Home remodels are exciting. The prospect of a refreshed, and more functional and comfortable space can make the upheaval worth it for any homeowner. But how can you possibly get a renovation started if your home is full of items you no longer use or have nowhere to store? And it’s not just about making room for the for the builders. Decluttering will also protect your belongings, reduces stress, and results in a smoother renovation with minimal delays. Here are some practical strategies to help streamline your possessions well before the first wall comes down, from early planning through to eco-friendly disposal options.
Start decluttering early: The 6-month rule
Six months is a long time, but if you begin decluttering well before the remodel, you can make thoughtful decisions rather than panicking and getting rid of useful items a week before the renovation. With ongoing supply chain delays since Brexit and the pandemic, renovation timelines can shift unpredictably, so you need to prepared if your project accelerates or materials arrive sooner than expected. Start by taking a room-by-room inventory. Walk through each space with a notebook or app and list everything (including what to replace once the renovation finishes). This makes it easier to decide what to keep, pack away, repair, or get rid of. Try aiming for just one room per weekend to keep it manageable.
Use the four-box system: Keep, donate, recycle, bin
The four-box method is a tried and true system to avoid getting bogged down in decluttering. Items you love or use go in ‘keep’. Usable items can be donated. If something is broken or obsolete, it can be recycled (but remember that under WEEE regulations, you must take laptops, kettles, cables, and other electricals to a designated recycling point). Only put something in ‘bin’ as a last resort. If you have a sofa or other large furniture that is in good condition, charities like the British Heart Foundation offer free furniture collections, which can be a lifesaver during pre-renovation clear-outs.
Self-storage options to protect your possessions during the renovation
If your remodel involves messy or large-scale work like knocking through walls, rewiring, or replacing flooring, you’ll definitely need secure off-site storage. Decide between traditional storage units and mobile storage pods. Units offer predictable space and security, while pods provide doorstep convenience (ideal if you’re packing slowly). If you need accessible, flexible space, you have a range of options for self storage in Manchester with unit sizes suitable for everything from boxed belongings to entire rooms’ worth of furniture. Pack methodically: wrap delicate items, label all boxes box clearly, and keep any essentials near the front to you can get to them quickly.
Avoid adding to the landfill with eco-friendly disposal
Before booking a skip, look into greener disposal routes for the stuff you don’t want to keep. With the UK’s household recycling rate at just 44.4%, better waste management is crucial. Your council will offer bulky waste collections. It’s faster to go with a private clearance firm, but check their recycling credentials so your items don’t end up in a landfill. Use community platforms like Freecycle and Olio so you can pass on usable items to neighbours.
Declutter ahead of time for a stress-free home remodel
Think of decluttering as a key part of your renovation strategy. By starting early, organising with intention, choosing smart storage options, and disposing of items responsibly, you’re clearing the way for a smoother (and perhaps even quicker) remodel.
