Is anyone else alarmed that the average person produces 4.5 pounds of garbage each day? Because that seems like a lot! Thankfully, much of it is recyclable.
But getting rid of waste isn't always as simple as it seems. Especially if you've struggled with chronic disorganization for most of your life. That's a lot of stuff, a lot of work, and a lot of decisions to make.
It's not always easy to figure out whether you should sell, donate, or just toss. To help you create a system that works for you, keep reading. We'll help you figure out what your best options are.
Selling
There are myriad benefits to selling items. Making money is top on that list. Here are a few dos and don'ts for selling your stuff successfully:
Don't expect to recoup the full or even most of the price you paid
Do research - where the best place to sell is and how much money you can expect to get for the item
Do expect it to take time to sell
Do find a place to store everything until sold that's not in your way
Keep in mind, some people will try to waste your time or rip you off. Trust your instincts, do your research, and set boundaries to keep yourself safe when dealing with individuals or companies.
When Selling Isn't A Good Option For You
Keep in mind, when you bought your clothes, it probably was to enjoy them until you no longer did, rather than as an income-generating process. So don't sweat it if:
Having strangers come by stresses you out
You don't want to deal with mailing items out
The money isn't a big deal
You just don't want to take the time or use the energy on this
Also, not everything has value. Especially if you don't tend to buy high-end items.
Other Selling Options
If you still want to sell your items, you still have a few options left such as:
Solution: Hire someone else to do the selling for you.
Downside: Expect them to take up to 50% of the profits.
Solution: Sell your items at your local consignment shop.
Downside: These shops usually are very picky about what they'll take and when.
Solution: Have a garage/yard sale.
Downside: It's a lot of work and there are a few upfront costs.
Otherwise, your other option is to donate your items.
Donating
Of course, with donating, you're getting to help people, just not for a profit. Here are the do's and don'ts to donating successfully:
Do research what donation sites are accepting
Do research to see which charity aligns with your core values
Do wash items before donating
Do toss out items that are really garbage
Do research into what tax benefits you may receive from donating your clothes
Do not try to donate your used underwear. Why? Would you want to buy used underwear? Recycle your underwear instead.
Donating mattresses can be tricky thanks to bedbugs. Click here to find out where you can donate or sell them.
Recycling Your Clothes (For Money & Love of Planet)
More companies are offering to recycle your clothes. Some are even willing to give you a cash incentive to do so!
However, not all companies are as transparent as others. Please do your research to make sure your clothes end up as promised.
Get Help Collecting, Sorting, & Organizing Your Wardrobe
Deciding which items to keep and which to part with isn't an easy decision. If you're struggling with a chronically disorganized closet and a wardrobe you seem to only wear a fraction of, it's time to learn some new skills.
Working with a professional organizer will teach you how to create systems that work and how to make more impactful, confident decisions in your life. Click here to schedule your first session today.