Recycling and Donating
Organizing Challenges Unravelled – Recycling and Donating
There are many ways to keep things out of the landfill. Most people are familiar with recycling in their home. Separating paper, compost, glass and metal. When you start decluttering, you may be surprised how little garbage you have in your home. Many things can be recycled, repurposed and reused by others.
Three plastic trash bins in kitchen cabinet with segregated household garbage – PET bottles, paper and metal cans
Electronic recycling
If you are looking for locations to recycle your computers, TV, printers, fax machines, etc., your local waste management will take them. Some stores like Staples also have a recycling area. Google electronic recycling to find a specialized business in your area. One in my area is Tech-Heads.
Books
If you have books you would like to donate, libraries and used bookstores may take them. Charities have book sales to raise funds. Check with your local correctional institute to see if they have programs dedicated to promoting literacy and creativity. If you have books in a different language, look into cultural clubs. Many have libraries and will welcome gently used books.
Clothing
Clothing can be donated to women’s shelters as well as Salvation Army and Value Village. There is a chain of children’s stores called Once Upon a Child and a teen and young adult store called Plato’s Closet. They are not consignment stores. You bring in your clothes, and they buy them (what they want) on the spot and give you the money right away. There are some consignment stores that will take your clothing to sell. Usually it is a 60 /40 split for the store. You can also contact Little Theatre companies and movie supply companies to see if they are interested in some of your unique pieces. Many charities have thrift stores and will take your donations.
Building Supplies
Habitat for Humanity ReStores will take building supplies. Call ahead to see if they need the items that you wish to donate.
Antique Stores
Some antique stores will take window frames, furniture etc. I have an artist who is looking for antique items to use in her craft business.
Decor Consignment Stores
Google decor stores in your area. You can send them pictures of your decor items, and they will let you know if they are interested. A store in my area is Decor on a Dime and will take some stylish home furnishings on consignment.
Single-Use Batteries
Batteries can be dropped off with your electronics. Many charities have bins for collecting batteries. Some stores like Staples collect batteries.
Please go to www.mindoverclutter.ca and click on the links page for more ideas about recycling and donating good used items. If you have any questions or other great recycling and donating ideas, click on the contact page; I’d love to hear from you.
Julie Stobbe is a Trained Professional Organizer and Lifestyle Organizing Coach who brings happiness to homes and organization to offices, coaching you virtually using Zoom. She has been working with clients since 2006 to provide customized organizing solutions to suit their individual needs and situations. She uses her love of teaching to reduce clutter, in your home, office, mind and time. She guides and supports you to be accountable for your time, to complete projects and to reach your goals. If you’re in a difficult transition Julie can coach you to break-free of emotional clutter constraining you from living life on your terms. Online courses are available to help instruct, coach and support your organizing projects. Get started by downloading Tips for Reorganizing 9 Rooms.
Contact her at julie@mindoverclutter.ca
