one.

Ready to get started? Head to Effortlessly Organised for practical support to help you declutter before your move and create a fresh start.