Downsizing in the Fraser Valley: 3 Essential Decluttering Steps for a Clutter-Free Home
Years of collecting things can make downsizing seem impossible. Follow this 3-step plan to reduce clutter, decrease stress, and make your home safer. This plan is useful whether you’re moving to a condo or just want to declutter before a big move in Chilliwack, Abbotsford, or anywhere in the Fraser Valley.
Step 1: Start small and focus on one area at a time
Don’t try to tackle the whole house at once. Break it down into small sections—like one closet, cupboard, or shelf at a time. Finish each section before you move on.
Sort quickly into three categories
- Keep: items you use or value.
- Donate: items still useful.
- Discard: broken or unusable items.
Pro tip: Touch each item only once and make a decision right away. If you can’t decide, come back to it later, leaving it in the same spot.
Schedule a pickup mid-project if your donate or trash piles are blocking your work. Clearing space keeps you moving.
The result? Small clutter is gone, and bigger items are ready for pickup without wearing you out.
Step 2: Label large items and plan removal early
Large items can slow down your process. Decide what to do with them now. Use simple color tags so helpers know what to do.
- Green = Keep. Measure to ensure it fits in your new space.
- Yellow = Donate or sell. Schedule pickups or drop-offs, and confirm what they accept.
- Red = Remove. Junk, recycle, or throw away.
Fraser Valley donation contacts
Many organizations are available throughout the Fraser Valley, and some will even send a truck for pickup. Call them to check what they will take and when.
- Mission Thrift Store (Chilliwack) – (604) 858-9444
- Habitat for Humanity ReStore (Chilliwack) – (604) 392-7892
- Value Village/Big Brothers Big Sisters
- MCC Thrift Shops (Abbotsford) – (604) 854-2062
Municipal large item events are held on specific dates and may have restrictions. If the timing or rules don’t fit, think about hiring a junk removal service. Our team can pick up from anywhere in your home, recycle, and donate through local partners. We divert about 40 percent from landfills and ensure proper handling. Check our full list of what we take here.
Pro tip: Schedule charity and junk pickups 1 to 2 weeks ahead. Don’t wait until the last minute!
Step 3: Keep the memories, not the clutter
Sentimental items can be tough. Preserve the stories without keeping boxes full of stuff.
- Digitize or take photos of large memorabilia.
- Create one small memory book or box for the most meaningful items.
- Limit memory bins to a set number so only the most significant things remain.
If an item still means something to you, keep it. The goal isn’t to leave you with nothing. However, remember you can cherish memories without clutter. Your home should be a place for relaxation, not a storage unit.
Downsizing timeline
One month out: Work on small areas daily or on weekends. Finish closets, drawers, and storage. Use up pantry items and cleaners.
Two weeks out: Tag all large items. Schedule donation pickups and junk removal. Now is the time to list anything sellable.
Final week: Clear surfaces and pathways. Pack items you want to keep. Ensure all donation and junk items are scheduled or removed.
Not moving? Set a date and follow the same steps.
FAQ
How far ahead should I book junk removal?
For large cleanouts, about one week in advance is ideal. Smaller loads can often be done within 48 hours. During busy seasons, it’s best to book earlier. Schedule as soon as you know how much you have.
What do charities not accept?
Damaged or worn furniture, stained mattresses, old tube TVs, non-working appliances, hazardous materials, and some baby items. If declined, use municipal drop-offs, specialty recycling, or a junk service that sorts for recycling and donation.
What if I feel overwhelmed or can’t lift?
Ask friends or family for help. Consider hiring a professional organizer or senior move manager. Alternatively, hire a complete removal service. Our insured team handles heavy items room by room and sorts for donation and recycling.
Why choose Fraser Valley Junk Solutions?
We’re local, and our eco-friendly methods ensure your items are reused or rehomed when possible. We work with Big Brothers Big Sisters, Habitat for Humanity, and MCC to keep good items in the community. We recycle metal, electronics, and more. We pick up from anywhere on the property, so you avoid injury. When you’re ready to Get Junk Gone, we make it easy.
Next step: Get a free estimate and discuss your project details with our team. We’re here to help as a resource if needed.
About the author:
Sam is a local entrepreneur who started Fraser Valley Junk Solutions as a high-school project in 2017. Since then, the company has become the Fraser Valley’s top choice for responsible junk removal for homeowners and businesses—helping the Fraser Valley Get Junk Gone.
Sam@fraservalleyjunksolutions.ca
(604)-226-5750