Decluttering Before Downsizing

Moving from a bigger home to a smaller apartment can feel overwhelming. But it’s also a great chance to create a fresh space that suits your lifestyle and by letting go of things you don’t need, you’ll make room for the items that truly matter.

In this blog, we’ll share simple tips to make your move easier and less stressful.

Why Small Apartments Can Be Great

Living in a smaller apartment has lots of benefits. It’s easier to clean, and your bills, like electricity and utilities, are often much lower. However, moving from a big space to a smaller one can be tricky, especially if you have large furniture or lots of stuff. Cleaning and sorting through everything in a big home takes time, but with some planning, it’s totally doable.

Make a List of Your Belongings

Start by writing down everything you want to take to your new place. This list will help you stay organized and figure out what will fit.

Remember, smaller spaces mean less room for furniture and other big items. Decide what’s most important and what you can leave behind. Before you start packing, gather supplies like boxes, tape, and markers to make the process smoother.

Gather Packing Supplies

Here’s a list of materials you’ll need for packing:

• Boxes in different sizes
• Bubble wrap
• Bags or totes
• Large plastic sheets
• Packing tape
• Markers

These supplies will make it easier to sort, pack, and protect your belongings.

Handle Big Furniture Wisely

Big furniture like tables, chairs, or dressers can take up a lot of space. Here’s how to manage them:

• Measure everything: Use a tape measure to check the size of your furniture and see if it will fit in your new apartment.
• Take it apart: If possible, disassemble furniture to make it easier to move.
• Check doorways and hallways: Make sure your furniture can fit through the entrances and stairs at your new place.

Planning ahead will save you time and effort on moving day.

Measure Your New Space

Before packing, measure your new apartment. This helps you figure out what will fit and how to arrange your furniture.

• Know the dimensions: Measure each room, doorway, and hallway.
• Plan the layout: Sketch a simple plan to decide where everything will go.
• Avoid clutter: If something is too big, consider selling, donating, or storing it.

Taking these steps will help you settle in faster and avoid any surprises.

Sort Your Items

Organize your belongings into these categories:

1. Everyday items: Things you use regularly, like clothes and kitchen tools.
2. Sentimental items: Keepsakes like photos or gifts.
3. Occasional items: Seasonal decorations or rarely used tools.
4. Items to let go of: Anything you don’t use or need anymore.

Sorting your stuff makes it easier to decide what to keep and what to leave behind.

What to Do With Things You Don’t Need

If you have items that won’t fit in your new apartment, here are some options:

1. Sell them
   • Use online platforms like Facebook Marketplace or host a garage sale.
   • Sell to stores that buy used furniture or electronics.
2. Donate them
   • Give clothes, shoes, or household items to charities or local organizations.
   • Share with friends or family who might need them.
3. Store them
   • Rent a storage unit for items you want to keep but don’t have space for.
   • Use creative storage in your new home, like under the bed or on shelves.
4. Recycle them
   • If something can’t be used anymore, check if it can be recycled.

What About a Big Christmas Tree?

If you have a large Christmas tree, it might be tough to fit it in your new home. Here’s what you can do:

• Disassemble it: Take apart the tree and store it in its box or a large container.
• Protect it: Wrap it in plastic or cloth to keep it clean.
• Find storage: Rent a storage unit or consider buying a smaller tree for your new apartment.

Final Thoughts

Moving to a smaller apartment is a chance to start fresh and live simply. By planning ahead, sorting your belongings, and making smart choices, you can create a functional, cozy space that feels like home.

Contact us today for a free estimate at (718)619-4881 and visit our services page for more information.