I'll be the first to admit that I'm attached to my things. Even if it's just junk, the memory associated makes it hard for me to let go [1]. What if I miss it when it's gone?
Lately, however, I've been working on breaking through that mindset and getting rid of the items that I rarely use. Rather than just chucking them in the trash [2] without thought, however, I first check to see if they're reusable. If you're interested in decluttering your space too, see what you can give away below. (And check out this list [3] on which charities are accepting what.)
- Books. Once you've read a book, find it a new home for someone else to enjoy.
- Computer products. It's true: you can donate old laptops, keyboards, printers, and more.
- Board games. You could use the space where old board games are collecting dust.
- Clothes. If you're over the sweaters you've had since 2010, toss them in the donation pile.
- Shoes. As long as they aren't too worn or smelly, an unwanted pair of kicks can get some more use.
- Antiques. Some of your antiques may be treasured memorabilia; others may just be causing clutter. No need to keep the latter.
- Jewelry. Jewelry box too full? Give a few pieces away.
- Movies and CDs. If you've transitioned over to Netflix and Spotify, you might not want to keep old movies and CDs around.
- Furniture. As you grow older, your taste in furniture could change. Give pieces you're no longer interested in to charity.
- Winter gear. Gloves, mittens, and hats are fair game.
- Kitchen appliances. Planning to upgrade your kitchen utensils? Give your older appliances more use in another home.
- Electronics. This can include TVs, stereos, headphones, DVD players, and more.
- Food. Canned foods that you don't plan to consume are happily accepted by charities.
- Household appliances. Fans, microwaves, and even washers and dryers may be welcomed by organizations for the needy. Check in advance!