Has spring sprung you into a cleaning frenzy? The warmer weather can inspire us to air out the basement, look through our summer clothes, and deal with that recycling piling up in the garage.
While you’re in cleanup mode, it can be tempting to toss everything in a bag and take it to that magical place called “Away.”
With a little more care and consideration, you may find the secret to a little extra cash, a friend’s heart and a gentler footprint.
As a general rule, if you haven’t used something in the past year, then you won’t use it in the next. If you need another helpful filter, Marie Kondo, the minimizing legend of our time, advises letting go of anything that doesn’t “spark joy.” Following this guidance may leave you with boxes full of otherwise usable items, but no longer of any value to you personally.
Take comfort knowing some of the truly valuable treasures might be sold. These days, social media provides free local forums to help you send them to new homes with ease. Ask a friend to help you with photos and uploads, if you’re not as tech savvy.
What doesn’t seem salable can be given away to friends and family, or to a local thrift store. Be conscious when you gift items, though, as it’s not always the case that your trash is another’s treasure.
Make sure items are in decent repair and are clean. Minor scuffs and wear can be overlooked by the bargain hunter, but something altogether broken needs to go to the recycling box or the landfill.
Before sending anything to an untimely grave, however, make sure it’s something that can’t be fixed.
Does it merely need batteries, or a new zipper? Would a paint job vastly improve its resale value? Could you use it if it were repaired?
If so, then maybe it’s not time to let it go quite yet. Call on friends and family to brainstorm possible uses, or simply to ask if they want it before you let it go.
Once all options are exhausted, then recycling bits and bobs should be the next responsible step. Have a box for all recyclables near you as you clean and clear, and sort them out later. Ensure they are clean, separated, and not wishful recyclables, rather than actual ones. Check in with depot staff when you aren’t sure.
Small appliances, electronics, empty paint cans, pens, cell phones, light bulbs and even cork wine tops can be recycled in qathet Regional District at various locations. Check out the Waste Wise Guide at LetsTalkTrash.ca for details on recycling unusual items.
This year, enjoy your spring cleaning with a clear conscience.
Let’s Talk Trash is qathet Regional District’s waste-reduction education program.
