Start your spring cleaning off right this year! Make the most of your time by getting rid of your family’s used clothing, toys and media. Starting with these tips to get rid of item taking up space and make it easier to complete all of your other spring cleaning projects.
Here are a few tips to make these tasks fun and easy for the whole family.
1. Set a goal
Sometimes it’s hard to decide which items you are willing to part with whether it be a childhood toy or that expensive sweater you bought 5 years ago and have never worn. Setting a goal for each member of your family will make it easy to get rid of a significant amount of unnecessary belongings. One way to do this can be to require each member of your family to get rid of a certain number of things. For example, everyone must find 10 articles of used clothing to part with. Another way is to hand each person a paper bag and require everyone to fill ‘er up!
2. Make it fun
Finding fun ways to involve your children in the spring cleaning process can be hard. A great way to sort through their used clothing can be to do a “fashion show.” Allow them to make outfits that they can “model” for you. This will keep your kids busy and happy and you will be able to determine what is too small or too worn out.
3. Transition to digital
Most forms of entertainment these days are accessed electronically through forums such as Netflix, iTunes and Facebook. A great first step to clearing things out is to upload your favorite CDs to a digital music library. From there, you can transfer music to your smartphone, iPod or tablet. This is a safe way to keep your music from being lost or damaged. It will also allow you to get rid of those bulky CDs and cases. You can also scan things like documents (old tax returns, bank statements, etc.) and photos so that you can either get rid of those big boxes or move them to an “out of the way” location such as a storage unit, attic, etc. Another easy task it to sort through DVDs and VHS. Many movies are available for free online and through cable/subscription providers making it easy to clear out the DVD shelf.
4. Pick a cause
A great motivator may be picking a cause or organization that could make use of your used clothing and other unwanted goods. Knowing that others will benefit from your items can make it easier to get rid of things since you know they will be greatly valued and appreciated. Great places to donate your items include homeless shelters and charitable organizations.
The ARC Stores also greatly appreciate the donations we receive whether it is used clothing or a used car. Here is the link to find out how and what you can donate. We accept donations at all three of our locations every day during normal business hours.
Read More Spring Cleaning Like a Pro: Get Rid of Your Used Clothing and More →