All it takes is a couple of episodes of “Hoarders” to get some of us motivated to throw out things we no longer use or want. It’s no secret we all hold on to “things” because they hold memories for us. Here are a few tips to get you thinking about the items around you that may bring joy to someone else. Having a purpose for cutting back on your clutter can help motivate us, and for many of us, help us relax and feel less chaotic. So, Bring on the Calm: Declutter and Donate These Things Today.
Clothes and Shoes
A good rule of thumb put forth by most professional organizers is to donate clothes you have not worn in over two years. Some organizations like churches and family shelters will re-use these items to improve the lives of others. Many families and people in the workplace are in need of quality clothing and shoes at an affordable price. It’s easy to locate local organizations in your area, but there are also many nationwide charity groups that will pick up your donations for free. What could be easier?
Knickknacks and Decorations
We already know one man’s trash is another’s treasure. Most of us have had that experience of finding that beautiful $5 pasta bowl in a second-hand store. Your donation will give others a chance to discover those knickknacks and decorative items you have hidden away in closets and shelves. Donate them if you no longer use these items, or perhaps don’t remember you even own them. This goes for toys your children have outgrown or no longer use. You will enjoy having the extra space more than you are enjoying those items that are taking up valuable space in your house, or just sitting around collecting dust.
Books
You read it, you loved it, you shelved it five years ago. It’s time to give someone the reading pleasure you experienced by donating your old books. Books can become very personal items to many of us – while we are enjoying the read, and once we’re through with it. Most of us rarely pick up the same book again, but we want to be sure our great read is going to someone who will enjoy it as much as we did. BecomingMinimalist.com offers great ideas on what to do with your old books with their article Where to Donate Books: 20 Places to Donate Used Books.
The idea is to allow yourself to become more organized and improve the quality of your life. It’s easy to save time when you’re not constantly on the hunt for lost items. Removing items you no longer use can help you make room for other things that bring you joy. So, bring on the calm: declutter and donate this today.