At Little Red Wagon Moving, we know how stressful moving can be, especially when you’re starting down a house full of stuff you don’t want to take with you. Whether you’re preparing for a local move or planning a long-distance relocation out of Colorado Springs, learning how to declutter before moving is one of the smartest ways to reduce stress and cut moving costs. Our friendly team of Colorado Springs movers has helped hundreds of families simplify their transitions. Below are our top strategies to help you declutter your space and pack with purpose.
Feeling Overwhelmed? Here’s How to Start Decluttering
It’s easy to feel buried in stuff before a move, especially with paperwork, junk drawers, and storage bins that you forgot existed. But decluttering doesn’t have to be miserable. With the right mindset (and maybe some music), you can turn the chaos into a fresh start.
Start small, start early. Decluttering isn’t about doing it all in one day. Tackle one category at a time and build momentum.
Decluttering Methods That Work for Moving
There are plenty of decluttering techniques that all offer a way to get rid of your unwanted household items before moving. We have compiled a list of the most useful tips and tricks to help you in the process of clearing out your home.
1. Use the box method
Grab three boxes, label them Keep, Donate, and Toss. This simple system helps you stay focused and allows you to sort everything with a clear action plan.
2. Declutter by category, not by room
Instead of cleaning room by room, pick one item type (i.e., books, clothes, kitchen gadgets) and declutter that category across your whole home.
3. Don’t start with daily essentials
Save the items you use every day, such as toiletries, kitchen tools, and work gear, for last. You’ll reduce stress and avoid packing something too soon.
4. Use the “Joy + Practicality” Rule
Ask yourself two questions:
- Does this bring me joy?
- Have I used it in the last year?
If you answer “no” to both, it’s time to let it go.
5. Give yourself time
Rome wasn’t built in a day, and neither was your clutter. Starting weeks in advance gives you space to make smart decisions instead of rushed ones.
What to Do With Unwanted Items
Once you’ve decided what to get rid of, here’s how to offload it responsibly:
- Donate it: Check local Colorado Springs donation centers (like Goodwill or Arc Thrift) and confirm they accept what you’re offering.
- Recycle it: Electronics, old paint, and certain plastics need special handling. Research your local recycling options.
- Sell it: Host a garage sale or use Facebook Marketplace to earn some extra cash.
- Toss it: If it’s broken, expired, or unsalvageable, throw it away, but try to minimize landfill waste when possible.
Declutter With Colorado Springs’ Most Trusted Movers
At Little Red Wagon Moving, we help Colorado Springs families move smarter, not harder. Whether you need long-distance movers or just help cleaning out your garage, our Happy Movers are here to help with the care and respect your belongings deserve.
Contact us today to request your free quote and start your stress-free move.
