Hump Day Home Hacks: Decluttering 101 – How to Maximize Space Before a Move (SLC Edition)

Moving in Salt Lake City can be an exciting new chapter—whether you’re upgrading to a bigger Sugar House bungalow, downsizing to a chic Central 9th condo, or chasing mountain views in Emigration Canyon. But before you start packing boxes and labeling them with Sharpies, there’s one task that can make your move so much easier: decluttering.

Here’s your simple, no-stress guide to clearing out the clutter and making space before you move, tailored for Salt Lake City homes.

🏡 Why Declutter Before a Move?

Decluttering saves time, money, and your sanity. The less you move, the less you spend on boxes, movers, and hours of unpacking stuff you forgot you owned. Plus, if you're selling your home, a clutter-free space feels bigger, cleaner, and more inviting for potential buyers.

🔁 Start With the “One Room, One Day” Rule

Trying to tackle everything at once is a recipe for burnout. Instead, go room-by-room—maybe start with that underused guest room or the garage full of ski gear and “someday” tools. Pro tip: if it hasn’t been used since last ski season, it might be time to let it go.

📦 Sort Like a Pro: The 4-Box Method

Grab four bins or boxes and label them:

Keep
Donate
Sell
Trash

Be honest with yourself—if that fondue set hasn’t seen daylight since your 2016 housewarming, you probably don’t need to bring it to your next place.

🛑 Pause Before Packing "Maybes"

Salt Lakers love outdoor hobbies and home projects, which means our closets and sheds fill up fast. If you’re on the fence about an item, set it aside in a “Maybe” box. If you don’t reach for it before moving day—it probably doesn’t deserve a spot in the moving truck.

🧘‍♀️ Think of It as a Fresh Start

Moving into a new space—whether it’s a Capitol Hill charmer or a South Salt Lake starter—is your chance to reset. Picture how you want your next home to feel, and only bring what fits that vision. (Minimalist mudroom, anyone?)

🌱 Bonus: Where to Donate in Salt Lake City

Decluttering doesn’t have to mean waste. Here are a few local spots that will happily give your stuff a second life:

Deseret Industries – Multiple locations across the valley.
The Other Side Thrift Boutique – Supports recovery programs.
Habitat for Humanity ReStore – Great for home improvement donations.
The Road Home – Accepts clothing and household items for local families in need.

🚪One Box at a Time

Decluttering can feel overwhelming, but just like moving, it's all about momentum. One drawer, one closet, one box at a time—and suddenly, your space (and your mind) feels lighter.

Whether you're prepping to list your home or gearing up for the big day, a clutter-free start is one of the best gifts you can give yourself. And if you're not sure what to do with all that new space, well, that’s a great excuse to go furniture shopping (hello, City Creek and local estate sales!).

Need help getting your home market-ready or looking for your next Salt Lake City adventure? I'm just a call or message away.

—Annie