Decluttering leads to feeling lighter – simple as that. It works for every facet of your life, whether it’s spring cleaning or purging before the move. It doesn’t matter if you’re moving to another state or relocating inside the Chicago area. When you declutter and relocate lighter, the mental burden can dissipate with the physical one. Also, your Chicago relocation team will charge less due to less baggage. Here are some pieces of advice on how and where to start.
Step 1: Purge
When you want to go minimalist, you have to be merciless with all your possessions. Go through them and sort out all that you truly don’t need. Go through your closets, pantry, garage, kitchen items, packed Christmas ornaments, books, toys, electrical appliances – everything. Start by categorizing your belongings.
Focus on one room or category at a time, such as clothing or books, to avoid feeling overwhelmed. Ask yourself whether each item serves a purpose, brings joy, or holds significant sentimental value. If not, it’s time to let go. Sorting items into piles—keep, donate, sell, or trash—provides a clear framework for the decluttering process.
Step 2: Sell & Donate
The items for which you can’t find the place anymore can be donated or sold. If you could use the money and have some pieces that are valuable, consider selling them online. If, on the other hand, you want to donate the items to someone, you can check with many charity organizations, but also libraries, schools, or other organizations, depending on what you can offer.
Online platforms like Facebook Marketplace, eBay, and Craigslist are excellent for selling items quickly. For clothing, consider apps like Poshmark or Depop. Hosting a garage sale is another option for offloading multiple items at once.
For donations, local Chicago organizations like Goodwill, Salvation Army, and Habitat for Humanity accept a variety of items, from clothing to furniture. Libraries may take books and media, while schools or shelters often appreciate toys, sports equipment, or household items. Research local drop-off locations or pick-up services to make donating hassle-free.
Step 3: Store Temporarily?
Are you having a tough time saying goodbye to some items? If you want to scale down but are still in doubt about some possessions, think about putting them away in temporary storage. If you have family or friends who have room to keep some of your belongings for a certain period of time, leave them there. Chances are you will realize you don’t need those items anymore, but if that’s what it takes to ease into it, do it.
Renting a storage unit is another practical option, especially if you’re unsure about the future use of certain items or if your new home has limited space. Use storage to keep seasonal decorations, sports gear, or sentimental items you’re not ready to part with. After a few months, revisit the items and evaluate whether they’re worth keeping long-term. Often, out of sight truly becomes out of mind, making it easier to let go.
Step 4: Recycling
After purging, you won’t only come across usable items someone else can be happy with. You will enter the final, trash stage. All the piles with paper, glass, and plastic can be recycled. If you are confused about how and where to recycle certain items, check online about recycling in Chicago. Chicago offers numerous recycling programs and facilities.
Electronics, for example, should be dropped off at designated e-waste recycling centers. Hazardous materials, such as old paint or batteries, require special handling and can be taken to household hazardous waste collection sites. For regular recyclables, familiarize yourself with the city’s curbside recycling program and ensure items are clean and sorted appropriately. Recycling responsibly reduces landfill waste and contributes to a more sustainable environment.
Step 5: Congratulate Yourself
Decluttering, even though it seems easy for some, takes time, dedication, and patience. If you are one of those who find it difficult to part from your precious items, give yourself a pat on the back. You just made your relocation easier. Relocating with fewer items not only lightens your physical load but also alleviates the mental clutter that can accumulate during the moving process.
Celebrate your accomplishment by enjoying the newfound simplicity and space in your life. Whether you’re moving across Chicago or to a different state, you’ve taken a significant step toward a fresh start.
Additional Decluttering Tips for a Smooth Move
- Create a Decluttering Schedule: Set aside specific times to declutter each room or category. Breaking the process into manageable chunks prevents burnout and ensures consistent progress.
- Start with Non-Sentimental Items: Begin with areas like the kitchen or bathroom, where decisions are often more straightforward. Leave sentimental items, such as photographs or keepsakes, for last when you’re more comfortable letting go.
- Get the Whole Family Involved: If you’re moving with family, involve everyone in the decluttering process. Children can sort through toys, while teenagers can evaluate their wardrobe or school supplies.
- Reward Yourself: Plan a small reward after completing each room or milestone. Whether it’s a favorite meal, a movie night, or simply relaxing, celebrating progress keeps you motivated.
Conclusion
Decluttering before a move is more than just an organizational task—it’s a chance to refresh your life and mindset. By purging unnecessary items, selling or donating what you no longer need, and responsibly recycling or storing possessions, you create a streamlined relocation process. Not only will you save on moving costs, but you’ll also feel a sense of accomplishment and lightness. With these steps and tips, your move will be more manageable and rewarding. Best of luck with your decluttering journey and happy moving!
