Moving to a new home can be an exciting, albeit stressful, experience. With the thrill of a fresh start comes the daunting task of sorting through your belongings, deciding what to pack up with you and what to leave behind.
While it may be tempting to bring everything along, some items are better left behind for a lighter move and a more clutter-free new start. Here are 10 things that you might want to reconsider packing in your moving truck.
1. Outdated Electronics
We all have that drawer or box filled with old cell phones, chargers, and other electronics that we haven’t used in years. While it’s easy to think you might need them “just in case,” the reality is they’re probably just taking up valuable space.
Consider recycling these outdated electronics before you move. Many electronics stores have recycling programs that will safely dispose of your old devices. Not only will this lighten your load, but it’s also a more environmentally friendly option. Plus, if you have electronics that still work but are just outdated, you could donate them to a local charity.
2. Old Furniture
If you’ve been using the same furniture for years and it’s starting to show signs of wear and tear, it might be time to let it go. Moving is the perfect opportunity to refresh your living space with new, more modern furniture.
Before you move, take inventory of your furniture and decide what’s worth keeping. If a piece is damaged or just doesn’t fit with your new home’s decor, consider selling it or donating it. Many charities will even pick up large furniture items directly from your home.
3. Unused Kitchenware
From excess pots and pans to kitchen gadgets you’ve never used, your kitchen is likely filled with items that you can leave behind. These items can take up a surprising amount of space in your moving boxes.
Before packing up your kitchen, go through all your kitchenware. If there are items you haven’t used in the past year, chances are you won’t use them in your new home. Consider donating these items to a local charity or selling them at a garage sale.
4. Old Clothes
It’s easy to accumulate a lot of clothes over the years. But if you’re moving, it’s a good idea to go through your wardrobe and get rid of anything you no longer wear.
Not only will this free up closet space in your new home, but it can also make packing and moving easier. Plus, any clothes in good condition can be donated to a local charity or sold online.
5. Unused Exercise Equipment
If you have exercise equipment gathering dust in your home, it might be time to let it go. These items are bulky and heavy, making them difficult to move.
Consider selling your unused exercise equipment or donating it. Many schools or community centers would be happy to take it off your hands.
6. Old Paint Cans
Old paint cans are hazardous to move and can take up a lot of space. If you have cans that are nearly empty or that contain a color you won’t use in your new home, it’s best to dispose of them properly before you move.
Check with your local waste disposal facility to find out how to dispose of old paint cans. They often require special handling due to their hazardous nature.
7. Unfinished Projects
We all have unfinished projects lying around our homes. Whether it’s a DIY craft, home improvement project, or a book you’ve been meaning to read, if you haven’t completed it by now, chances are you won’t in your new home.
Consider donating any materials or supplies from these projects to a local school or community center. They might be able to put them to good use.
8. Outgrown Children’s Items
Children grow out of clothes, toys, and furniture quickly. If your kids have outgrown items, there’s no point in bringing them to your new home.
Consider hosting a garage sale or donating these items to a local charity. Not only will this free up space, but it can also help other families in need.
9. Old Magazines and Books
If you’re a book lover or magazine enthusiast, it’s easy to accumulate a large collection. However, these items can take up a lot of space and can be heavy to move.
Before you move, go through your collection and decide what’s worth keeping. Consider donating any books or magazines you no longer want to a local library or school.
10. Excess Decorations
While holiday decorations can bring joy and festivity to your home, they can also take up a lot of storage space. If you have decorations for every holiday and season, consider downsizing before your move.
Keep only the decorations you truly love and use. Consider donating the rest to a local charity or selling them at a garage sale. This will free up storage space in your new home and make your move a bit easier.
