I have been seeing alot of homes with alot of clutter. I decided that personally, I also have alot of items in my home that I do not use. I have lived in my home for 3 years and decided after my last move, I would not accumulate unused items. If I do not use it in one year, I would get rid of it. I have been doing well at throwing stuff away- really I donate it, but recently I decided to do an inventory of the whole house. I would do one closet or one drawer each weekend and get rid of everything I have not used in one year. I have been on this plan for 3 weeks and have donated 6 garbage bags of clothes, shoes, dishes, books. I still have 4 more rooms to go. I am embarrassed to accumulate so much stuff, and proud to get rid of it to hopefully someone else that can use it. It amazes me how many items I had forgotten I even had. I also had some good times reviewing old photos and reliving the good memories. I was able to give many items to friends. I even found gold that I was able to sell for over $1000. I found some dish cloths and some plate cleaners that I really needed and saved me purchasing more. I have arranged my boxes for Christmas gifts and the wrapping too. It feels good to have less stuff and be alittle more organized.The point is- if you do not use it, throw it away or donate it.
That is a good idea for everyone, whether they are moving or not. I did that last winter when real estate was slower and I was bored!
Congrats on your organization, sounds like you will benefit from it and so will the lucky recipients!
I'm in agreement, if I don't use it, I donate it! And I like to get things directly in the hands of those less fortunate by not giving it to places where they charge nearly the same as 'Ross' for folks to buy - I give to shelters, etc.
Hope your post inspires others to do the same!
Hi Lori - thanks for the reminder. Especially if we are not using it, our stuff could be better used by someone else (especially those less fortunate). Much success to you...
I try to "clean house" once a year - this year has been so hectic, I haven't had time to do my annual clean-out. I usually have a yard sale and whatever doesn't sell gets donated. My last yard sale I made over $400!
Wow Lori - that's a lot of weeding out! I'm a collector and a clutterbug so clearing out is no small order. Someday...
Liz
When I sold my home after being listed a looong time, I had a chance to go through all the boxes I'd plopped in storage. I donated/threw out at least 80% of that 'junk'...and I still have more to get rid of. It's amazing what we accumulate.
I've been using a great 're-gifting' group called Freecycle. The goal is to keep junk out of the landfills by posting to an email list and re-gifting to others who can use your unwanted items. If there are no takers, then off to Goodwill or other group.
Thanks for the comments. I like the yard sale ideas and the freestyle.com
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