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Moving home · 2 min read

How to declutter before moving house

Decluttering before a move is easier when you picture where each item will go at the other end. Start with the things you won’t need before moving day and work in small batches. Save the essentials and difficult decisions for a time when you can give them proper attention.

Labelled moving boxes in a sunlit sitting room

Use the new floor plan to make decisions

List the furniture and bulky belongings you plan to bring. Compare their dimensions with the rooms, doors and storage you know about. If a new room is smaller, decide what has a clear place there first. Set aside anything you need to measure again before committing.

Do the same with everyday categories. If the new kitchen has fewer cupboards, work out how many of your dishes, appliances and pans you regularly use before you pack the extras.

Sort the easiest categories first

Try spare linens, duplicate kitchen equipment or books you’re ready to pass on. Put things you’ve decided to keep directly into boxes and label their destination. If you come across memories, documents or other items that need time, set them aside and continue the category you started.

Keep a short list of things you intend to sell, donate or take for recycling. Check which items your chosen organisation accepts and arrange any drop-off or collection before moving week.

Keep the last week simple

In the final week, focus on getting the boxes you’ve already sorted ready to move. Set aside a first-night kit and make sure anything you still need stays accessible. Avoid starting a cupboard you won’t have time to finish.

  • Measure bulky items and check where they’ll go.
  • Label boxes for their destination in the new home.
  • Put removal dates against anything you intend to pass on.