Are you preparing to move? Make the process easier by decluttering before packing. This can reduce what you need to unpack in your new home and save money on supplies. Here’s a handy checklist of items to eliminate before moving:
1. **Old Paperwork**: Jamie Andrieu and Hillary Forst, co-owners of Sorted and Styled, recommend decluttering old papers like tax returns older than or materials you can find online.
2. **Unworn Clothing**: Only bring clothes that fit and that you love to your new house. Use this opportunity to donate items you no longer wear.
3. **Old Furniture**: Consider whether you should bring your old furniture when buying new pieces. Measure your new space to ensure old items fit.
4. **Expired Items**: Marissa Hagmeyer advises discarding expired food and toiletries as they can harm your health. This also includes expired spices and medications.
5. **Leftover Paint**: Hazardous materials like old paint cans are often not moved by companies. Drop them at a local waste center.
6. **Outgrown Kids’ Items**: Donate items that are no longer age-appropriate for your children.
7. **Unnecessary Duplicates**: Decide which items you need in duplicate and donate the rest.
8. **Old Linens**: Assess your linens. Outdated or shabby towels and bedding should be replaced.
9. **Extra Cookware**: Donate extra cookware and utensils that take up space.
10. **Old Electronics**: Evaluate electronics that you no longer use and find outlets that can refurbish or donate them.
11. **Outdated Decor**: Refresh your decor by selling or donating pieces that no longer reflect your style.
12. **Miscellaneous “Just in Case” Items**: Let go of chargers, broken decor, or other unused items.
Decluttering before moving reduces stress and helps you start fresh in your new home.
