Moving might be stressful, but it’s also the chance for a fresh start. Not only are you moving to a new place where you can make new memories, but you can shed some of your old clutter. In fact, given the hassle that moving can be, it’s probably best to go through your belongings and decide what you want to take with you and what’s just weighing you down.
However, it would be reckless to just throw all your old junk in the trash. Not only should you make an effort to recycle whatever you can, but whenever possible, find a solution that’s not throwing things away. Here are a few smart tactics you can employ to rid yourself of your old junk before a move:
Hold a Yard Sale
This is a time-honored tradition, and for good reason. It not only helps you to declutter, but gives you a chance to say goodbye to your neighborhood properly — and the people there. Moving is expensive, and it always helps to have a little extra cash in case of an emergency, which is another common motivation for a yard sale. Today, however, your yard sale doesn’t have to actually be physically located in your yard. There are online marketplaces where you can put your old junk on sale as well.
Drop Off at a Thrift Store
Thrift stores aren’t just for clothes. You can often find used furniture, knick knacks, and even artwork there. This is an easy way to unload your old junk. Most thrift stores have a separate door or bin where you can drop off bags of used goods and drive away, no further commitment. You can even do it on your way to the new place.
Donate to Charity
Some thrift stores are themselves charities and offer all of their profits to causes in the community. However, you may also be able to give the things you no longer need to charity more directly. You could donate old clothes or hygiene products to homeless centers or centers dedicated to protecting women and children. If your kids have outgrown their old toys, you can look for toy drives in your community that would allow you to pass on their favorite dolls and games to less fortunate children. Whatever you’re choosing to shed, you can probably find a charity that can use it.
Pass It On to Family
We’ve all been that fresh 20-something trying to move into our first place with a skin-tight budget. In those cases, we usually take advantage of the aunt or uncle who have an old futon they’re no longer using, or our parents’ decision to buy new cookware and let us have their old pots and pans. Now you’re in a position to be that person. If you have old plates, a couch, pots or pans that you no longer want, why not check if anyone in your family can get use of it? If they don’t have a use for it, they might know someone who does.
However, when you do need to throw away or recycle your old belongings, it helps to have a reliable trash and recycling service. If you’re moving within Brazos Valley, take Brazos Valley Trash Valet & Recycling with you! Our weekly trash pick-up comes with complimentary recycling and always reliable service. Contact us today for more information.
