10 Strategies for Decluttering Before Packing

Moving can be a stressful process, especially for busy mums. It can be overwhelming to think of packing up the house and all its contents. To make the process smoother and easier, it's important to declutter before packing. Here are 10 strategies for decluttering before packing to help you streamline the process.

1. Start Early

The earlier you can start decluttering, the better. This will give you time to go through everything in the house and determine what you need to keep and what can be discarded. Start with the most cluttered areas of the house and work your way through the entire house.

2. Make a List

Make a list of the items you want to keep and the items you want to discard. This will help you stay organized and on track. You can also use the list to determine what items need to be packed and what items can be thrown away or donated.

3. Set Goals

Set realistic goals for yourself. Don't try to declutter the entire house in one day. Break the process into manageable chunks and set a goal for each day. This will help you stay motivated and make the process less daunting.

4. Create a System

Create a system for sorting and organizing items. This could include creating categories such as “keep”, “donate”, “sell”, and “trash”. This will make it easier to decide what items you want to keep, donate, or throw away.

5. Start Small

Start with small items such as books, CDs, and DVDs. These items can take up a lot of space and can easily be donated or sold. Once you have gone through these items, it will be easier to move on to larger items.

6. Evaluate Clothing

Go through each family member's clothing and evaluate what can be kept and what can be discarded. Kids grow quickly, so it's important to get rid of clothes that no longer fit. Clothing that is still in good condition can be donated or sold.

7. Sort Toys

Sort through the kids' toys and get rid of any that are broken or no longer played with. Donate or sell toys that are still in good condition. This will help you save space when packing and make it easier to keep the kids’ toys organized in their new home.

8. Consider Sports Equipment

Consider any sports equipment that is taking up space in the house. If the kids are no longer using the equipment, or if they have outgrown it, it's time to get rid of it. Donate or sell any equipment that is still in good condition.

9. Consider Collectables

Consider any collectables that your husband or partner has been storing. If these items are no longer wanted or needed, it's time to let them go. Donate or sell collectables that are still in good condition.

10. Get Help

Don't be afraid to ask for help. If you have family or friends who can help, enlist their assistance. This will make the process go much faster and help to make the transition smoother.

Decluttering your home before a move can seem like an overwhelming task. However, by following these ten tips, you can make the process much easier and less stressful. Start early and make a list so you can stay organised. Set realistic goals and create a system to help you decide what to keep and what to discard. Start with small items such as books, CDs, and DVDs, and then move on to larger items. Go through each family member's clothing, sort through the kids' toys, and consider any sports equipment or collectables that need to be discarded. If you need help, consider hiring a professional to help with the process.

Moving can be stressful, but with a little bit of planning and organisation, you can make the process easier. Start early, break the process into manageable chunks, and create a system for sorting and organising items. With a little bit of effort, you can have your home decluttered and ready for the move in no time! For those who need extra help, there are professionals available who can assist with the process.