The clocks spring forward, the sun makes an appearance and suddenly that winter procrastination we’ve carried – clearing wardrobes, sorting the loft, organising cupboards – begins to lift. With the change in season comes a renewed sense of energy and a desire to feel more organised. However, while motivation may arrive in full force, the feeling of overwhelm can still creep in and dampen even the best intentions. Moving house is widely recognised as one of life’s most stressful events. Combine this with the task of sorting through years of belongings, clothes and accumulated clutter, and it can quickly feel unmanageable. This is exactly why we introduced our decluttering service with expert Francesca Harrison.
With a background in psychology, home organising and decluttering, Francesca brings a unique understanding of the emotional side of letting go – something that often goes hand-in-hand with downsizing. Whether you are moving to a smaller property, entering a new stage of life, or simply seeking a fresh start, Francesca helps clients embrace change and turn it into a positive experience.
Francesca’s Tips for your 2026 spring clean
1. Spring is a great time to have a thorough wardrobe declutter. Which cold
weather items were left unworn over the past few months? If they no longer
fit, are worn out, or just don’t’ feel ‘you’ anymore, it’s time to let them go.
2. Don’t overlook the hallway. It’s easy to forget, but this hardworking space is
the first thing you see when you arrive home, so it deserves to feel calm, tidy
and well-organised. Winter items can be stored away to free up space for
everyday summer gear, and if you’re tight on space, use vertical storage to
keep surfaces clear and clutter-free.
3. As the weather warms up, we naturally spend more time outside, and that’s
especially the case with children. It’s the perfect opportunity to declutter and
organise their toys. Clearing out broken or unwanted toys not only frees up
space, but often uncovers long-forgotten favourites that kids are excited to
rediscover.
4. Start small and build up. Decluttering is like a muscle – if you try to do too
much too soon, it’ll be painful! Start small and build up as you get into the flow
of it.
5. Don’t rush to buy storage. It can be incredibly tempting to assume that shiny
new storage solutions will solve all your clutter woes. But you really don’t want
to be buying something to store things you no longer actually want or need.
Declutter first, then assess how best to store the things you’re keeping.
When you instruct Curchods to sell your home, you’re then able to book five complimentary hours of Francesca’s time. This provides the perfect opportunity to ask questions, develop a clear plan of action and gain an understanding of how she works. Even this initial support can significantly reduce feelings of stress and overwhelm, while highlighting the value of having expert guidance throughout the process. There is absolutely no obligation to continue beyond this, but in our experience, once clients begin the process and see the benefits, they are motivated to see it through.
The benefits of decluttering are numerous – from reducing packing time and effort, to improving mental clarity and creating a sense of calm ahead of a move. It also allows you to approach your next chapter with intention, surrounding yourself only with the items that truly serve a purpose or bring joy.
Beyond the practical advantages, decluttering can be a deeply rewarding process. It offers the chance to reflect, reset and let go of what no longer aligns with your lifestyle. Many clients find that, with the right support, what initially felt like a daunting task becomes an empowering experience that sets the tone for a smoother, more positive move.
Ultimately, preparing your home for sale is not just about presentation – it is about creating space, both physically and mentally, for what comes next. With expert guidance and a clear plan in place, the process becomes far more manageable, allowing you to move forward with confidence and clarity.
