Clear and Store Furniture
Everything must come out before demolition day. This is also your chance to decide what comes back into the remodeled space and what gets donated, sold, or replaced. A major remodel is the perfect opportunity to upgrade furniture that no longer fits your vision.
Time Required
4-8 hours
Cost
$0-$300 (storage rental)
Difficulty
Easy (physically demanding)
Clearing Process
Sort into categories
Create four categories: Keep for remodeled room, Move to temporary space, Put in storage, and Donate or sell. Be ruthless. If furniture does not fit the new design plan, this is the time to let it go. Selling pieces before the remodel can offset costs.
Document the current layout
Take detailed photos of how everything is arranged before moving anything. Photograph wall art placements, cable and wire routing behind media centers, and any custom arrangements you want to reference later. These photos are invaluable during the furnishing phase.
Label everything by zone
Use colored tape or labels to identify which zone each item belongs to in the new layout: fireplace area, reading nook, media wall, conversation area. When the room is finished, you will know exactly where each piece goes without guessing.
Protect items in storage
Wrap furniture in moving blankets, not plastic wrap which traps moisture. Store upholstered pieces off the ground on pallets if using a garage or basement. Climate-controlled storage is worth the extra cost for leather furniture, electronics, and artwork.
Storage Options
- Garage or basement: Free but risky if not climate-controlled. Best for sturdy items that can handle temperature swings. Cover everything with moving blankets.
- Portable storage container: PODS or similar services deliver a container to your driveway ($150-$250/month). Convenient but check HOA rules about driveway containers.
- Self-storage unit: A 10x10 unit handles most living room contents. Climate-controlled units run $100-$250/month. Reserve one close to home for easy access.
- Friends or family: If someone has garage or basement space, it is the cheapest option. Just protect their space as carefully as you would a rental unit.
Pro Tips
- •Sell before you store: List furniture you are replacing on Facebook Marketplace or Craigslist 2-3 weeks before the move-out date. One less thing to store and money toward the remodel budget.
- •Save hardware in labeled bags: Shelf brackets, TV mount bolts, and curtain rod hardware should go in zip-lock bags labeled with what they belong to. Tape bags to the corresponding item.
- •Disconnect and coil cables carefully: Label each end of every cable behind your entertainment center before disconnecting. Use twist ties or velcro straps to keep cables organized during storage.