The arrival of spring often inspires a deep-seated desire to clean and refresh our living spaces. When you’re also planning a move, this seasonal urge becomes a golden opportunity. Combining your spring cleaning for move preparation is one of the smartest things you can do. By decluttering before you even start packing, you set the stage for a relocation that is not only more organized but also more cost-effective and far less stressful.
Think of it as the ultimate fresh start—a chance to leave behind what no longer serves you and begin the next chapter in your new Edmonton home with intention and clarity.
Why is Decluttering Essential Before a Move?
Taking the time to sort through your belongings before the moving trucks arrive is more than just tidying up; it’s a strategic investment in a smoother transition. The benefits are significant:
- Save Money: Moving costs are often calculated by weight and volume. The fewer items you have, the less you’ll pay for transportation and packing supplies.
- Save Time & Energy: Less stuff means less to pack, less to load, less to unload, and, most importantly, less to unpack and organize in your new home.
- Reduce Stress: Walking into a new space filled only with items you need and love is calming. A cluttered move, on the other hand, transfers chaos from one home to another.
- A True Fresh Start: Decluttering allows you to curate your new environment, making conscious decisions about the lifestyle you want to create.
When to Start Your Pre-Move Decluttering
To avoid last-minute panic, it’s wise to start the decluttering process well in advance.
Recommendation: Begin decluttering 4 to 6 weeks before your moving day.
This timeframe allows you to tackle your home section by section without feeling rushed. It gives you enough time to make thoughtful decisions, arrange for donations, sell valuable items, and properly dispose of others. If you know your home has significant clutter, starting even earlier is always a good idea.
The Room-by-Room Decluttering Checklist
The most effective strategy is to go room by room. Grab four boxes or create four designated zones and label them: Keep, Donate, Dispose, and Sell.
- The Kitchen & Pantry
Dispose: Expired spices, canned goods, and non-perishables.
Donate: Duplicate gadgets (do you really need three can openers?), unused small appliances, or extra sets of dishes.
Keep: Pack essential, non-perishable food items you’ll use immediately. Plan to use up frozen and refrigerated foods before moving day. - Bedrooms & Closets
The One-Year Rule: If you haven’t worn an item of clothing in the past year, it’s time to let it go.
Sort through: Old shoes, worn-out bedding, and accessories you no longer use.
Be ruthless with: Broken hangers, single socks, and anything that doesn’t fit or make you feel good. - The Living & Family Room
Examine: DVDs, CDs, old magazines, and books you won’t read again.
Assess: Worn-out throw pillows, blankets, and decor that no longer matches your style.
Check: Unused electronics, old cables, and remote controls for devices you no longer own. - The Bathroom
Dispose: Safely get rid of expired medications and nearly empty or expired toiletries.
Consolidate: Combine half-empty bottles of shampoo or lotion if possible.
Review: Old, stained, or frayed towels and bathmats. - The Garage, Basement & Storage Areas
Be honest: These areas often hide things we’ve forgotten we own. Be honest about what you will realistically use in your new home.
Properly dispose of: Old paint, chemicals, and hazardous materials at an Eco Station.
Sort through: Broken tools, old sporting equipment, and holiday decorations that have seen better days.
Where to Donate or Dispose of Items in Edmonton
Once you’ve sorted your piles, it’s time to find them a new home. Edmonton has excellent resources:
For Donations:
- Goodwill: Accepts clothing, household goods, and electronics. Multiple locations and donation centres across the city.
- The Salvation Army Thrift Stores: A great option for furniture, clothing, and various home goods.
- Bissell Centre Thrift Shoppe: Your donations of clothing and small household items help fund programs to support people experiencing poverty.
- Habitat for Humanity ReStore: The perfect place for donating new and gently used furniture, appliances, and building materials.
For Disposal & Recycling:
- Edmonton Eco Stations: The designated spot for household hazardous waste, electronics, large appliances, and excess garbage.
- Big Bin Events: The City of Edmonton hosts events for large items that can’t be set out with regular collection. Check the city’s website for dates.
Tips for Organizing the “Keep” Pile
Now that you’re left with only the essentials, make the next step—packing—even easier.
- Group Like with Like: Keep all kitchen items together, all books together, etc.
- Label Everything: Use detailed labels on your boxes. Instead of just “Kitchen,” write “Kitchen – Pots & Pans” or “Kitchen – Everyday Dishes.”
- Create an “Open First” Box: Fill one box with absolute essentials for your first 24 hours: a coffee maker, toiletries, medications, phone chargers, basic tools, paper towels, and a change of clothes for everyone in the family.
By dedicating time to spring cleaning for your move, you’re not just clearing out clutter—you’re paving the way for a seamless and positive moving experience.
Ready to take the next step? Once you’re decluttered, the team at Stallion Vanlines is here to help with professional packing and moving services. Contact us today for a free quote and let’s get you moving!
