Moving to a new home can be both an exciting and daunting task. It’s an opportunity to start fresh, but it also means packing up everything you own and transporting it to a new location. To make this process more manageable, it’s essential to declutter and get rid of items you no longer need or use. Here are some things you should consider tossing before you move.
Old Clothes and Shoes
Closets can quickly become cluttered with clothes and shoes that are no longer worn. Before moving, take the time to evaluate your wardrobe. If you haven’t worn something in the last year, it’s probably time to donate or discard it. Consider donating gently used items to local charities or thrift stores; someone else might find joy in them.
Expired or Unused Beauty Products
Makeup, skincare, and other beauty products have expiration dates, and using them past this point can be ineffective or even harmful. Go through your bathroom cabinets and toss out any old or unused products. Only keep items that you regularly use and are still within their shelf life. This will reduce clutter and ensure you’re only moving essentials.
Outdated Electronics and Cords
Technology evolves quickly, and outdated electronics can pile up. Gather all old phones, chargers, and cords you no longer use or that no longer work. Electronics should be disposed of responsibly, so look for local e-waste recycling programs to ensure they are recycled properly.
Books and Magazines
Books are wonderful, but they can also be heavy and cumbersome to move. Go through your collection and decide which books you truly love and want to keep. Donate or sell those you no longer need. The same goes for magazines; if they’ve already been read, consider recycling them.
Kitchen Gadgets and Appliances
Kitchens can be a treasure trove of unused gadgets and appliances. As you prepare to move, think about which items you actually use regularly. If you haven’t used that bread maker or ice cream machine in over a year, it might be time to part ways. Donate or sell these items to make room for more practical kitchen tools.
Old Furniture
Furniture can be bulky and expensive to move, so it’s worth evaluating whether each piece is worth taking with you. If a piece is damaged, outdated, or doesn’t fit your style, consider selling or donating it. You can use the proceeds to purchase new furniture that better suits your new space.
Toys and Games
If you have children, chances are you have a collection of toys and games that are no longer played with. Involve your kids in the decluttering process by asking them to choose toys they’d like to donate or sell. This can be a great opportunity to teach children about giving and making thoughtful decisions.
Paperwork and Documents
Stacks of old bills, receipts, and paperwork can quickly accumulate. Before moving, go through your files and shred any documents you no longer need. Keep only essential documents like tax returns, legal papers, and warranties.
Decluttering before a move not only makes the process easier but also allows you to create a cleaner, more organized living space in your new home. Remember, the goal is to only take what you truly need and love, making your new house feel like a home from day one. And when you’re ready to move into your next home, contact Diane Waschenko (to buy or sell) and she will make the process smooth and easy. 914-447-5847