Getting a handle on the clutter in your home isn’t all about tossing out what you no longer want or need.
That old book case that just collects dust since you switched to a digital reader or the end tables that look out of whack with your new couch may be just what someone else is looking for to furnish their place.
With the holidays around the corner, the clean-up pros at JUSTJUNK have a few ideas about how to get in the spirit of the season and free up space in your home by donating items to others.
1. There are so many options to donate
Most people think of the Salvation Army or Goodwill for bulk donations. However, public libraries will often take your gently used books, and several independent or local chain children’s clothing stores will take clothes for newborns up to teens. You can always ask around for the items you’re looking to donate. However, very few of these places have the opportunity to pick up items at your home.
2. There are good times to donate
Just like a lot of businesses and organizations, places that accept donations have busy and lean periods. Need to get rid of some toys? A lot of organizations organize toy drives near the end of fall, opening up your options just before Christmas. The fall is also a great time of year to pass along gently used winter jackets and other seasonal clothing before the really cold weather sets in. Much like how you may have trouble finding bathing suits in September, there are better times to donate certain pieces of clothing than others.
3. Give your community a call
If you regularly declutter, it never hurts to ask and see what’s most in need. Food banks and other community organizations are always on the lookout for support. Knowing what you can keep an eye out for, or knowing which of your friends and family may have extra of whatever they’re looking for, can go a long way in helping.
4. Some things just won’t sell
Sometimes you can’t even get rid of certain items for free. Pianos, pool tables, or even specialty appliances or cookers are often tough to give away. Minimalism in design and space is growing in popularity. It reduces clutter and keeps money in your pockets so people avoid anything big and bulky. It also leads to having an overall lesser impact on the environment, but keep in mind many of these hard-to-sell items might be hard to sell just because they’re assembled. Disassembling appliances and electronics makes for an easier disposal – both for you and the environment – and most can be dropped off with other electronics at local depots while furniture can also be reused in clever and creative ways.
5. When in doubt, don’t throw out.
There are a lot of options when you can’t get rid of something, but you should always consider throwing it out as a last resort. With waste crises around the world, more items than you’d think can have a second life. Look into what causes local groups are supporting, if you’re planning a large decluttering at home or the office. Recycling programs, too, are getting more and more dynamic, but restrictive. A lot of items can be diverted from the landfill by donating or using services that donate on your behalf, like junk removal services.