METCALF MOVING BLOG
A New, Smaller Chapter: Your Guide to Downsizing Your Home
Moving into a smaller home is an exciting opportunity. A new space can transform the way you live, but you’ll need to downsize.
Living in a cluttered home doesn’t only make it hard to find things when you need them, but it also can cause health issues such as stress and anxiety.
Instead of cramming everything you own into your new home, you’ll need to let some items go.
To help you, here are some tips that will make downsizing your home easier.
Tackle the Large Items
When downsizing, the best approach is to address the more significant items first. After all, they take up more space.
Take a quick inventory of your furniture. If you’re moving into a home with fewer bedrooms, you’ll need to get rid of beds.
You should then review your need and space for items like dressers, nightstands, and cabinets and decide which ones to eliminate. A good rule of thumb is to only take the best quality items with you.
Avoid holding on to things like sectional couches and entertainment centers if they don’t make sense in your new home. You’ll end up getting rid of them eventually.
If you decide to get rid of items, be sure to check with local charitable organizations in your area to see if they will accept your things as donations. Another option might be to sell them through various online platforms.
Take Measurements
It pays to take measurements of your new space before you move. This way, you can confirm whether certain items will fit or not.
Don’t try to eyeball it. The last thing you want is to put effort into moving furniture only to find out it’s too big.
Write down the exact dimensions of each room. Then measure the furniture to determine if they’re appropriate for your new home.
Consider the Essentials
It’s incredible how many things we accumulate over the years. Unfortunately, small items that end up on shelves or in the garage do nothing but take up space.
When you start going through your smaller possessions, think about how often you use each one. If the answer is seldom or never, it’s time to get rid of it.
You’ll also want to look for duplicate items. Ask yourself if you need that extra set of bath towels or winter blankets.
The kitchen can also collect a lot of unnecessary items. Only take what you regularly use.
Rethink Your Storage Space
Downsizing doesn’t mean you have to turn into a minimalist. You’ll still have extra items you’ll need to store in closets and cupboards.
The idea is to only store items that make sense and provide functionality. You can then turn your new closets into useful storage spaces.
You may have to do away with some things you’ve been holding onto for sentimental reasons. When faced with this decision, ask yourself how often you look at these items. There’s a good chance that when they’re gone, you won’t miss them.
Don’t Stress Over Downsizing Your Home
Getting rid of items you’ve had for years can be hard to do.
However, if you want to live comfortably in your new home, you’ll need to let some things go. Use the tips discussed above and start downsizing your home in preparation for a fresh start.
If you need professional moving service in the Minneapolis/St. Paul area, Metcalf Moving & Storage can help. Contact us today for a free quote.