Once your nest is empty, it is a good time to think about clearing out a lot of unnecessary items.
Things to consider getting rid of when downsizing:
- Clothes you no longer wear
This is a good starting place. Get rid of anything that is worn out, too small, or you haven’t used in the past year. - Luggage
Keep only what you use often. With less people in your house, you are not likely to need five suitcases. One large suitcase and a small carry-on bag is sufficient. - Shoes and accessories
There is a good chance that you have shoes in your closet that you haven’t worn in a good while (and are probably no longer is style). Only keep what you need for everyday use and special occasions. - Knick Knacks
Think about only what will fit in your new space and how much time you will save not dusting everything else. - Furniture
Give away or donate any furniture that is for decorative purposes only. This includes shelves and cabinets used to store all of those knick-knacks you are not keeping. - Books
Books are hard for a lot of people to part with, but there are now much easier ways to keep up on your reading without having to store them. Look into buying a tablet. - Rarely-used kitchen items
If you can’t remember the last time you used your food processor or mixer, find it a new home. - Movies and CDs
With so many streaming video options, you don’t need to keep your DVD library (or player) any longer. CDs can be replaced with an MP3 player. - Sentimental items from your children’s childhoods
While looking at your daughter’s fifth-grade report card might bring back memories, is it something that you need to hold on to in order to cherish those times?