How to Downsize Your Home Before a Move

So, you want to move into a smaller space but can’t imagine all of the stuff you have to move, much less get rid of? Decluttering and downsizing can be an overwhelming and daunting task. If you’ve been in the same home for several years or have recently had your children move out, leaving you with an empty nest, you may have an abundance of stuff in your house that you simply don’t need or want anymore. At Starr Dumpsters, we understand your pain so we’ve gathered a few tips and tricks to help you downsize your home before a move. 

Take Note of Your Stuff

When you’re downsizing your home, you won’t have space for all of the clutter you’ve been keeping around for years. You’ll have to really think about what stuff you must absolutely keep and what things you can live without. It won’t be an easy task so you’ll have to be in control of your emotions. Being emotionally attached to our belongings can make us accumulate things that we never use. When you’re going through your items, ask yourself, “have I used this in the last year?” Chances are, if you haven’t used it in any season of the last year, you won’t need it. Donating such items to a charity or an individual who needs it will not only help you to declutter but could bring you joy too. 

Take It Slow

Decluttering an entire home in one day is impossible. Tackle one room at a time. Starting with a room you don’t use often may get the process moving faster. Once that room is sorted and decluttered, repeat the process with the next least used room. It may be a multiple day process but you’ll need the break as decluttering and downsizing is not an easy task. Organizing the items in each room into boxes may also help identify and minimize duplicate items. Create three boxes, one box for items you will keep, one for items you will throw out, and one for items you will pass down or donate. For the items that you will keep, it may help to later divide those into items you will put into storage and items for regular use.

Get Rid of Unwanted Items

There are several different ways to get rid of items you will no longer keep. You could host a garage sale which can help bring in a little extra cash before your move. One man’s trash may be another’s treasure. Once you’ve had a garage sale and still have items left over, you could donate to a charity or shelter of your choice. 

Rent A Dumpster

Maybe some of your items are too old or damaged to sell or donate. In this case, renting a dumpster will help to easily get rid of these items like furniture and appliances. If you’ve found these tips helpful or would like to learn more about how Starr Dumpsters can help you, get in touch with our team today! We’ll be happy to be a part of your decluttering and downsizing journey as you prepare to move.