Moving can be stressful. Make it easier by knowing what you should bring to your new home. and when you need to throw it away. You can save hundreds to thousands of dollars worth by being strategic in your move. Don’t waste away your money or time. Research beforehand so that when the time comes to move, the process will be streamlined, efficient, and most importantly stress-free.

Bedroom

As far as your bed set goes your pillows should be replaced every one to two years. If you’ve cleaned them regularly, then you can use them for up to two years. If you don’t remember the last time they were washed, it’s probably a good idea to leave them behind and purchase a new pair.

Your mattress has a lifespan of five to 10 years. If you flip your mattress every year, then you can draw out its usability. If you’ve reached your seven year mark without flipping, it’s time you shop for a new one.

Finally an excuse to buy new make-up! Your eye liner, mascara, and eyeshadow should only be used for six months. The bacteria from your eye wears down your make-up’s original effectiveness. Make-up brushes, on the other hand, can be taken with you, as they perform the same for two years. Bring the foundation, powder, blush, and lipsticks as well for they can last two to three years. You can also bring your perfume. It lasts for two years. Make sure to keep your perfume away from the sun because heat can lessen the scent over time.

Closet

If you haven’t worn something in an entire year, chances are you will never wear it. While packing your clothes separate what you have worn in the past year to what you would like to donate. It’s also best to donate your clothes before your big move to save time and luggage space.
Sneakers should be replaced after 300 to 500 miles of running. If you go running or walking every day, it’s a good idea to replace after a year to a year and a half. Even better, make sure to invest in a good pair of running shoes. It may cost more, but it will last longer and give you greater support.

Office

Your computer usually needs an upgrade after four years. Technology improves daily and after four years, your once new model isn’t up to date any longer. If you do more than just check email, it’s time to upgrade if you’ve reached the four-year mark. Laptops also slow down over time and with use. Investing in the newest technology will keep your laptop at top speed.

Your printer can also slow down over the years. Wireless printers are becoming the norm. If your printer is behind in technology it may be time to start thinking about an upgrade. After a few years printers can show signs of decline like blurry ink, crooked images and text, or overall slower speed. If these problems still consist after replacing the ink cartridge it is due to your printer’s decline in quality over time.

Kitchen

If you want to save money on appliances, there’s good news! You can likely bring all of your kitchen appliances with you on your move. Refrigerators can last 15 to 30 years, dishwashers 10-11, and stovetops last up to 20 years. You can even bring your cutting board with you. When sanitized with soap detergent, cutting boards can be kept indefinitely. However, if it’s looking pretty beat up and worn down then you can replace it for appearance sake.

Here are the things you do need to replace: your sponge, water filter, and spices. Your sponge should be replaced every few weeks to a month. Built up bacteria in your sponge can actually spread onto your dishes. Water filters should be replaced whenever the package provides a date. Usually, it is from two to six months. Spices lose much of their aroma and taste after one year.

Bathroom

Definitely throw away your toothbrush before your move. Toothbrushes only last three months due to wear and bacteria. Packing your toothbrush will only add bacteria to your bristles. Your toothbrush cup and soap dish however, can travel with you. As long as they are cleaned they can last however long you like. But your loofah will need replacing. A loofah lives through its prime after a month. After that, it’s a good idea to replace.

Depending on how long you have been living in your current home, you may or may not need to replace your bath towels. If regularly washed, bath towels can keep you dry and clean for two years.

You know that dark corner in your shower, the one with all of the half empty and unused shampoo bottles? You can bring those with you on your move, and actually finish them this time. Dandruff shampoo lasts for three whole years.

For contact wearers, throw your solution away after three months. The bacteria after that period will do a number on your solution. Add antibacterial cream to your moving shopping list as well. It only lasts for a year before expiring or losing its effect. However, you can keep rubbing alcohol forever. It never loses its potency, and you can keep it with you on every move.

Living Room Decor and More

Living room decor can last as long as you like. Couches, coffee tables, and lamps don’t normally have an expiration date. Your rug, on the other hand, may need a make-over. You can try doing a power wash or vacuum to your rug to recreate that newly-bought color, but over the years your rug may permanently fade. If that’s the case, it’s a good idea to shop for a new one.

You can bring your vacuum with you to your new home, but make sure to replace the filter. Vacuum filters only last for three to six months, and you’ll want it to be working well to clean up your new home.

Although moving can be incredibly hectic, organizing what you should and shouldn’t bring can release a load of confusion far away from your move. It can also help save you money. While smaller things like filters, sponges, and toothbrushes should be replaced, keeping appliances will save you a lot of financial headaches in the future.