The Declutter Dilemma: What to Toss, Store, or Keep Before Listing

Preparing your home for the market can feel overwhelming, especially when it comes to decluttering. What stays? What goes? What gets boxed up and stored away? If you're not sure where to start, you're not alone. Decluttering is one of the most impactful things you can do before listing your home, and doing it right can lead to faster offers and higher sale prices.

Here's your room-by-room guide to tackling the decluttering dilemma with clarity and confidence: 1. Living Room: Less Is More

Toss:

• Worn-out throw pillows or blankets

• Excess magazines, papers, and remotes

• Outdated or damaged decor

Store:

• Personal photos and memorabilia

• Oversized furniture that makes the room feel cramped

• Seasonal items like holiday decor

Keep:

• One or two neutral decorative pieces

• A simple coffee table setup

• Lamps and essential furniture that highlight the space

2. Kitchen: Clean and Crisp

Toss:

• Expired food and condiments

• Chipped dishes, mugs, and plasticware

• Old takeout menus and junk drawer contents

Store:

• Extra countertop appliances (blenders, toasters, air fryers)

• Bulk pantry items or oversized storage containers

• Cookbooks and magnets on the fridge

Keep:

• One stylish fruit bowl or neutral centerpiece

• A few neatly stacked dishes or glasses in open shelving

• Spotless counters and sink

3. Bedrooms: Create a Peaceful Retreat

Toss:

• Worn-out linens or mismatched bedding

• Broken lamps, clocks, or furniture

• Piles of unread books or unused items on nightstands

Store:

• Off-season clothing and shoes

• Extra decorative pillows or blankets

• Jewelry boxes, personal items, or valuables

Keep:

• A neatly made bed with fresh, neutral bedding

• A nightstand and lamp on each side (if space allows)

• A tidy dresser or chair that enhances the room

4. Bathrooms: Spa Vibes Only

Toss:

• Nearly empty product bottles

• Expired medications or cosmetics

• Old towels and bath mats

Store:

• Extra toiletries and backups

• Electric toothbrushes, razors, and grooming tools

• Cleaning products

Keep:

• A clean hand towel and bath towel per person

• A small, fresh-smelling candle or plant

• A tidy countertop with minimal items

5. Garage and Storage Areas: Show the Space

Toss:

• Broken tools, outdated paint, and duplicate supplies

• Anything you haven’t used in over a year

Store:

• Seasonal gear, camping supplies, or extra furniture

• Labeled boxes with neatly packed belongings

Keep:

• Just the essentials, organized and accessible

• Open floor space to show potential storage capacity

Final Tips for Decluttering Before a Sale:

• Think neutral: Buyers need to imagine themselves in the home, not your life in it.

• Be honest: If you haven’t used it in a year, you likely don’t need it.

• Enlist help: A friend, professional organizer, or your real estate agent can offer an objective eye.

Remember: Decluttering is less about making your home perfect and more about making it inviting. Create a clean, open canvas that allows buyers to fall in love with the space—not be distracted by your stuff. Ready to list? Start by letting go. At Magnolia Homes, we’re here to help you make every step of the selling journey smoother—from staging tips to strategic pricing. Let’s get your home ready to impress and sell with confidence.