Stress Free Moving #1: Declutter Before You Move

Moving is the perfect opportunity to let go of what no longer serves you. Decluttering before you pack ensures that only the items you truly need and love make it into your new home. This post will walk you through how to declutter effectively and set yourself up for a smooth transition.

If you haven’t decluttered your items yet, now is the perfect time to go through everything you own and decide what you want to keep going forward. I highly recommend following the KonMari method by Marie Kondo to achieve this.

Why Declutter Before Moving?

• Reduces stress and moving costs.

• Creates clarity for your new home layout.

• Saves time when unpacking.

  
  

Steps to Declutter:

1. Follow the KonMari™️ Method: Go category by category: clothing, books, papers, miscellaneous, sentimental items.

2. Do a Walk‑Through – Even if you’ve decluttered recently, scan each room, drawer, and basket.

3. Focus on One Step at a Time – Don’t mix packing with decluttering.

   
   

Quick Tips:

• Donate or sell items you no longer use.

• Schedule a donation pickup before your moving date.

• Take photos of sentimental items if you’re not ready to keep them.

If you have already completed this method or have gone through your items recently, I would ask you to do a walk-through of every room, drawer, basket, and shelf and confirm that there is nothing else you can part with before the move. I do find it helpful to go through my items in KonMari Method order for a full item review, but if I have done this recently, a quick scan will suffice.

It is helpful to complete a declutter before you begin packing. Try to only work on one action step at a time. If you are decluttering, do not pack up items yet. Staying focused on one action step will help you keep momentum and be more effective with your time. Go through all your things and decide what to keep, then you will be ready to start packing.

Decluttering isn’t just about moving fewer boxes; it’s about creating space for your new life. Subscribe below to download my free decluttering checklist to stay on track!

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