Moving can be a daunting task. It’s a life event that requires meticulous planning, organization, and a lot of patience. But no matter how many times we’ve moved, we often find ourselves with a pile of items that we regret packing. These are items that only add to the clutter of our new homes or are simply unnecessary.
In this blog post, we’ll cover the top 12 things that you’ll probably regret packing for your next move, and give you some advice on how to avoid these common moving mistakes.
1. Outdated Electronics
We all have that drawer filled with outdated electronics, chargers, and cords. While it’s tempting to pack them up and move them to your new home, think twice. These items take up valuable space and are often obsolete. Instead, consider recycling your electronics at a local facility. Many cities have e-waste recycling programs that allow for safe disposal of old electronics.
2. Unused Kitchen Gadgets
Kitchen gadgets are notorious space hogs. If you have gadgets that you haven’t used in the last year, leave them behind. Donate them to a local charity or offer them to a friend who will use them. Moving is a great time to evaluate what you really use and need in your kitchen.
3. Old Clothing
Clothing is another common regretful pack. If you haven’t worn it in a year, it’s time to say goodbye. Donate your old clothing to a local charity or consider selling it online. You’ll free up a lot of space and have less to unpack in your new home.
4. Outgrown Children’s Items
Children grow rapidly, and it’s easy to hang onto toys, clothes, and furniture that they’ve outgrown. However, these items take up a lot of space and are often not used again. Consider donating these items to a local charity, or selling them online.
5. Excessive Decorations
While it’s nice to have decorations for every season and holiday, they can take up a significant amount of space. Consider paring down your decorations to the essentials and the items that have the most sentimental value.
6. Unfinished Projects
We all have those projects that we started but never finished. Whether it’s a half-knit sweater or a piece of furniture that needs to be refinished, these unfinished projects can weigh us down. Consider whether you’ll realistically finish these projects in your new home, and if not, it might be time to let them go.
7. Old Magazines and Books
Books and magazines can quickly add up and become a heavy burden when moving. Consider donating your old magazines to a local library or school. For books, consider which ones you’ll realistically read again or have sentimental value, and donate the rest.
8. Expired Pantry Items
Expired pantry items can easily be overlooked when packing for a move. Take the time to go through your pantry and throw out any expired items. This is also a good time to evaluate what pantry items you actually use and need.
9. Old Makeup and Toiletries
Old makeup and toiletries can accumulate quickly in our bathrooms. However, these items have a shelf life and can expire. Take the time to sort through your makeup and toiletries, and toss any items that are old or expired.
10. Unused Furniture
Furniture can be one of the most challenging items to move. If you have furniture that you don’t use or don’t love, consider selling or donating it before your move. It’s much easier to bring new furniture into a space than it is to move old, unwanted pieces.
11. Duplicates
We often accumulate duplicate items without realizing it. Whether it’s an extra set of dishes, two similar kitchen gadgets, or several pairs of the same shoes, duplicates can quickly clutter our homes. Before you move, take the time to go through your items and get rid of any duplicates.
12. Broken Items
Finally, don’t pack broken items with the intent of fixing them after the move. If you haven’t fixed it by now, chances are you won’t fix it in your new home. Save yourself the space and hassle by getting rid of broken items before you move.