Complete Checklist: 17 Things to Get Rid of Before Moving

Moving can be one of the most stressful times of your life, but the upside is that you finally get to say goodbye to all the junk you’ve been holding on to. Decluttering your space also helps declutter your mind, not to mention that it means there is less to pack and load on the moving truck! In this article, we will share 17 items you’ll want to consider tossing, donating, or selling before your residential move. Read on to get ready for your big move and remember that, if you’re moving houses in Colorado, you can always turn to Abe Lincoln Movers for dependable, honest residential moving services.

Expired Medications
Expired medications are not only unlikely to work, but they can be dangerous for children and pets. When disposing of expired medications, make sure to scratch out any personal information on the bottle. You also might want to mix them with something undesirable, such as coffee grounds, dirt, or cat litter to make them less appealing for children.

Clothes That Don’t Fit
While we all understand the temptation of holding onto that pair of jeans that you looked great in fifteen years ago, but now can no longer get a leg in, it’s best to just say goodbye. Doing so will be good for both your closet and your mental health!

Non-Essential Paperwork
You’ll want to invest in a paper shredder or take a trip to an office store for this one. Be sure to thoroughly read all paperwork to make sure that you don’t need it. If you’re unsure, you can always scan a copy into the cloud before shredding it.

Shower Curtains
Shower curtains get gross surprisingly fast. Spend the couple of bucks investing in a new one for your new place rather than bringing your mildewy shower curtain with you.

Discolored Towels
We’ve all got them, and there’s no better time to bid adieu than when shifting homes.

Old Phones and Chargers
If they still work, there’s probably a charity or nonprofit that would be happy to take them. If not, Best Buy and other electronics stores often have recycling kiosks for old gadgets.

Expired Makeup
It’s time to say goodbye to that crusty nail polish bottle hiding in the back of the cabinet. Same for any old foundation, lipstick, eyeshadow, or other makeup. Your pores will thank you.

Worn-Out Shoes
Shoes inevitably wear out over time. You may think you’re going to wear that dilapidated pair of sneakers again, but we think otherwise.

Old Toys
Kids outgrow toys quickly. If your child’s no longer using it, consider donating it to charity or tossing it.

Old Appliances
Does your new place come with a dishwasher, washing machine, or other appliances? Consider donating your old one to Goodwill or Habitat for Humanity.

Unread Books or Books You Won’t Reread
Books are heavy when packed together. Ask yourself if you’re really going to read or reread it, and if the answer is no, say goodbye.

Paint Containers
You’ll probably be buying new paint for your new house, so you can get rid of your old touch-up supplies.

Old Brooms and Mops
These are probably due for a replacement.

Baby Gear
If you aren’t planning on having another one, then pass your baby’s clothes and supplies onto someone who could use them.

Old Greeting Cards
Unless they have especially sentimental value, greeting cards just add to clutter. If you feel bad about saying goodbye to these, take a picture of them on your phone. This is a great way in general to have a memento of items that you’re reticent to get rid of.

Old Kitchen Gadgets
It may be time to walk away from that George Foreman grill that’s been gathering dust in the pantry.

Anything You Forgot You Own
You haven’t needed it this far, odds are you won’t at your new home.

Abe Lincoln Movers has been helping people move across the entire state of Colorado for more than 20 years. We always treat our customers’ belongings with the utmost care, as if they were our own. Be sure to check back on the Abe Lincoln Movers blog for even more moving tips and tricks, and give us a call today to get a quote on your residential or commercial move!