Items Often Regretted Not Letting Go, as per Professional Relocators' Insights
Streamlining Your Move: A Comprehensive Decluttering Checklist
When it comes to relocating, decluttering your living space beforehand can prove to be an invaluable asset. This process entails discarding unnecessary items, thereby reducing the number of things to transport and unpack in your new home, and potentially saving you some cash.
First and foremost, take a critical look at your old paperwork. According to the co-owners of Sorted and Styled, paperwork that no longer holds relevance for your life is an excellent starting point for reducing stress before moving. Tax documents from years gone by are generally unnecessary, such as tax returns from 2012, they can be disposed of. Keep in mind that most access to old account records is available online.
Unworn or outdated clothing is another potential source of clutter. If an item doesn’t fit, isn’t flattering, or is out of fashion, admit that your new life does not require it. A good rule of thumb is if a garment hasn’t seen use in a year, it likely won’t be missed.
Old furniture may seem like an afterthought when preparing for a move, but when you consider downsizing or moving to a new residence, it's prudent to consider whether your existing furniture will fit or if it's destined for the trash. Conversely, taking the time to measure your new home can help ensure that you only bring along furniture that will serve a purpose in your new space.
Do not overlook expired items, which can pose a threat to your health and well-being. This includes expired food, toiletries, and medication. The jar symbol on toiletry bottles serves as an indication of an item's shelf life. Harsh spices that have expired lose their flavor and should be discarded. Additionally, it's essential to check your medicine cabinet and part ways with expired medications and remedies.
When it comes to baby and kid's items, if they are no longer age or size appropriate for members of your household, consider donating them or passing them on to someone in need. This includes accessories like sports gear or equipment that hasn't been used in years.
Duplicate items, such as kitchen utensils, are often accumulated without intent and can take up precious storage space during a move. Whittle down your excess items by keeping only one of each rarely used tool, like a vegetable peeler or stapler.
The linen closet is another prime area for shedding excess items. Be ruthless in discarding old, stained towels or sheets. Most linens, such as towels and sheets, have a lifespan of about two years, although you should assess their condition based on wear and tear.
If you have old equipment, such as frying pans or food containers, that have not been used in quite some time, it's likely prudent to donate them to make room in your cabinets and moving boxes.
Old electronics, like DVD players or even cell phones, can be repurposed or donated to organizations in need. Check your electronics and discard unneeded items.
When it comes to decorating your new home, it's an excellent opportunity to reassess your preferences and part ways with items that no longer represent you. If your style has evolved, it's wise to leave the past behind and focus on the fresh start offered by your new living space. Sell or donate decorative items that don't embody your current aesthetic.
During the decluttering process, create a quick system to sort items into categories: "Keep," "Donate," and "Trash." This can save time and alleviate stress when determining what will accompany you on your move.
Ultimately, a reduced load of belongings means fewer packing supplies and less time spent packing and unpacking, potentially saving you a significant amount of money. By getting rid of unnecessary items early, you'll ensure a smoother transition to your new home.
- For a seamless transition to your new home-and-garden, consider decluttering old paperwork, like 2012 tax returns, as they can be disposed of since most access to old account records is available online.
- In the quest for decluttering, examine your home-and-garden closely, starting with clothing that doesn't fit, isn't flattering, or is out of fashion, and realize that your new lifestyle doesn't require them.
- When streamlining your move, take the time to measure your new home to ensure that only furniture suitable for your new space is brought along, as old furniture may no longer fit comfortably.
