HOW TO SUSTAINABLY DISPOSE OF CLUTTER IN YOUR HOME

Of all the reasons we hold on to clutter in our homes, one of the most powerful is that it feels wasteful to throw things away. That feeling is understandable, but not a reason to hold on to everything. You can get rid of your clutter without sending it all to the landfill.

RECYCLE

Recycling is the process of collecting and processing materials that would otherwise be thrown away as trash and turning them into new products. Recycling can benefit your community, the economy, and the environment. Before tossing your purged items, they may likely be recyclable. Here are the most common items you can put in your curbside bin:

• Cardboard
• Paper
• Food boxes (cereal, crackers, etc.)
• Mail
• Beverage cans
• Food cans
• Glass bottles
• Jars (glass and plastic)
• Plastic bottles with caps attached

SELL

There is a large national movement to buy more used items, and people are even feeling comfortable giving them as gifts. You can sell nearly anything in good condition at a yard sale or online.

DONATE

In addition to donation site staples like Goodwill, consider donating clothing, blankets, and other home goods to organizations that provide disaster relief or assistance to people experiencing homelessness. Don’t forget our furry friends and donate old linens to the animal shelter.

REPURPOSE

Some items become clutter because we allow them to sit unused when they could be repurposed. If you have a DIY streak, you can get crafty and turn clutter into artistic home décor.

If you’re feeling entrepreneurial you can sell your creations, or you can donate them to local thrift stores. Remember that a repurposed item can find a home other than yours.

REUSE

Reducing clutter is also about reducing purchases. Do you own something that can be cleaned or repaired rather than replaced? Some of the clutter in our homes is just items waiting for a spare part or a bit of elbow grease.

Repairing an item does not mean you need to keep it in your home. Sell or donate it if you aren’t going to use it yourself.

USE THE LIBRARY

As you declutter, it will be tempting to buy replacements like books or movies. Your local library can supply you with entertainment that not only leaves your home when you finish it but also reduces paper and plastic use. Streaming services have all but replaced the need to even purchase DVDs.

So, by all means, purge away, but think before you toss!

A simple add I offer to my clients is to haul away 1 car-load of donations from every session. This makes it easier to see a cleared away and better organized space. It also reduces the opportunity for second guessing the donations.

Get in Touch With Us

Clutter doesn’t have to become garbage. With some effort and ingenuity, your clutter can contribute to a more sustainable society. Contact us and let’s get started!

[Sources:
https://www.cnbc.com/2019/11/27/as-the-secondhand-market-booms-used-clothing-is-an-acceptable-gift.html
https://pickupplease.org/11-ways-repurpose-clutter/
https://www.yourorganizedlife.org/sustainably-dispose-clutter/
https://www.angelagayehorn.com/sustainable-decluttering-konmari/]