Where Will My Stuff Go?
Decluttering a home to rid yourself of no longer needed or wanted items is a great way to reduce the number of belongings that have accumulated over time. It is often done in conjunction with a change in lifestyle, and may represent the end of one phase of life and the beginning of another. It also lends itself to a simpler, more streamlined way of life. That goes hand in hand, of course, with being mindful of incoming possessions from that point on.
Decluttering is also a first step in the downsizing process. Knowing that you are moving into smaller quarters almost certainly means letting go of items. The end goal may be different than decluttering without a move, although there still needs to be a plan for where the castoffs will ultimately go. This is a question that comes up over and over again as decluttering and downsizing projects get underway.
I witness great concern with clients who have gathered, collected, stockpiled and stored years and years’ worth of goods. While the decision to let go comes with relief, it is often accompanied by a surprising feeling of stress. ‘Where will my stuff go?’ Generally speaking, no one wants to think that their longtime prized possessions will end up in a landfill, and yet, that often is the prevailing thought about what happens to stuff once it is removed from home. Rest assured there are numerous options that avoid contributions to the landfill.
What to do with Stuff You’re Ready to Part With
DONATE: There are lots of choices here. Nationally there are organizations like Goodwill Industries, Savers, Big Brother Big Sister Foundation and many, many others that collect clothing and household items, each with its own mission and purpose. There are also lots of local non-profit agencies that work with shelters, schools, houses of worship and other organizations to help people in their own communities. Not all offer pick up services, so it’s best to learn about the options available per organization including the schedule and whether a donation or processing fee is suggested.
CONSIGN: Items such as clothing, jewelry, furniture and household goods can be offered to a consignment store for re-selling. In entering an agreement with the consignment store, the seller receives a percentage of the sale price once items are sold. Popular online consignment stores for clothing include The RealReal, Poshmark, and ThreadUp, among a host of others. Community consignment shops are plentiful as well. Items are accepted by providing photos and descriptions in advance or via an appointment, so you will want to be familiar with store policies.
SELL: Selling your goods and belongings directly to a consumer is also a popular way to let go of items and make a few dollars. Lots of online sites exist to help accomplish this goal. Facebook Marketplace, eBay and Etsy are probably the most popular e-commerce platforms. Each is unique in its offerings and guidelines, so again, it’s best to familiarize yourself before choosing which may work best for you.
GIVE AWAY: While this may be the most direct way to discard no longer wanted or needed treasures, it may not be so simple. Did someone say china place settings for twelve or dining room table? It certainly does not hurt to ask friends and family if they would like to have something you are ready to give, but be prepared for a polite no thank you. Hence, the options listed above.
Great strides are also being made in the junk removal industry. Everything from efficient truck routing to waste sorting to employee training are practices that improve outcomes. Many of these businesses create affiliations for delivery with next destinations like charitable donation and recycling centers. As more and more information is learned about the environmentally damaging effects of disposal, the sustainability practices of junk removal companies are increasing. While this is a fee-for-service industry, those with mindful disposal practices can be relied upon for disposing items appropriately.
There are so many ways to discard belongings responsibly and with peace of mind as well. Some methods may be simple and straightforward; others may need more effort, and still others may provide the opportunity to bring in some cash. The choice is yours. No need to wonder, where will my stuff go?