If you're thinking of downsizing why not put your things in storage until you move to your new home? That way you can decide what fits and what to discard.

Moving from a three or four bedroom family home with a garage to a two bedroom apartment means you will end up with a lot less storage space.

No-one is recommending that you throw away a life-time of memories but if you are downsizing you’ve got no option other than to declutter. Here are some other ideas for consider if you are downsizing:

• If grown up childrens' bedrooms have been left as they were before they moved out ask them to come around and look through their goods. Get them to divide their belongings into what is to be thrown away, given to charity, recycled or put into storage.
• Create scrapbooks, albums or a memorabilia box to take with you to your new home. It takes a bit of time but it’s a good way to keep memories close by without the clutter.
• Don’t take items that you rarely use into your new home. If you want to keep them but don’t have the room for them put them into self-storage with Elephant Self Storage.
• Before packing your self-storage unit, think carefully. Mementoes and personal items you wish to keep but never use can be packed towards the back of the unit. Items that you’ll use seasonally should be within easy reach.
• Remember the golden rule – renting self storage space is more cost-effective than buying domestic space. It also frees you up to make decisions without having to face clutter!
• Here`s a tip: put items that you are attached to in an Elephant Self Storage unit for a month or two - then see what you can remember and what items you miss! If you don`t miss something you may not need it.

Have a look at our articles on decluttering and why renting storage space is cost-effective. You`ll find more articles for links in Private Storage.

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