Over the course of time, most homes will accumulate a fair share of clutter or debris. Zealous housekeepers may promptly dispose of these items to keep the house neat and clean, but there may be a better way to manage the miscellaneous overflow that fills storage areas or unused space.
Instead of throwing them out for trash pickup, why not recycle? Here are some tips to help you get started:
1. Eliminate trash. Find out which items you have lying around the house that can be collected for recycling. Some may earn money, and others may simply be turned in to be reused another way after processing. Keep an eye on surplus refuse that stacks up in the garage or basement, or perhaps in the trash, and call to inquire which items will be accepted for recycling. You can cut down on your trash bill while helping others with unused items that would otherwise be discarded.
2. Make a little cash. Some things, like aluminum products and cans, newspapers, or glass can earn a little bit of income when you take huge amounts to recycling centers after collecting them over a period of several months. Check the yellow pages to see which centers are located in your area or within driving distance. Keep in mind the actual per-pound rate may change with the economy, but you still may be able to earn some pocket change or more by bundling your clutter for others' use.
3. Do a good deed. Some things like clothing or books can be recycled to help others. Prisons, hospitals, libraries, and schools are eager for donations like books or videos, while homeless or domestic violence shelters welcome these things as well as clothes, shoes, and perhaps dishes or appliances. Don't throw away something just because you're bored with it. Donate it to others who can continue using a disposable gift for years to come.
4. Get a tax receipt. Odds and ends can be given to salvage stores, church sales, or non-profit fund raisers to help make money for needed support. You can benefit by getting a tax receipt that is sure to come in handy at tax filing time. As long as you donate something that is usable, you may be able to get a receipt showing its approximate value. Ask for one if you give away something to an agency that may make money from it.
5. Set a good example. Showing your kids how to recycle used products teaches them the value of protecting our environment. It also helps them build character by avoiding materialistic or commercial tendencies to dispose of things that others may be able to use. Take the kids with you when you drop off a bag of clothing or trade a box of aluminum cans for a handful of coins. They will soon learn the value of redeeming leftover quality in things that they no longer have a need for.
Recycling is a commendable practice that eliminates clutter, helps others, and increases the return on a previous investment. Start looking around today to see what you can give back to society instead of throwing it away.
