Consider decluttering your previous home, as it will help you save money, gain time, reduce stress, and add value to the belongings you choose to keep. To declutter effectively, it’s best to start early, proceed step by step, beginning with large items, then sorting personal belongings, and finally focusing on cupboards.
Why declutter before moving?
• Save money: fewer items mean less volume to transport, which reduces the moving cost and the number of boxes to buy.
• Save time: fewer things to pack, move, and unpack greatly simplifies the moving process.
• Reduce stress: getting rid of the unnecessary can bring a feeling of lightness and well-being, making the change easier.
• Give value to objects: sorting allows you to donate, sell, or recycle items you no longer need, giving them a second life.
How to declutter effectively?
• Set up a timeline: start sorting several months before moving.
◦ 3 months before: sort large furniture, appliances, and bulky items. This is the time to sell or donate them as it usually takes longer.
◦ 1 month before: sort clothes, books, ornaments, etc. These categories often reveal how many unused things we keep.
◦ 1 week before: tackle kitchen and bathroom cupboards. Keep only what will be useful until the very last day.
• Adopt a sorting method:
◦ Sort room by room: start with the room that seems easiest so you don’t get discouraged.
◦ Be strict: if you haven’t used an item in a year, chances are you no longer need it.
◦ Ask yourself whether you need it: assess your needs objectively and consider borrowing or renting items you rarely use.
• Manage the items you want to part with:
◦ Donate: make someone happy by giving items in good condition to friends, family, or charities.
◦ Sell: resell valuable items online or at a garage sale.
◦ Recycle or throw away: bring used items to the waste centre or a recycling facility.
We wish you a smooth preparation for this important step toward your future move to Chocolatier10.