When you’ve been living in a home for several years, clutter starts to accumulate. So much so, that the average American household harbors over 300,000 different items. That’s a daunting thought when you’re planning a move.
The best time to scale down on the clutter and get a fresh start is while you’re packing your boxes for your move. Numerous charities that will gratefully accept your hand-me-downs and other useful unwanted items.
Here’s where to drop off donations while de-cluttering your home.
Where to Drop Off Donations of Clothing
According to recent statistics, there are around 5.3 billion items of clothing that never get worn hanging in women’s closets across the USA. That’s a surprising statistic considering that there are so many needy people who could benefit from these garments.
Instead of putting all your clothing into a box and taking it with you to your new home, take a little extra time to sort through it. Set aside items that don’t wear anymore. If you haven’t worn it in over a year, it’s time to let it go.
Don’t throw anything out. The Council for Textile Recycling and The American Textile Recycling Service recycles textiles, so they don’t end up clogging up landfills.
The best place to donate clothes that are still wearable is at one of the Goodwill or the Salvation Army collection points. Other organizations like the Vietnam Veterans of America will pick up your used clothing at your home.
Donating Furniture
If you’re downsizing to a smaller house, chances are you’re going to have some excess furniture. Numerous organizations will gladly give your unwanted items a new home.
Get in touch with one of the following organizations, and they’ll make good use of any furniture you can’t take along with you:
- The Furniture Bank Association of America
- Donation Town
- Habitat for Humanity ReStore
Places to Donate Old Tools
Most charities that run thrift stores will accept anything they can resell to raise funds for their cause, including tools, kitchen items, and toys.
Habitat for Humanity also accepts donations of tools that they use in their building projects. Get in touch with Pickup Please on their website, and they’ll arrange to collect any goods in working order. All proceeds to the Vietnam Veterans of America.
The Joy of Giving
Donating unwanted items benefits more than the recipients. It also means you’ll have fewer things to pack and transport, and less to unpack on the other side.
You’ll also feel better about getting rid of things when you know they’re benefitting a good cause. If you’re going to donate items, you’ll also have to start packing sooner, saving you from last-minute stress down the line.
More Tips on Moving
From where to drop off donations to tips for settling into your new home, our blog has lots of useful information for a stress-free move.Keep browsing for more information or get in touch for assistance with your relocation.