Planning a move around the Charlotte area? Don’t pack a single box until you’ve tackled one of the most important (and often underrated) checklist tasks: decluttering.
Decluttering makes everything easier. It simplifies packing, cleaning, and even selling your home. It helps buyers see your space clearly, makes rooms feel larger, and cuts down on moving costs by eliminating what you don’t actually need.
Below is a room-by-room checklist that’s simple, fast, and realistic enough to finish without feeling overwhelmed.
Decluttering the Kitchen
The kitchen is often the most packed and chaotic room in the house. Start here early to build momentum.
- Toss expired food from the pantry, fridge, and freezer.
- Donate non-expired food you won’t eat before moving.
- Remove duplicates of tools like spatulas, peelers, and measuring cups.
- Let go of unused gadgets such as bread makers or single-use appliances.
- Sort plasticware and recycle anything with missing lids or cracks.
- Reduce dishes by keeping just one set per person and donating the rest.
- Clean out the junk drawer and only keep useful tools like scissors or tape.
Decluttering the Bathroom
A clean, clutter-free bathroom looks bigger and more sanitary to buyers. It also means fewer small items to pack at the last minute.
- Throw away expired products like medications, sunscreen, and makeup.
- Toss empty or nearly-empty bottles.
- Get rid of hotel samples and products you never used.
- Minimize duplicates of razors, lotions, and toothbrushes.
- Wipe out cabinets and drawers and only restock the items you’re taking with you.
- Donate clean towels or washcloths that you no longer use.
Tip: Create a small personal travel kit for each person and keep it accessible during your move.
Bedroom & Closets
Moving is a great time to streamline your wardrobe and make better use of storage.
- Use the 1-year rule. If you haven’t worn it in a year, donate it.
- Let go of “someday” clothes that no longer fit or suit your style.
- Cut down your shoe collection to the pairs you actually wear.
- Reduce accessories like hats, bags, and belts.
- Sort under-bed storage and keep only what’s necessary.
- Clear nightstands and dressers of receipts, cords, and clutter.
Living Room Decluttering Checklist
This space is often a selling point: 96% of real estate agents recommend decluttering before listing for better appeal, and 29% of agents say staging (including decluttering) raises sale prices. So, aim for a clean, calm look with minimal distractions.
- Remove personal photos and items to help buyers visualize the space as their own.
- Limit throw pillows and decor to just a few neutral pieces.
- Recycle old magazines and books you no longer need.
- Clear out media cabinets and only keep what you’ll actually use.
- Say goodbye to broken furniture or bulky pieces you won’t bring along.
- Check behind and under furniture for cords, toys, or trash.
Tip: Try to keep most surfaces clear to make the space look larger and more open.
Kids’ Rooms & Toy Decluttering Checklist
If your children are old enough, get them involved to make the process smoother.
- Sort toys into keep, donate, and toss piles.
- Throw out broken or incomplete sets.
- Limit how many stuffed animals or books stay out.
- Pack up seasonal or outgrown items now.
- Use the same 1-year rule for clothing.
Garage, Attic, and Storage Areas
These spaces are often packed with forgotten items, so start early and work in short sessions.
- Toss broken tools or spare parts you’ll never use.
- Donate usable paint, garden supplies, or chemicals (check disposal rules first).
- Sort through seasonal items and holiday decor.
- Get rid of boxes you never unpacked from your last move.
- Label storage bins clearly and only keep what has a purpose.
Ask These Questions After the Decluttering Checklist
To stay focused, ask yourself these simple questions with every item:
- Have I used this in the last year?
- Do I need it in my next home?
- Would I buy this again today?
- Is it in good enough condition to keep?
If the answer is no, it’s time to let it go.
Other Maintenance While You Declutter
Decluttering gives you a good chance to spot problems that might show up in a home inspection. As you move items off shelves or out of storage, take a quick look at what’s behind them.
The EPA warns that clutter traps moisture, dust, and allergens and can mask water damage or mold
Check under sinks and around appliances for signs of leaks or water damage. Keep an eye out for stains, cracked tiles, or soft spots on the walls or floors. If you’re in the attic, look for signs of moisture, pests, or missing insulation. While you’re at it, test light switches and outlets to make sure everything works.
You don’t have to fix everything right now, but writing down what you notice can help you decide what’s worth repairing before you sell. The fewer surprises during your inspection, the smoother your home sale is likely to be.
When to Call a Professional
If you’re planning to sell, this is the right time to schedule a pre-listing home inspection. It’s one of the easiest ways to avoid last-minute stress later.
A home inspector can point out issues you may have missed while decluttering, like problems behind walls, under floors, or in hard-to-reach areas. This gives you time to take care of repairs before buyers get involved, which can help you avoid delays or price negotiations down the line.
AHI has worked with many Charlotte homeowners to get their homes ready to sell. If you’re unsure whether your home is really ready, we can give you the answers before your buyer starts asking questions.
Conclusion
Decluttering your home before a move doesn’t have to be a big project: with this checklist, it will be especially simple. If you follow a room-by-room checklist and stay focused on what matters, you can pack less, move faster, and get your home in great shape for what’s next.
And if your next step is listing your home, AHI is here to help. Schedule your pre-listing inspection today to make sure your home is ready and that nothing catches you off guard during a sale.
