6 Tasks Minimalists Do Before Moving for an Organized Home

If there’s ever a perfect time to go minimalist, it’s moving day.

“There’s something powerful about the clean slate of a new space,” says Jen Noseworthy, founder of Simply Sorted with Deaks and a certified minimalist-at-heart. “It’s like your home is giving you permission to let go of the excess—and only bring what truly matters.”

We asked Noseworthy to break down the go-to habits minimalists rely on before a move. Whether you’re relocating across the country or just across town, her tips will help you lighten the load—physically and mentally.

Declutter Before You Even Touch a Box

Noseworthy explains how people often assume packing is the first step, but the real work starts way before that. She recommends taking a room-by-room inventory and getting brutally honest with your belongings.

Ask yourself two key questions: Do I use this? Do I love this? If the answer to either is no, it’s time to let it go.

“Sentimental maybe’s and ‘just in case’ items are the clutter that weighs us down,’” she says. “If it hasn’t added value in the past year, it probably won’t in your next space either.”

Instead of boxing up things you don’t truly need, sort them into donation, recycle, or sell piles—and do it before the packing tape comes out.

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Ditch the Duplicates

Decluttering doesn’t have to be complicated. A quick win? Eliminate duplicates. Extra kitchen gadgets, linens, and office supplies tend to accumulate quietly, but take up prime space.

Minimalists keep only what they actually use—one great spatula instead of four, one towel set per person, one set of sheets per bed. It may mean doing laundry more often, but it also means fewer piles, less decision fatigue, and more breathing room in your space.

Digitize the Paper Clutter

Paper clutter is one of the most overlooked categories during a move. Old utility bills, warranties, receipts, and even photo prints can take up entire file drawers.

Noseworthy suggests scanning anything worth keeping and storing it digitally. Use clear naming systems and organize files into folders. You’ll save space, reduce stress, and avoid the headache of digging through mystery paperwork in your next home.

Deep Clean Before the First Box Arrives

There’s a small but mighty window of opportunity between when your new home is empty and when your things arrive. Use that time to give it a thorough clean—especially the areas that are hard to reach once furniture is in place.

Baseboards, inside cabinets, light switches, and closet corners are all easier to clean before a single box crosses the threshold. A fresh, clean slate helps set the tone for intentional living from day one.

Take Measurements of Your New Home

Minimalists don’t just think about what to bring—they also think about where it will go.

“There’s nothing more disheartening than the moment someone realizes their dream couch has turned their cozy space into a cramped obstacle course,” says Noseworthy.

Grab a tape measure (or your phone’s measuring app) and size up your new space before the move. Pay attention to doorway widths, ceiling heights, and wall lengths.

“If something doesn’t fit—physically or visually—let it go before moving day,” she advises. “Don’t let oversized furniture or storage bins hijack your fresh start.”

Unpack Slowly and Intentionally

Minimalists approach unpacking a little differently.

“You don’t have to tear through every box in the first 48 hours,” Noseworthy says. “Unpack what you need—then pause.”

Give yourself a week or two to see what you actually reach for. If a box stays untouched, that’s your sign: what’s inside may not be essential.

“Out of sight, out of mind can be a blessing here,” she explains. “It gives you the emotional distance to let go without guilt.”