Downsizing Tip #5: Treasures Everywhere!

Now that you have been preparing yourself for the downsizing process,the last decision is where to take all those items you don't want to keep. In this day and age, it is becoming pretty crucial to think about the impact that these items have on Mother Earth. What better way to continue the downsizing process then to adopt the credo- Reduce, Reuse, Recycle. It is pretty tempting at times to order up a large garbage, plop it in the driveway and begin dumping away. With just a little fore thought though, you can help save the environment, help out other people and make some money in the process.

Just because you or your family do not want the trash doesn't mean it isn't another person's treasures.  Donation facilities wouldn't be able to survive if they didn't receive treasures. Most facilities either use the donations within their supporting cause i.e Assisting individuals in need or they are able to sell items in second hand stores to raise crucial funds. Many also raise money through recycling programs such as selling old clothing and fabric to recycling centers. So don't think someone else won't want your items. Your best bet is to donate it and let them make the decision. Many facilities will be very happy to come pick up your items for free, but you might need to schedule ahead of time. 

Obvious recycling items such as paper, cardboard, bottles, plastics and old appliances can be dropped off at a recycle center when the project is complete or use curbside recycling if it is available in your area. Just remember if you are moving to not have the service cut off until you are completely out of the house.  Hazardous waste items such as old prescriptions, expired tonics and lotions, cleaning supplies, TV's and garage contents can be boxed up and marked for curbside pick-up (if available) or dropped off at a hazardous waste processing site. Some donation sites will take opened items such as beauty aids, cleaning supplies, etc. to use in their facility or pass on to their program members.

Many shredding companies will mass shred old financial paperwork for a nominal fee freeing you up from hours hunched over a shredder or worse yet having your identity stolen if it is thrown out.

I don't know how many times I have seen antiques thrown in the trash because the value was not known. Rusted tackle boxes, old keys and tin cans, these are just a few of someone else's favorite things (and they are willing to pay for them). It might be worth having an antique dealer or appraiser take a look through the house before tossing anything out. Not everyone is crazy about the idea of having strangers come through their house, so one remedy is to box up prospective items and take to them. If moving, clear out the home of items being moved and then have someone take a look at the remaining items. I had a client pay for a very large portion of her move this way and she didn't have to do any work at all.

Finally garage, estate sales, consignment and auctions are another method of re-using your items. I'll discuss in my next blog the different thoughts on whether one is better than another, but for now just know that they are a great way to recycle your items and help make a little money as well. That can come in handy if a move is just around the corner.