Moving into a new home is exciting – but let’s be honest, it can also feel a bit overwhelming. Deciding what to take with you, what will actually fit, and what’s better off being donated or recycled is a big job in itself.
Whether you enjoy organising or tend to put it off until the last minute, a bit of planning goes a long way. Breaking the move into manageable steps can make the whole process feel far less stressful.
Start by decluttering
In the weeks before you move, go through your home room by room and set aside anything you no longer use or need. Tackling a little at a time helps avoid that “where do I even start?” feeling.
Items in good condition can be donated, while anything broken or worn out can be recycled responsibly. If you’re downsizing, this step is especially important. Larger pieces like dining tables, sideboards or sofas may not suit your new layout, so taking measurements early can save time, money and frustration later on.
Once you know what’s coming with you, make a simple packing list and begin with non-essentials – artwork, mirrors, ornaments and anything you won’t need in the final days before moving.
Packing without the stress
A few small packing tricks can make a big difference on moving day. Hanging clothes can stay on their hangers and be grouped together in large bags, saving time at the other end. Towels and soft furnishings work well for protecting dishes and fragile items, and oven gloves are surprisingly handy for wrapping sharp knives.
It’s also worth packing an essentials box – things like toilet roll, cleaning wipes, bin bags, kitchen roll, scissors and a few snacks. Load this last so it’s the first thing you can grab when you arrive.
An overnight bag for each family member is another simple win. Keep bedding easy to reach too – after a long day, you’ll be glad you did.
Colour-coding boxes with tape (one colour per room) makes unloading quicker and helps everyone know where things belong, especially if you’re using a removals team.
A final check before you leave
Once everything’s loaded, a quick clean of your old home is a nice way to close the door on it. Focus on areas that only become visible once furniture and appliances are moved – behind the fridge, inside cupboards, and along skirting boards. It doesn’t need to be perfect, just tidy and ready for the next owners.
Unpacking with a plan
When you arrive, start with your essentials box, then bedding and overnight bags. The kitchen and bathroom are usually the best places to tackle first, as they’re used straight away.
Unpack kitchen items onto worktops initially rather than trying to organise cupboards immediately. Living in the space for a few days will give you a better idea of what works where.
If you’re moving into a new Eleanor Charles Homes property, your home will already have been professionally cleaned before you collect the keys, which takes one job off your list straight away.
Making it feel like home
Once the boxes are mostly unpacked, you can start adding your own personality. In a new build, it’s best to wait a little while before painting or wallpapering to allow the house to settle naturally.
In the meantime, soft furnishings, artwork, lighting and plants can make a huge difference. Many people choose to focus on the lounge first – it’s where you’ll spend most of your time and where guests often gather. There’s no rush, though. Spend time getting to know the space and what feels right.
Neutral colours are a safe starting point, especially if you’re unsure of your style. You can always build on them later.
What can wait
Rooms like the utility space, garage or spare bedroom don’t need immediate attention. These areas are ideal for storing boxes you don’t need to unpack straight away. If something stays boxed up for weeks, it may be a sign you don’t really need it after all.
Outdoor spaces can also wait, especially if you’re moving during colder months. Tackle them when the weather improves and you’re ready to enjoy them.
We know how busy everyday life can be, particularly for growing families. That’s why Eleanor Charles Homes are designed with practical, well-thought-out storage – helping keep clutter out of sight and giving you more time to enjoy your new home.