Whether you’re moving or minimizing, getting rid of stuff can be hard. You don’t know if you should keep things or throw them away. Collecting items is easy when you’re human, it just seems to happen naturally. Therefore, you need to be proactive about getting rid of things. Here is how to know if you should throw something away or keep it.
If you haven’t worn it in a year
If you have stuff sitting in your closet that you haven’t worn in at least a year, it’s time to part ways. You can easily donate to a local cause if you want. There’s no sense in throwing anything away, if it’s in good shape.
Old hardware you’re not using
Look in your garage for things you may not be using. Think old hardware, paint, and tools that may just be sitting around. These are items that you can probably get rid of. Ask your city how you can dispose of these items properly. If still in good shape, you may be able to donate to the Habitat Restore.
Look through old paperwork
Think about why you’re holding onto old paperwork, is there a reason? It it’s no longer needed, you can get rid of it. You can buy a shredder to help you with this. Be careful with throwing old paperwork into the trash.
If it’s just sitting there
If you have anything in your house that is just sitting there, this is something to consider donating. Whether it’s an old dresser or a bike that is just collecting dust, consider donating it. Does it have sentimental value? If so, consider keeping it, but challenge yourself to find use for it.
Personal items that are collecting
How many of you have personal items just sitting around in the house? Personal items are a different story. No one probably wants your half-used deodorant, so this may be something you just toss. You could try to use it up, but if you have several half-opened containers of deodorant, it may be time to part with them.
Really old items
You may have old items sitting around your house and you’re unsure if you should part with it or not. Really old items like electronics need to be disposed of properly (don’t just throw them in the trash).
Here are some guidelines for helping you know whether you should throw something away or keep it.
- You no longer use it
- It’s just collecting dust
- It’s outdated
- It has no sentimental value
- It’s not being used
- You no longer have babies at home but are still holding onto baby stuff
- You have too much of one thing
Now that you know of some guidelines for keeping or getting rid of something, what can you get rid of in your house? Remember to donate what you can instead of filling the landfills.
