She Strengthens

Clearing Out the Clutter: A Guide to Responsible Disposal

As we emerge from the pandemic, it’s time to tackle the accumulated clutter and unwanted items that have taken over our homes. But what to do with items that don’t spark joy but shouldn’t end up in the trash? From hazardous chemicals to bulky furniture, we’ve got you covered.

Think Local First

The most environmentally friendly way to dispose of items that still have life is to sell them locally or donate to organizations that need them. Look for local shelters, prisons, schools, and thrift stores that will gladly take your gently used items off your hands. Online platforms like The Arc, Freecycle, Craigslist, Facebook Marketplace, and NextDoor can also help you connect with buyers or recipients.

Books: A Treasure Trove of Knowledge

Don’t let books collect dust or end up in landfills. Donate them to local nonprofits, libraries, schools, retirement homes, hospitals, or organizations like Better World Books, Operation Paperback, Prison Book Program, and Reader to Reader, Inc. These organizations will ensure your books find a new home and continue to inspire and educate.

Clothing: Give It a Second Chance

According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), over 11 million tons of textile waste ended up in landfills in 2018. You can make a difference by donating gently used clothing to organizations like American Red Cross, Dress for Success, Free the Girls, One Warm Coat, and Soles4Souls. These organizations will redistribute your donations to those in need, reducing waste and supporting local communities.

Bedding and Mattresses: A New Lease on Life

Bedding and mattresses are often difficult to donate due to concerns about bedbugs, but they can be recycled or reused. Organizations like A Bedder World and Bye Bye Mattress offer solutions for recycling and donating these items, keeping them out of landfills and supporting sustainable practices.

Furniture: Find It a New Home

Most furniture can be reused or resold, with profits going to good causes in your neighborhood. Organizations like Furniture Bank Model and Habitat for Humanity ReStore connect donors with those in need, promoting sustainability and community development.

Electronics and Appliances: Responsible Disposal

Many appliances contain harmful chemicals that should stay out of landfills. Donate your used electronics and appliances to organizations like Goodwill, Salvation Army, and Best Buy Electronics Recycling, which ensure responsible disposal and recycling.

Bicycles: One Person’s Trash Is Another’s Treasure

Don’t let your old bike collect dust. Organizations like International Bicycle Fund offer programs for donating children’s bikes and bike recycling, promoting sustainable transportation and community development.

Cars and Car Parts: A Valuable Donation

Donate your car or car parts to organizations like Wheels for Wishes and Vehicles for Veterans, which support charitable causes and provide valuable resources to those in need.

Holiday Lights: Spread the Cheer

Even holiday lights can be donated or recycled. Organizations like Holiday LEDs Christmas Light Recycling Program accept working or broken lights, offering a coupon in exchange for future discounts on purchases.

Bulky Items: Professional Pickup Services

For items that can’t be donated, professional pickup services like 1-800-Got-Junk, LoadUp, and Responsible Appliance Disposal (RAD) Programs offer eco-friendly disposal solutions.

Toxic Household Items: Proper Disposal

Items like batteries, fuel canisters, light bulbs, cleaning products, fertilizers, paint, smoke detectors, and mercury thermometers contain hazardous materials that require special disposal. Follow EPA guidelines and search for local recycling programs to ensure responsible disposal.

By taking the time to properly dispose of unwanted items, you’re not only decluttering your space but also supporting sustainable practices and giving back to your community.