Declutter Without Guilt!!

So, picture this: You open up your closet and it is stuffed full of items that you probably haven’t worn in years. Surprise!! You don’t even notice it anymore, and the functionality of your closet has gone down the tube. There are ways of getting rid of your old stuff, that won’t leave you feeling guilty. What to do?

Are You a Mini-Hoarder?

Well first of all, you must face the fact that you may be a bit of a hoarder, because there is no way you’re wearing the same style as 30 years ago! Unless you’re going to a costume party, that is. Just remember this, “Been there, done that!” For the record, there’s a little bit of hoarder in all of us….we just have to keep it in check. 🙂

The way I do it is, if I have not worn that item in the last 12 months then the item goes in a bag for delivery to the local used clothing store. There are stores that consign vintage clothing, designer jeans, and just about any good quality clothing that you may have.

Sometimes I feel weird about seeing people wearing my stuff, so I try to repurpose it, where I won’t see it again (Just an fyi), like in the next town’s donation centres.

Linen Closet

Now check your linen closet. Seriously, how many sets of sheets do you need. I ran a house cleaning company for over 20 years, so I know what’s out there, a bunch of linen closets, bursting at the seams (no pun intended).

I keep two sets of good quality (with no pills) sheet sets for each bed, and that’s it, but I do have extra pillow cases. Again repurpose what you don’t need, very easily. Drop off at the local churches, penny wise wherever your items could be of use.

Now check your towels. How old are they? How many of them do you actually use? Did you know that most veterinary clinics can use all your older towels for all sorts of things, and would probably appreciate them? It makes you feel better when you know your discarded items are receiving a new life from someone you don’t even know, but who can really get good use out of them.

Also, don’t forget to check your coats, boots and shoes. If you’re not going to wear them, someone else will. Shoes and coats are among the most needed items for underprivileged people, and the homeless. Especially in the Canadian climate.

Recycle – Repurpose – Reuse

There are so many “wins” in adopting this mentality.

Firstly, you are cleaning up and making your home a better place to live, and an easier house to sell.

Secondly, you are helping the less fortunate (this is good for your soul and much appreciated by those who are being helped).

Lastly, you are doing your part for our planet. Mother Earth needs our help, and this is one great way of helping out. Future generations will have to deal with the situations that we create today.

Your closets, in your home, are great places to start!