Your Fall Cleaning and Decluttering Guide: Make Room for a Fresh Start Before You Move
- Prime Moovers
- 18 hours ago
- 3 min read
There’s something undeniably refreshing about fall. The crisp air, colorful leaves, and sense of renewal before the busy holiday season make it a great time for change. It’s also the perfect time to declutter and get organized ahead of your move. With cooler weather and a new year on the horizon, now’s your chance to simplify, clear out the extras, and set yourself up for a smooth, seamless relocation.
At Prime Moovers in Springfield, Illinois, we know that a well-organized move begins long before moving day. Here’s how to make the most of your fall cleaning season and lighten your load before your next move:
Decluttering for a Move: Where to Begin
Clean Out the Closet
Empty everything out and create piles: keep, donate, sell, or discard. Try things on and be honest about what you actually wear. If you haven't used it in a year, it might be time to let it go. Pack off-season clothes first and label boxes clearly. Consider using vacuum-seal bags or clear bins to save space and protect your clothing during the move.
Tackle the Kitchen
Begin by clearing every cabinet and drawer completely, you’ll be surprised at what’s hiding in the back! Toss expired food and condiments, and donate unopened pantry items. Take this chance to downsize on duplicates. You don’t need three spatulas or that second blender. If it’s bulky and rarely used, it’s probably not worth the box space. Wrap fragile glassware and dishes individually, using soft linens or dish towels for extra protection.
Pro-tip: Set aside your daily essentials and pack them last so they’re easy to find at your new location.
Declutter the Garage or Basement
Garages and basements tend to collect years of “just in case” items. Group similar items (holiday lights, gardening tools, sports equipment, etc.) for easier labeling later, and safely dispose of hazardous materials.
Pro-tip: Use sturdy, labeled boxes or plastic bins for tools, cords, and outdoor equipment. Keep small hardware like nails and screws in sealed containers or zip-top bags to prevent messes during the transport.
Simplify the Living Room and Bedrooms
Decide what fits your new space. Take photos and measurements before moving day to plan layouts and avoid hauling oversized pieces. Label cords, remotes, and electronics neatly with masking tape or cable ties so you know what belongs where later.
Pro-tip: Create a “first-night” box with bedding, pajamas, toiletries, phone chargers, and a change of clothes. That way, you can settle in comfortably without digging through boxes after a long day of moving.
Fall Cleaning Checklist for Movers
A cleaning checklist helps your home feel fresh and ready for the next chapter:
✅ Dust shelves and ceiling fans before packing.
✅ Wash bedding and curtains to pack them clean.
✅ Wipe down counters, baseboards, doors, and light switches.
✅ Empty and clean out the refrigerator and freezer.
✅ Sweep and mop each room.
If that sounds like a lot, don’t worry! Once your space is organized, Prime Moovers can take it from there with expert packing, loading, and unloading services to make your move completely stress-free.
Donate, Sell, or Recycle: The Smart Way to Declutter
Every item you part with now is one less box to move later. Don’t let unwanted items go to waste, instead consider:
Donating to local Springfield charities or shelters.
Selling larger items on Facebook Marketplace or local yard sale groups.
Recycling electronics, cardboard, and plastics responsibly.
How Decluttering Saves You Money
Less clutter means fewer packing materials, smaller truck space, and reduced labor time. Whether you’re moving across town or across Illinois, decluttering before a move can lower your overall costs and make unpacking in your new home a breeze!
Want to turn your extra stuff into moving-day money? Check out our Mooving Guide post on how to declutter and profit with a successful garage sale before your move.
What Items Can’t be Moved?
We cannot move hazardous materials, perishable food, and certain items like firearms or live plants. We will provide you with a complete list of restricted items during the planning process.
What Types of Junk can Prime Moovers Remove?
We remove a wide range of items, including old furniture, appliances, electronics, construction debris, yard waste, and general household clutter. If you’re unsure whether we can take something, feel free to ask!
Have More Questions about Your Move?
Check out our full list of FAQs!
A Fresh Start Begins with Prime Moovers
As you wrap up your fall cleaning and decluttering, remember you don’t have to do it all alone. We are Springfield's prime movers after all! We're here to make your move smoother, simpler, and worry-free. Whether you need full packing help or just a reliable team for loading and unloading, we’ll treat your move with care from start to finish.
Let's make your next move your easiest one yet. Book with Prime Moovers today!