We have an entertainment unit sitting in our living room right now. In itself, this is not odd. However, this entertainment unit is sitting backwards in front of our fireplace. The poor thing has officially been declared surplus furniture, and I want it out.
Entertainment units are notoriously difficult items to get rid of. However, I am the getting-rid-of queen, so we shall see how things go. I may offer someone an entertainment unit and $25 if the going gets tough and the unit stays put.
If you need to get rid of old stuff, how do you do it? Here are some places you can try:
T
ry charities. They often take smaller items and pick them up with a truck. If you want to drive to a charity or you live in a smaller town, you can often bring a bag of used items to the charity’s door. You support a good cause and get rid of your old things as well. Just avoid entering the store and buying as much as you dropped off – for now.
Women’s shelters and other service providers often need old household items. Collect your old jackets for homeless shelters in the winter, or offer furniture to women who are moving into a new home. This is not the most effective way to get rid of a lot of items at the same time, but it’s a wonderful way to support people in your community.
Craigslist is a ubiquitous and useful place. Try the free section unless you have something like a baby item that is sought-after and will go quickly. It helps to add a photo.
Freecycle is found in many places. It’s an email list where people post wanted items and offer other items. I find that it is usually more local than Craigslist and the people are more motivated to pick things up.
Don’t underestimate the power of word of mouth and friends and neighbors. Maybe you don’t want that piece of furniture, but your neighbor’s son is moving out and needs all of the furniture he can get. Remember when you first moved out? You were glad to accept free bits and pieces from everyone.
How do you get rid of old stuff?
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