Summer Decluttering

Written By Terri Tripp

Summer Decluttering

What to DONATE | What to TOSS | What to SELL Before You Move

Your complete guide to clearing space, saving money, and starting fresh.

If you’re moving this summer, you’re in good company! Summer is the busiest moving season of the year. But before the moving boxes come out and the truck pulls up, there’s one step that will make your entire move easier, cheaper, and less stressful: DECLUTTERING.

Whether you’re downsizing, upgrading, or relocating across the country, summer is the perfect time to clear out what you no longer need. Not only will you save money on moving costs, but you’ll also arrive in your new home with less to unpack and more room to enjoy.

This guide will walk you through exactly what to donate, toss, or sell before your move—plus quick tips to get it done without overwhelm. And at the end, you’ll find the Ultimate Decluttering Checklist to make sure you don’t miss a thing.

Why Declutter Before a Move?

Decluttering isn’t just about getting rid of “stuff.” It’s about making your move smoother and your new home more peaceful. Here’s why it matters:

  • Save on moving costs – Fewer boxes mean less packing time, lower labor fees, and potentially smaller truck rentals.

  • Pack faster – When you only keep what you love and use, the packing process becomes simpler and quicker.

  • Avoid cluttering your new home – Don’t bring unused or broken items into a fresh space.

  • Help others – Donate items in good condition to local charities, shelters, or community organizations.

  • Feel lighter emotionally – Decluttering can be surprisingly energizing, giving you a fresh start in more ways than one.

What to Declutter This Summer

CLOTHING

Donate:

  • Items you haven’t worn in the past year

  • Outgrown kids’ clothes

  • Duplicate wardrobe pieces

Toss:

  • Torn, stained, or unwearable items

Sell:

  • Designer or name-brand clothing in great condition

Where to DONATE: Goodwill, Salvation Army, local shelters, Dress for Success
Where to SELL: Poshmark, ThredUp, Facebook Marketplace

BOOKS | MAGAZINES | PAPERS

Donate:

  • Gently used books to libraries, schools, or senior centers

Toss:

  • Outdated magazines

  • Old school papers you no longer need

  • Damaged books

Sell:

  • Rare editions or recent bestsellers

Where to DONATE: Little Free Library, local literacy programs
Where to SELL: Half Price Books, eBay

KITCHEN ITEMS

Donate:

  • Extra dish sets, mugs, or utensils

  • Small appliances you rarely use

Toss:

  • Chipped or broken cookware

  • Expired food or spices

Sell:

  • Air fryers, mixers, or blenders in excellent condition

Where to DONATE: Churches, food banks (non-perishables), Habitat for Humanity ReStores

FURNITURE | DECOR

Donate:

  • Nightstands, bookshelves, rugs, gently used décor

Toss:

  • Broken, stained, or unsafe furniture

  • Outdated electronics that no longer work

Sell:

  • Couches, accent chairs, patio sets, framed art

Where to SELL: OfferUp, Craigslist, Nextdoor, Facebook Marketplace, consignment shops

ELECTRONICS | ENTERTAINMENT

Donate:

  • Older but working tablets, DVD players, board games

Toss:

  • Broken cords, obsolete tech

Sell:

  • Gaming systems, smart devices, headphones

Recycle/Trade-In: Best Buy’s electronics recycling, Gazelle

Quick Decluttering Tips

  • Use the 3-Box Method: Label bins “Donate,” “Toss,” and “Sell” and sort as you pack.

  • Start Early: Begin at least 4–6 weeks before moving day.

  • Set Small Goals: Declutter one drawer, closet, or cabinet per day.

  • Host a Yard Sale: Make extra cash while clearing out.

  • Get the Family Involved: Turn it into a summer challenge with a prize for the most items decluttered.

The Ultimate Decluttering Checklist

Clothing & Accessories:

  • Items not worn in a year

  • Shoes that don’t fit or are damaged

  • Old handbags or backpacks

  • Hats, scarves, or belts you never use

Books, Papers & Media:

  • Outdated magazines

  • School papers you no longer need

  • Damaged books

  • Duplicate DVDs or CDs

Kitchen:

  • Extra mugs or glassware

  • Duplicate utensils

  • Small appliances you never use

  • Expired food or spices

Furniture & Décor:

  • Worn-out couches or chairs

  • Unused rugs

  • Outdated or broken décor pieces

  • Damaged shelves or tables

Electronics:

  • Broken chargers or cables

  • Outdated cell phones or tablets

  • Non-working TVs or DVD players

  • Unused gaming systems

Miscellaneous:

  • Old sports equipment

  • Expired cleaning supplies

  • Toys your kids have outgrown

  • Extra bedding or towels you never use

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Decluttered and Ready to Move?

Once you’ve cleared the clutter, you’ll be amazed at how much lighter your move feels—literally and emotionally.

Let A Better Tripp Moving & Storage take you there with white-glove care and rental home expertise. Whether you're heading for city life, country quiet, or ocean breeze. We’ll handle the heavy lifting so you can focus on living your best life.

  • Full Packing & Crating

  • Local, State-to-State, or Cross-Country Moves

  • Specialized handling for antiques, art, and high-value items

  • Service with Southern hospitality—no matter where you go!

    Let’s get you moving—request your free quote today!

    ___________________________

Want a stress-free move from professionals who care?
Get a FREE quote today or relocation tips tailored to your needs!

CALL (713) 266-8348 or complete the FORM below to get your custom moving quote today.
Let’s make your next move A Better Tripp!

Terri Tripp
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