How to save data, then wipe and reinstall everything?

You could tell us what OS you use on your laptop/desktop. You could also add which version of Sailfish you are currently using. You could also tag your post as a 'request'.

As ApB says, copy what you want and save it to your PC, then go to settings on the phone and reset the device; after reset, update to the lastest Sailfish OS, then install your fav apps/music/items - finally, get on with life.

Why do you need a step-by-step guide for this, I feel you are answering your own question in a way - you already say you like to do things manually, so, do it manually!, document your process, mistakes as well - write the guide yourself.

Either back your stuff up to an SDcard in the device or use the USB cable and transfer your wanted items to PC - again, if we don't have certain info from you, you'll be waiting longer for an answer. Tell us a little more about your set up (phone and PC).

I got a few diffrent Linux distros in mulit-boot and a Win7 on a second HDD which I only start if it's necessary. I was asking since I thought there would be a way to not go to settings and do a restore but an option of plugging in my phone, erasing everything and installing the system new, like you do with the iPhone. But if there is no such option then I at least need help with keeping all my contacts n stuff, already had to enter all 25 manually after I switched from iOS to Sailfish, doing it again would be a pain of which I'm sure is avoidable. Same goes for the calendar, can such data even be saved?

there should be a nice wipe script somewhere for linux that could be adopted for sailfish?