Moving? Don’t Bring These With You
Inspired by our feature in House Beautiful’s latest article on pre-move edits
They say moving is one of life’s most stressful events—but it’s also one of the best opportunities to hit reset. As professional organizers (and one closet designer!) told House Beautiful in their recent piece, the trick is to view your belongings not just as what you own—but as what you actually want to carry into your next chapter.
We were proud to be included in the article, sharing our take on what’s worth leaving behind. Below, we’re expanding on the advice we gave, plus a few of our own favorite guidelines for what to let go of before you even think about packing.
1. Worn-Out Basics
Stretched-out camis, faded leggings, socks with holes... these are the quiet clutter culprits. If it’s not something you’d reach for in your new space, don’t bring it. Invest in upgraded essentials that fit well and feel good.
“Moving is the perfect excuse to replenish your basics with fresh, better-fitting versions.” — Lisa Adams for House Beautiful
2. Shoes That Have Seen Better Days
Uncomfortable, dated, or damaged shoes take up major space in both closets and moving trucks. Be ruthless. This is your chance to upgrade to pairs you’ll actually wear—and proudly display.
3. Duplicates You Don’t Use
From pizza cutters to power drills, if you’ve got more than one and rarely use even one, it’s time to choose a favorite and donate the rest.
4. Expired or Unloved Toiletries
Yes, your dry shampoo has a shelf life. Do a clean sweep of your bathroom and toss anything expired, sticky, or just not right for your routine anymore.
5. Ill-Fitting Furniture
That dresser with the drawer that never quite opens? The too-deep sofa that only fit in one oddly shaped living room? Let it go. Focus on what truly fits—not just in your new space, but your new lifestyle.
6. Cheap Storage Bins
You’re moving forward—your organizing systems should, too. This is a great moment to leave behind mismatched plastic bins and invest in intentional, cohesive storage that actually supports your new space.
7. Aspirational Clutter
The half-finished sewing project. The dusty dumbbells. We all keep things we intend to use someday. If “someday” hasn’t arrived in a year… it probably won’t.
8. Uninspiring Decor
If it doesn’t move you, it’s not worth the move. Let your new home reflect your current aesthetic, not just the one you inherited years ago.
Our Rule of Thumb?
Ask yourself: Would I buy this again for my new home?
If the answer is no, donate, recycle, or toss it. Your move will be lighter, and your new home will feel instantly more elevated.
Want help designing the dream closet that actually fits your life?
We work with clients nationwide to create personalized storage that’s not just functional—but beautiful, too. From wardrobe edits to fully custom millwork, we’re here to help you start fresh in your new space.
