If you choose to handle a household clearance on your own, a clear plan is essential. Without it, the process can quickly become overwhelming, exhausting, and time-consuming. These steps will help you stay in control:
1. Create a Time Plan
Allow sufficient time for the clearance. A small apartment can often be cleared in 1–2 days, while a large home may take several weeks. Don’t forget to account for lease deadlines and build in buffer time.
2. Secure Important Documents
Collect and safely store key personal documents, including:
- ID cards and passports
- Contracts and invoices
- Certificates (e.g. birth, insurance policies)
- Wills and legal documents
Keep these separate to avoid them getting lost during the chaos.
3. Sort Household Items
Organize the contents of the home into clear categories to simplify decision-making:
- Keep – Items with practical or sentimental value
- Sell – Valuable pieces via online marketplaces or flea markets
- Donate/Give away – Items in good condition to charities or others in need
- Dispose of – Broken or unusable items properly
Tip: Use labeled moving boxes or colored stickers for each category – this will save time and improve your workflow.
4. Organize Waste Disposal and Bulk Collection
Contact your local municipality in advance to check:
- Scheduled bulk trash pickup dates or booking requirements
- Drop-off points for electronics, batteries, paint, or mattresses
- Regulations, volume limits, and associated fees
If you’re disposing of large volumes, consider renting a container service.
5. Use Temporary Storage
If you’re undecided about certain items, temporary storage can offer peace of mind. Renting a secure storage space – such as through SaveSpace – gives you time and space to make thoughtful decisions without pressure.
Household Clearance with a Professional Company – The Stress-Free Alternative
If you’re short on time, energy, or emotional bandwidth, hiring a professional clearance service can be a huge relief.
Benefits of a Professional Household Clearance
- Time-saving: Professionals can usually clear a full apartment in a single day.
- Stress reduction: No need to worry about logistics, sorting, or transportation.
- Proper disposal: Companies are familiar with local disposal regulations.
- Item valuation: Some firms offer item buyback or credit the value against clearance costs.
Downsides
- Higher cost compared to doing it yourself (approx. €500 per room)
- Privacy concerns when strangers handle personal or sensitive belongings
How Much Does a Household Clearance Cost?
Costs vary depending on the size, location, and condition of the property.
| Living Space | Estimated Cost |
| 1-room apartment | CHF 600–800 |
| 2–3-room apartment | CHF 1,200–3,000 |
| House (120+ m²) | CHF 3,000–5,000 |
Tip: In some cases, local social services may offer financial assistance if the clearance is due to hardship.
Tips for a Stress-Free Household Clearance
- Start planning early
- Ask friends or family for help
- Be honest when sorting – keep only what truly matters
- Photograph or document valuable items before disposal
- Don’t hesitate to get professional help when needed
Smart Solution for Your Clearance: Store Instead of Discarding in a Rush
You need more time to make decisions or just want some emotional distance first? Then SaveSpace offers the ideal short-term solution: store your belongings instead of throwing them away prematurely.
Whether it’s cherished keepsakes, furniture, or important documents – SaveSpace picks up your items right at your door, stores them securely, and brings them back whenever you’re ready. No carrying. No hassle. No long-term commitment.
Flexible. Safe. Simple.
Book your storage space now and take one big worry off your list: