It’s spring cleaning time again. So that means it’s as good a time as any to try and reduce the amount of stuff in your home. Many homeowners are left wondering how to get rid of clutter fast. Now, most people would say “just throw it out,” but there are several do’s and don’ts to keep in mind for both legal and environmental reasons. Here’s how to get rid of anything.

“Trash talk? Smack talk? This is an American term that makes me laugh. I simply speak the truth. I'm an Irishman.” - Conor McGregor

Books

Too many books? Some would say there's no such thing.
When clutter isn't as inviting as a roomfull of books. Source: Love Chic Living

You can always donate your books! Most local libraries will accept books as donations. If the books are damaged, they can usually still be recycled as paper. And getting rid of possessions like books means that the item will still be enjoyed by someone, and you’ll get the space in your home back. Otherwise there are several other charities that accept book donations. Try one of the following for a tax write-off.

  • Books for Africa
  • Books for Soldiers
  • American Library Association
  • Goodwill
  • Local theater
  • Salvation Army
  • Thrift stores
  • Reading Tree

Baby Gear

You will end up with so much baby stuff over the years, and you can only hand so much of it down
The many different baby items that you'll get over the years. Source: Growing Up

Kids grow up quickly. That’s why you need to know how to get rid of too much stuff. You actually have a few options when it comes to disposing of toys, clothes, and accessories from your toddlers and infants.

Anything under two years of age can generally be resold to a consignment shop. Otherwise the organization called Once Upon a Child will offer a slightly reduced amount of cash. You can also donate nearly anything to local charities or websites. On top of everything else, children’s seats can usually be recycled.

Furniture

Chairs and furniture can also be donated
Old chairs deserve a new home. Source: HGTV

Possibly the most logistically difficult piece on the list, furniture is tough to move around. You may want to think about hiring movers to help ease the process. Otherwise, some newer models or antique types might still be able to be resold.

If your furniture is still in good shape, you may be able to get a few bucks for it. This is especially important if you want to know how to get rid of stuff before moving. If you’re like most homeowners and simply don’t know how much the piece is worth, you can always hire an appraiser.

Gift Cards

Nearly anything can be disposed of properly
What to do with all those extra gift cards. Source: Wired

Not such a big space saver, but definitely worth mentioning. We’ve all received gift cards to places that we were never going to go to anyway. So here’s a life hack to turn those cards into a little bit of cash. Go to either cardpool or cardcash to exchange those cards for something you’ll actually use. While this isn’t quite getting rid of possessions, it’s still helpful to know.

Kitchen Appliances

And even appliances can be safely deposited somewhere
Replace the old with more energy efficient new models. Source: BHG

While it is possible to simply throw out older or broken appliances, be sure to check the local e-waste rules for your area. Otherwise anything electrical that still works can be donated. Broken appliances might be able to be salvaged for parts at a local repair shop. In any case, it’s good to know how to get rid of too much stuff.

Mattresses

Your mattress has seen better days
Try and find out what removal services work best for you. Source: Inspect

Your options when it comes to donating a mattress really depend on the condition of the mattress. Anything old, ripped, stained, or sagging usually won’t be eligible for donation. However if the unit is in good to better condition it could merit the charity to send a truck to your home to move out the mattress. In any case, knowledge is power, and here’s more info on how to get rid of anything.

Paint

Old paint can also be sent away
Read the labels carefully. Source: Artzy Fartzy

Paint can be trickier to get rid of. There are some states that have paint recycling services, so the first bet is to find out if you’re living in one of them. Otherwise, you can donate spare paint to Habitat for Humanity, or to paintcare.org if they’re in your area.

To properly dispose of latex paints, let them dry out, and add kitty litter if necessary. Oil-based paints are considered hazardous material, and need to be handled as such. Call up your local municipality to see what the proper disposal entails.

Still in search of some cleaning tips? Want to get high quality results? Contact a professional to get started.

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In this article: Junk removal Removal company How to get rid of anything Getting rid of possessions Sentimental value
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